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The Signature of All Things

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The Signature of All Things

By: Elizabeth Gilbert
Narrated by: Juliet Stevenson
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About this listen

Bloomsbury presents The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert, read by Juliet Stevenson.

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SHORTLISTED FOR THE WELLCOME BOOK PRIZE
LONGLISTED FOR THE BAILEYS WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION
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'Quite simply one of the best novels I have read in years' – Elizabeth Day, Observer

'Charming . . . extensively researched, compellingly readable' – Jane Shilling, Daily Telegraph

'Sumptuous . . . Gilbert's prose is by turns flinty, funny, and incandescent' – New Yorker
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A captivating story of botany, exploration and desire, by the multimillion copy bestselling author of Eat Pray Love

Everything about life intrigues Alma Whittaker. Her passion for botany leads her far from home, from London to Peru to Tahiti, in pursuit of that rare specimen: knowledge. But as her careful studies draw her deeper into the mysteries of evolution, she meets the man who she will come to love – whose perspective, radically different from her own, will transform the way she understands the world.

Radiating with all the heart, soul and earthiness as its unforgettable heroine, The Signature of All Things is a captivating celebration of the workings of this world, and the mechanisms behind all life.
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'My own 500-pager of choice? Elizabeth Gilbert’s The Signature of All Things . . . just read it . . . Hugely enjoyable' – Viv Groskop, Observer Books of the Year
'The story of Alma Whittaker’s journey of discovery has irresistible momentum' – Helen Dunmore, The Times
'Gilbert has written the novel of a lifetime' – O, The Oprah Magazine
'Filled with dazzling storytelling' – Susie Boyt, Financial Times
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©2013 Elizabeth Gilbert (P)2013 Penguin Audio, a member of Penguin Group US
Fiction Historical Fiction Literary Fiction Women's Fiction Heartfelt Thought-Provoking
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What listeners say about The Signature of All Things

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I didn't want it to end

it was a really long book and I couldn't predict how it would go, I have never read anything like this in my life. I was intrigued, moved, surprised znd really grateful to have read it. its huge, it's mesmerising znd I would recommend it to anyone looking for depth, meaning, strangeness just wonderful reading xxx

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Master piece

Absolutely stunning book, page turner from beginning to end - don’t read in advance about what the book is about, just plunge into it and let yourself go into and through this journey of discovery (and self- discovery)… one of the best reads ever, if possible only raised up further high by the fantastic interpretation of Juliet Stevenson

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Most enjoyable

Surprises galore in this book which covers a wide variety of topics and life experiences, superbly read by Juliette Stevenson although her Dutch (which I am reliable informed is a tricky language for the British) could do with a little help.

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glad I stuck with it!

what a beautifully written book. I love Elizabeth Gilbert and although this book was not something I would have normally gone for, I'm glad I stuck with it. I just couldn't stop listening to it. it took a few chapters to get into it but once I did, I was not disappointed. Excellent narration too!

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A book I'll never forget

Exceptionally beautiful. The best description of an orgasm and the love of the natural world that I can imagine. It won't be for everyone and I suspect more suitable for mature readers and deep thinkers. But if you come across this book at the right time it will make a lasting connection.

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Surprising coming from Eat, Pray, Love

I was astonished at the skillful writing of Gilbert. I found Eat Pray Love entertaining but quite fluffy.
This is a long read, sometimes frustrating as we come to identify with the main character, and want her to act differently. It has some magical qualities I got lost in, and there were a number of things to learn from.
Juliet Stevenson is as always a superb reader and a pleasure to listen to

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Wonderful story of life

I liked everything about this compelling story. The historic references were great and Juliet Stevenson brought the characters to life.

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A woman beyond her time and place

Loved the characterisation. Alma grew solidly as the novel progressed. The story sprawled and rambled while remaining true to its time and place with fascinating insights into the coming together of different civilisations . And so respectful of who individuals might be within their time and place. And the reading is seductive.

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Wow wow wow

Like other reviewers, I had no idea where the story was going. What a journey. Just press play and let the story take you on its waves. Absolutely fabulous.

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the title IS the book

the book embraces everything. I will keep looking for the solution to the Prudence problem. excellent reader as well. Thank you!

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3 people found this helpful