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Summary: Not a love story - But - A story of love!
Review: Paulo Coelho really takes us over his different moods and aspects of writing. This in fact to be very honest is no way compared to his best, "Alchemist" but yes, it definitely holds a good place in my book shelf.It is a story about a woman who comes over to see her old childhood friend and then is carried by the life and the mysterious moves of spirituality. She could have hardly imagined that she is falling in love with her childhood friend. Initially she does not even believe that she can ever fall in love with her friend but then finally, unconsciously, but very fervently she does falls in love with him. The story moves so closely with all the ins and outs of the life and yet keeps us abreast of the reality and originality, which Paulo Coelho holds in his mind for the book. Her friend who is now a spiritual follower and works to serve other people, though definitely loves her - but that is not what his final destination was? Those were not the commitments he made with life? Apart from all that, he still loves her. Pilar (the central character - "The Woman") is now in the dilemma, which is encircling her every moment. She does not know how to approach him, she does not know whether he will say yes or not. She does not know whether even if says yes will he be able to forget his old passion and love her fully, she does not know whether taking her would be the right choice for the man she loved or not. Now to unravel the story, all you have to do is read this book. As far as my comments go, I found this book interesting. Dealing very closely with our thoughts, confusions, dilemmas, mysteries, spirituality, and the decision making. Happy Reading!
Rating: 
Summary: Good intro to Coelho
Review: I'm not sure if this is a romance book or a religious book, but I'm sure that it's very good.
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Summary: New age psuedo-wisdom - not for me
Review: I fail to understand the appeal of Paulo Coelho if By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept is typical of his work. The book purports to be a love story between a seminarian and an old friend - a college student - in the context of doubt, search for truth, following one's true calling etc. etc. etc. The issues raised and their resolutions are trite and presented in a manner that gives one no confidence in the author. Is he writing for money or fame? out of a misconception of his own wisdom? I suspect that when I first was out of college and reading psuedo-Tibetan drivel, I would have enjoyed this book; so I do understand that there is a place for this book. That place is not on my bookshelf.
Rating: 
Summary: Great book!
Review: An incredibly romantic book. Short and sweet but it will certainly have you weeping. A great love story by a great writer. Full of spiritual tones with an unexpected ending that leaves you thinking and feeling good.
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Summary: I wept
Review: I wept after I read this book the first time, and the second, and the third. It is not only a beautiful love story, but about finding a right path in life, and about believing. Every time I read a good book, I mark it, and but it in my quoting book - well - I think there was a quote on every page I read. And if the silly answer of what book I have read that have changed my life would be - it must have been this book. I really recommend it! You will not be disappointed.
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Summary: Delivering a good yarn is simple for Paulo Coelho
Review: From the very first page of the book, it is not hard to see why you can't keep the book down. What makes the pages turn as the minutes tick over relays to the simple, yet beautiful method of story-telling that Mr. Coelho takes the reader into. It is a story of passion and courage, of religion and the feminine face of God, of patience and listening to one's inner voice. That mixed with the inner conflicts that humans face to make crucial choices is what you will encounter as you read his words. If you've been ignoring that inner voice inside you for too long, or want to get a clear picture of what it's all about, then this book is for you. And you'll see why.
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Summary: Not for me, but read on . . .
Review: I found the book very much on the "preachy" side. I like the idea of using story to share one's spiritual beliefs with the world; but for it to work well, the concepts need to be subtle. On the other hand, Christians, particularly Catholics, who like to see concepts of their faith put to story, this could be very rewarding. Despite my misgivings, I do see a beauty in the author's story-telling style. I would like to someday read other works of his.
Rating:
Summary: A Modern Enchantment
Review: Paulo Coelho writes another great story (one should read "The Alchemist" first) about love, God and the struggle between the two. When one leaves their home, family and childhood love for a spiritual journey, then sends word to his childhood sweetheart, things begin to tense up; human love for another, or spiritual love for God. A great story and well written, Coelho knows how to tell a story simply and clearly. Highly reccomended!
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Summary: A book that you can feel
Review: This book was the first of Mr. Coelho's books I read. He is an excellant writer and his words form poetic stories of the spirit of one's self. I found Pilar's search for within and ultimate true love very moving. I couldn't put the book down. I finished it in about three hours and wanted to start it again as soon as I finished. I have read all of Mr. Coelho's books that are in English, By the River Piedra I sat down and Wept and The Valkries have definitly been my favorite. I can't wait for the next one!
Rating:
Summary: By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
Review: The love story is romantic.. The Title of the book is so romantic as well! Although I adore Paulo Choelho's work and wisdom but I didn't quiet find that in this book.. I felt like there were some parts missing, there were things I didn't understand... The book is not really special if you would talk about a very good and wise writer such as Paulo.. I would suggest "The Pilgrimage" & "Veronika Decides To Die".. ofcourse after you read the "Alchemist"
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