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Meet Me at Luke's: Lessons in Life and Love from Gilmore Girls
From music and movies to relationships, Gilmore Girls taught us all so much throughout the years. Now, take a walk down Stars Hollow’s memory lane and reflect on the show’s profound impact with author Kristine Eckart, founder of the Gilmore Book Club, in this beautifully illustrated guide to the beloved show.
In Meet Me at Luke’s, you can expect to find a treasure trove of insights, anecdotes, and life lessons drawn from the show's rich tapestry of relationships, small-town charm, and the enduring bond between a mother and daughter. With a warm stroll through the characters' lives and loves, the book explores how their world can enrich our own.
Meet Me at Luke’s not only provides a chance to relive your favorite moments but also invites you to delve deeper into the show's enduring appeal. It offers a space for reflection, sparking conversations about how the lessons learned in Stars Hollow can be applied to our own lives. Using events from all seven seasons, Kristine Ekhart will delve into discovering our purpose, creating a home, finding love, and so much more.
The book also A steady stream of pop culture references, drawing from movies and music, history and literature Undying affection for the townspeople of Stars Hollow, from the lusty dance teacher Miss Patty to the job-juggling late-bloomer Kirk Special applause for the incredible guest stars over the years, from Christiane Amanpour to Norman Mailer A roundup of the most quotable lines (“You jump, I jump, Jack.” “We got us a Pippi virgin.” “Copper boom!”)
In Meet Me at Luke’s, you can expect to find a treasure trove of insights, anecdotes, and life lessons drawn from the show's rich tapestry of relationships, small-town charm, and the enduring bond between a mother and daughter. With a warm stroll through the characters' lives and loves, the book explores how their world can enrich our own.
Meet Me at Luke’s not only provides a chance to relive your favorite moments but also invites you to delve deeper into the show's enduring appeal. It offers a space for reflection, sparking conversations about how the lessons learned in Stars Hollow can be applied to our own lives. Using events from all seven seasons, Kristine Ekhart will delve into discovering our purpose, creating a home, finding love, and so much more.
The book also A steady stream of pop culture references, drawing from movies and music, history and literature Undying affection for the townspeople of Stars Hollow, from the lusty dance teacher Miss Patty to the job-juggling late-bloomer Kirk Special applause for the incredible guest stars over the years, from Christiane Amanpour to Norman Mailer A roundup of the most quotable lines (“You jump, I jump, Jack.” “We got us a Pippi virgin.” “Copper boom!”)
- GenresNonfictionAudiobook
224 pages, Hardcover
Published October 7, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
June 10, 2025
A sweet keepsake for devotees of the show. There is little here that die-hard Gilmore Girls fans don't already know, but it is a thoroughly charming collection with whimsical illustrations and all the magic and whimsy of Stars Hollow.
August 31, 2025
Thank you, Andrews McMeel Publishing, for sending me over an ARC of this book.
The book easily incorporates the cozy charms that we all know and love. This book is filled with little insights, anecdotes, and lessons pulled from the show. I liked that it offered a space for your own reflection. Overall, it is just an average book. More so geared for those die-hard fans.
If you or anyone you know fits in that category, this would be a perfect gift. Otherwise, if you fall in the latter group this may be a pass or more so a book for your coffee table that you might read here or there.
Pub Date Oct 07 2025
The book easily incorporates the cozy charms that we all know and love. This book is filled with little insights, anecdotes, and lessons pulled from the show. I liked that it offered a space for your own reflection. Overall, it is just an average book. More so geared for those die-hard fans.
If you or anyone you know fits in that category, this would be a perfect gift. Otherwise, if you fall in the latter group this may be a pass or more so a book for your coffee table that you might read here or there.
Pub Date Oct 07 2025
July 2, 2025
I received a free copy of, Meet Me at Luke's by Kristine Eckart, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is a good book for fans of the show, Gilmore Girls, but no new information. I enjoyed this read, like I enjoyed the show.
June 20, 2025
Gilmore Girls is one of my favorite tvshows and like the author, it's also one of those shows that I keep on rewatching more than once because it comforts me.
