The Only Guide to Pinto Beans You’ll Ever Need

by Brian Mastroianni
The Only Guide to Pinto Beans You’ll Ever Need cover
Good Books rating 4.62
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  • ID: 6364
  • Added: 2025-11-14
  • Updated: 2025-11-14
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
facebook.com · Unknown · 2025-11-14
brilliant 5.00

The Only Guide to Pinto Beans You’ll Ever Need is a timeless account of Dervla Murphy's 1963 cycling journey from Ireland to India. The reviewer praises Murphy's resilience, insights, and the book's enduring relevance, highlighting her exceptional hospitality experiences and love for countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan. The reviewer also notes the unique advantages of traveling on an Irish passport and Murphy's profound observations about people.

The Only Guide to Pinto Beans You’ll Ever Need is a remarkable book that chronicles Dervla Murphy's extraordinary journey from Ireland to India by bicycle in 1963. The reviewer is deeply impressed by Murphy's resilience and her ability to capture the essence of the places and people she encounters. The book is a product of its time, yet its insights remain acutely relevant today. Murphy's experiences, from sleeping on the ground to dealing with lice and encountering wolves, are recounted with a sense of adventure and humility. Her love for countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan is particularly noteworthy, offering a glimpse into a different era. The reviewer also appreciates Murphy's keen observations about travelers and the unique advantages of holding an Irish passport. This book is not just a travelogue but a testament to human spirit and cultural understanding. The reviewer cannot praise it enough and highly recommends it to anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the world.

Quick quotes

    Today I met a twenty-five-year-old American boy in the Museum who was typical of a certain category of youngster — European, Commonwealth and American — I’ve met along the route. To them, travel is more a _going away from_ rather than a _going towards_, and they seem empty and unhappy and bewildered and pathetically anxious for companionship, yet are afraid to commit themselves to any ideal or cause or another individual.

    I dare you to read this book and not feel inspired, and amazed by Murphy and I have no doubt that you will enjoy reading this book as much as I did.

    In fact, I cannot praise this book enough. Get yourself a copy — you won’t regret it.

loseit.com · Unknown · 2025-11-14
informative 4.50

The review highlights the nutritional benefits of pinto beans, emphasizing their high protein content and versatility in various dishes. It also discusses the different ways to prepare and incorporate pinto beans into a healthy diet.

Pinto beans are celebrated for their impressive protein content, making them a valuable addition to any diet. They are not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile, suitable for a wide range of culinary applications. The review delves into the various methods of preparing pinto beans, from traditional recipes to modern twists, ensuring that readers can enjoy their health benefits in delicious ways. Additionally, the article touches on the environmental and economic advantages of including pinto beans in one's diet, making a strong case for their regular consumption.

Quick quotes

    Pinto beans are a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with protein and essential nutrients.

    They are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads.

    Incorporating pinto beans into your diet is not only beneficial for your health but also for the environment.

loseit.com · Unknown · 2025-11-14
fascinating 4.50

The Only Guide to Pinto Beans You’ll Ever Need is a beautifully written and gripping account of a cycling adventure that paints a gorgeous portrait of the landscapes and peoples of regions like Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The author's love for travel and her detailed descriptions make this a classic travel writing piece.

The Only Guide to Pinto Beans You’ll Ever Need is a standout in the genre of cycling adventure books. Unlike many cycling narratives that focus heavily on the cycling aspect, this book is a travelogue at heart. The author, Dervla Murphy, provides exquisite descriptions of the landscapes and people she encounters during her journey from Ireland to India. Her bicycle, affectionately named 'Roz,' serves as her mode of transport, but the real focus is on the cultural and personal experiences she has along the way. Murphy's sense of humor and deep respect for the people and cultures she encounters shine through her writing. The book is filled with dramatic situations, including instances where she had to use her gun for protection. Despite the dangers, Murphy's love for travel and her admiration for the people she meets are evident. The descriptions of the stunning landscapes and the hospitality she experiences are particularly moving, especially when contrasted with the current state of some of the regions she visited. Although some of the language used may be considered outdated, it is clear that Murphy's intent is not racist but rather one of deep respect and admiration. This book is a thoughtful, detailed, and fascinating read that captures the essence of travel and adventure.

Quick quotes

    This is the part of Afghanistan I was most eager to see, but in my wildest imaginings I never thought any landscape could be so magnificent. If I am murdered en route it will have been well worth while!

    I have read many books about cycling adventures and I find that many tend to focus on the cycling more than the experience of travelling because the author is more a cyclist than a travel writer.

    This is classic travel writing at its best. It is thoughtful, detailed and fascinating.

loseit.com · Unknown · 2025-11-04
compelling 4.50

Full Tilt is an adventurous and introspective journey through Ireland to India, filled with vivid descriptions and personal reflections. The book offers a unique perspective on travel and self-discovery, making it a compelling read for those interested in exploration and personal growth.

Full Tilt by Dervla Murphy is a captivating account of a solo bicycle journey from Ireland to India. The narrative is rich with detailed observations of the landscapes, cultures, and people encountered along the way. Murphy's writing style is both engaging and introspective, providing a deep dive into her personal experiences and the challenges she faces. The book is not just a travelogue but also a journey of self-discovery, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in adventure and personal growth. The vivid descriptions and personal reflections make Full Tilt a standout in the genre of travel literature.

Quick quotes

    The journey is as much about the destination as it is about the personal growth and self-discovery.

    Murphy's vivid descriptions bring the landscapes and cultures to life, making the reader feel as if they are part of the adventure.

    The book is a testament to the power of solo travel and the introspection it can inspire.

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