21. You are the Altar. Not the Sacrifice.

The Book of Longings is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Ana, a young woman from a wealthy family in Sepphoris, Galilee. Ana is rebellious, ambitious, and intellectually curious, engaging in secret scholarly pursuits and writing about neglected and silenced women. Her life changes when she meets the eighteen-year-old Jesus, and they marry despite societal expectations. The novel follows their marriage, filled with love, conflict, humor, and pathos, set against the backdrop of the Roman occupation of Israel. Ana's journey is marked by her struggles to express herself and realize her potential in a patriarchal society, supported by strong women like her aunt Yaltha and friend Tabitha. The book is grounded in meticulous historical research and offers a reverential yet humanizing portrayal of Jesus' life.

In 'Eat, Pray, Love', Elizabeth Gilbert chronicles her journey as she leaves behind her outwardly successful but inwardly unfulfilling life in the United States. The book is divided into three parts, each set in a different country: Italy, where she seeks pleasure and indulges in the local culture; India, where she delves into spiritual practices and meditation; and Bali, Indonesia, where she aims to find a balance between worldly enjoyment and divine transcendence. The memoir is a personal and introspective account of Gilbert's struggles, growth, and self-discovery during her travels.

In 'Big Magic', Elizabeth Gilbert delves into the mysteries of creativity, encouraging readers to live more creative and fulfilling lives. The book is divided into six parts: Courage, Enchantment, Permission, Persistence, Trust, and Divinity. Gilbert argues that creativity is an essential part of human nature and that it requires courage to accept and overcome fears. She emphasizes the importance of persistence, trust in the creative process, and the need to separate creativity from the pressure of making a living. Through personal anecdotes and insights from other artists, Gilbert demystifies the creative process and inspires readers to pursue their passions with curiosity rather than fear.