I enjoyed how the author talked about it and described the various lessons that the show taught us, because they are true. There is a reason GG is still a beloved show today and gaining new fans, and it's because it is unlike other comedies. So it was about time someone wrote a book about it.
I don't think the book covered everything I'd wanted it to cover, but what it covered was of my liking. The core was the Gilmore Girls, Rory and Lorelai but also Emily, and all their friends and family who are an essential part of their lives and of Stars Hollow and make it memorable. Most of the information is familiar to die-hard fans like me, but it was nice rereading it again.
I loved the illustrations! They were beautiful. I loved that the linehearts were blue just like Rory and Lorelai's house.
I also liked that the author inserted movie/book lists, itinerary suggestions and recipes. I can say that this book was true to its name because it explained the GG philosophy pretty well and tried to give suggestions to people who admire and aspire to have a Gilmouresque lifestyle.
I believe that GG fans would enjoy this title. :)
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC of this book.
I enjoyed how the author talked about it and described the various lessons that the show taught us, because they are true. There is a reason GG is still a beloved show today and gaining new fans, and it's because it is unlike other comedies. So it was about time someone wrote a book about it.
I don't think the book covered everything I'd wanted it to cover, but what it covered was of my liking. The core was the Gilmore Girls, Rory and Lorelai but also Emily, and all their friends and family who are an essential part of their lives and of Stars Hollow and make it memorable. Most of the information is familiar to die-hard fans like me, but it was nice rereading it again.
I loved the illustrations! They were beautiful. I loved that the linehearts were blue just like Rory and Lorelai's house.
I also liked that the author inserted movie/book lists, itinerary suggestions and recipes. I can say that this book was true to its name because it explained the GG philosophy pretty well and tried to give suggestions to people who admire and aspire to have a Gilmouresque lifestyle.
I believe that GG fans would enjoy this title. :)
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC of this book.
June 20, 2025
I was drawn to this book since I'm a die-hard fan of Gilmore Girls, it is my favorite show and I believe that my mom and I have a similar relationship to Lorelai and Rory's.
Meet Me at Luke's is a celebration of the show, in particular, it is an analysis of important themes that shaped the narrative of the series. It also presents reflections, advices, amazing illustrations, pop culture references and other fun things.
Really enjoyed it, it's perfect for the fans of the show who want to relive the aesthetic and feelings that this tv series gives or even for people who are interested in watching it and want to know more beforehand.
Thank you Kristine Eckart, Andrews McMeel Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC
Meet Me at Luke's is a celebration of the show, in particular, it is an analysis of important themes that shaped the narrative of the series. It also presents reflections, advices, amazing illustrations, pop culture references and other fun things.
Really enjoyed it, it's perfect for the fans of the show who want to relive the aesthetic and feelings that this tv series gives or even for people who are interested in watching it and want to know more beforehand.
Thank you Kristine Eckart, Andrews McMeel Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC
August 4, 2025
This is a great book for any fan of the Gilmore Girls. I especially love the illustrations.
Do want to comment on the Rory Gilmore book challenge, as the book list is included in here. Read what interests you, not some random list. It would be great to be familiar with most of these works, but you can just read a wiki page on them. Don't force yourself to read a book. Maybe if you had an eternity to read every single book ever written. Then, sure.
Anyway, would recommend this.
Do want to comment on the Rory Gilmore book challenge, as the book list is included in here. Read what interests you, not some random list. It would be great to be familiar with most of these works, but you can just read a wiki page on them. Don't force yourself to read a book. Maybe if you had an eternity to read every single book ever written. Then, sure.
Anyway, would recommend this.
July 2, 2025
Great look about our favourtie show!
With in depth views on so many topics supported by pop culture references just like the show. Loved that the author added a few recipes, trip ideas and of course the book and movie lists for those wanting the challenge! The illustrations are gorgeous and the perfect touch.
Thank you Netgalley for the eArc.
With in depth views on so many topics supported by pop culture references just like the show. Loved that the author added a few recipes, trip ideas and of course the book and movie lists for those wanting the challenge! The illustrations are gorgeous and the perfect touch.
Thank you Netgalley for the eArc.
October 1, 2025
3.5 ⭐- 🏡✨ This was a light and enjoyable read that captured the charm of the Gilmore Girls world along with beautiful illustrations, reminiscence and general insights. The author's love for the show and its impact were presented along with her personal experiences and takeaways.
