Traveling with Pomegranates is a memoir written by acclaimed novelist Sue Monk Kidd and her daughter, Ann Kidd Taylor. It spans a few years and encompasses their travels to Greece and Paris, as well as their time at home in South Carolina.

The text alternates between the two women, giving both the chance to express their feelings and emotions about what is going on. Often, the reader has the pleasure of viewing the same event from two different perspectives. This provides insight into each woman, helping the reader to understand them as we embark on their journeys.

This is a book of self-reflection and thought - it isn’t an exciting, event-filled book. Instead, it is quiet and contemplative as each woman deals with her own crises throughout. Since the memoir spans so much time, they aren’t always the same problems but vary according to time and age. Still, they all stem from the same insecurities, the same sources of unhappiness. This gives the book a coherent quality, as Sue and Ann’s respective issues tie the book together.

At times, Traveling with Pomegranates can be self-indulgent and repetitive. When the authors discuss the same issues over and over again, it seems like they are more interested in self-pity than in facing their problems. But these instances are brief and happily do not detract from the book as a whole too much.

The beautiful writing and amazing travelogues are really what make this volume worth reading and elevate it from a simple mother/daughter memoir. They describe the places they visited in such vivid detail that it’s difficult not to close your eyes and imagine you are there with them. The soothing prose makes this calming and easy to read.

Though Traveling with Pomegranates has its flaws, it ultimately is a wonderful mother/daughter memoir. The dual narration helps the reader understand both perspectives. Additionally, the spiritual nature of the book will appeal to many, including those searching for their own faith.

• The Mermaid Chair