☕🍂 There were references of episodes, recipes, books, music, travel, behind the scenes info, and other pop culture media from the show (very on brand with Gilmore Girls) which were fun. Personally though - the pop culture, media and literary references were never a part of what drew me to the show. I read through some that I found interesting, but I skimmed over these sections for the most part. I was recently re-watching some episodes as well, so it was also fresh in my mind.
☕🍂 I found this book more geared towards people who may be looking for a strong community connect with other Gilmore Girls fans. I think it can also act as a guide for those who are relatively new to Gilmore Girls, or can be a trip down memory lane for those coming back to the show after a while. It certainly captures the charm of the character's, relationships and events.
☕🍂 For me, the heart of the show is in its diversity of character's, personalities, relationships, family and range of life experiences explored throughout. Watching it at different points in your life, you can find yourself relating to different character's or seeing things from a different perspective. The best part of the show is that all the character's are complex and flawed, which feels realistic to how personal growth + dealing with life & relationships are often messy ordeals.
☕🍂 The author displays a more deeper immersion and personal connect with the show, as it has had a greater degree of influence in her active life. I have watched the show 2-3 times, and it's a familiar comfort watch - but I'm not so invested in getting into the club or culture of Gilmore Girls itself.
☕🍂 Personally, my observations, takeaways and relatability are quite different due to my eastern cultural upbringing and values. There is a universality of certain experiences and human emotions, that are wonderfully explored on the show which I connect with in parts. But I can't say I look to these character's as direct role models or representative of advice, aspirations and experiences that I would want to assimilate. For the most part, I enjoy Gilmore Girls as a story that's a display of the multi-faceted nature of relationships, experiences and varied personalities from a human behavioral standpoint.
Overall, it was a quick and fun read connected with a show that I enjoy, and one that has captured generations of audiences!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complementary e-arc of this story. All opinions expressed here are my own.
☕🍂 There were references of episodes, recipes, books, music, travel, behind the scenes info, and other pop culture media from the show (very on brand with Gilmore Girls) which were fun. Personally though - the pop culture, media and literary references were never a part of what drew me to the show. I read through some that I found interesting, but I skimmed over these sections for the most part. I was recently re-watching some episodes as well, so it was also fresh in my mind.
☕🍂 I found this book more geared towards people who may be looking for a strong community connect with other Gilmore Girls fans. I think it can also act as a guide for those who are relatively new to Gilmore Girls, or can be a trip down memory lane for those coming back to the show after a while. It certainly captures the charm of the character's, relationships and events.
☕🍂 For me, the heart of the show is in its diversity of character's, personalities, relationships, family and range of life experiences explored throughout. Watching it at different points in your life, you can find yourself relating to different character's or seeing things from a different perspective. The best part of the show is that all the character's are complex and flawed, which feels realistic to how personal growth + dealing with life & relationships are often messy ordeals.
☕🍂 The author displays a more deeper immersion and personal connect with the show, as it has had a greater degree of influence in her active life. I have watched the show 2-3 times, and it's a familiar comfort watch - but I'm not so invested in getting into the club or culture of Gilmore Girls itself.
☕🍂 Personally, my observations, takeaways and relatability are quite different due to my eastern cultural upbringing and values. There is a universality of certain experiences and human emotions, that are wonderfully explored on the show which I connect with in parts. But I can't say I look to these character's as direct role models or representative of advice, aspirations and experiences that I would want to assimilate. For the most part, I enjoy Gilmore Girls as a story that's a display of the multi-faceted nature of relationships, experiences and varied personalities from a human behavioral standpoint.
Overall, it was a quick and fun read connected with a show that I enjoy, and one that has captured generations of audiences!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complementary e-arc of this story. All opinions expressed here are my own.
January 10, 2026
In true Gilmore Girls fashion, my mom got me this book for Christmas. We both watched the show together for the first time back in 2017 and have been smelling snow since. So getting this book from her was perfect!
As someone who is a little lost in life and what the future holds, the irony of my first book in 2026 to be life lessons from the Gilmore is not lost on me. I was reminded of so many things that I truly needed to hear: the value of community, going after what you want, and of course, reading. I didn’t read very much last year(for the first time ever) and I have officially been Rory Gilmore’d, ready to read so much that I won’t notice anything happening around me.
Now. Was this book incredibly thrilling and page turning? No, but that wasn’t its purpose. If that’s what you’re looking for then this book isn’t for you. Its purpose is to delight Gilmore fans and it does just that. In all honesty the essay format wasn’t exactly my favorite and since I don’t know Kristine, I had a difficult time “bonding” with her as an author, but I still enjoyed her stories and takes on things. And like I said earlier, I was reminded of, delighted, and encouraged by the lessons of the Gilmores, so it filled its purpose for me too.
As someone who is a little lost in life and what the future holds, the irony of my first book in 2026 to be life lessons from the Gilmore is not lost on me. I was reminded of so many things that I truly needed to hear: the value of community, going after what you want, and of course, reading. I didn’t read very much last year(for the first time ever) and I have officially been Rory Gilmore’d, ready to read so much that I won’t notice anything happening around me.
Now. Was this book incredibly thrilling and page turning? No, but that wasn’t its purpose. If that’s what you’re looking for then this book isn’t for you. Its purpose is to delight Gilmore fans and it does just that. In all honesty the essay format wasn’t exactly my favorite and since I don’t know Kristine, I had a difficult time “bonding” with her as an author, but I still enjoyed her stories and takes on things. And like I said earlier, I was reminded of, delighted, and encouraged by the lessons of the Gilmores, so it filled its purpose for me too.
October 4, 2025
Wow this book has so much great information. Shows, movies and music (QR codes includes) mentioned on the show. Fun behind the scenes info. There’s also a list of the books that Rory read and that list goes on for pages and pages.
If you like baking there are also recipes, one of them being Luke’s pumpkin pancakes.
If you’ve liked The Gilmore girls since it came out and want something to add to your experience, pick this book up and you won’t regret it.
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc.
If you like baking there are also recipes, one of them being Luke’s pumpkin pancakes.
If you’ve liked The Gilmore girls since it came out and want something to add to your experience, pick this book up and you won’t regret it.
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc.
August 23, 2025
If youre a gilmore girls fan like me this book is a must!!! I think ive watched gilmore girls like 6 times and i still read things i didnt know or didnt understand. If you want to understand more about the friendships and about lorelais iconic sayings this is a muuuust my friends, its so informative
July 8, 2025
This is a book of essays exploring themes from the show and the author's personal experiences with them. It's a fun little book for super fans and, as a bonus, it has the cutest illustrations! I was so impressed by the author's vast knowledge of the show and ability to make as many cultural references as the characters! A lot of these types of books don't give the vibe of being written by a superfan, but this one does. Kristine is a Gilmore pro! I really enjoyed my time spent with it.
July 5, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my digital copy in exchange for an honest review. I requested this one because I am a huge fan of Gilmore Girls...I have to say I wasn't disappointed. There was a lot I could have done without but, for the most part, it was all just very cool to read. I really liked that she kept track of the books and movies within Gilmore Girls...I immediately went and found the list on my computer. I won't read them all just because there are some things I would be forcing myself to read and I just don't do that anymore. There were also little cartoon drawings throughout the book, which I really liked. All in all, this was a great read for any fan.
October 22, 2025
This book is a trip down memory lane. The author uses themes from the 00’s television series Gilmore Girls to look back on her own life and convey lessons to the reader. I found the author’s personal stories kind of uninteresting and her advice kind of…obvious? When it came to diving into the themes of the show, there really wasn’t anything new or surprising there for the seasoned Gilmore fan either.
I feel bad rating this only 2 stars, because the author clearly put time and effort into this book and it does not feel like a money-grab, but rather a passionate fan project. But it’s just not that interesting to read about a person you don’t know and who really doesn’t have any extraordinary experiences to share.
Things I did like: All the literary references and the fact that the audiobook is perfectly narrated by Keiko Agena (Lane Kim). Though I fear her voicing the book is a big draw for fans (it was for me), which then only leads to a let-down, because the book doesn’t measure up.
I feel bad rating this only 2 stars, because the author clearly put time and effort into this book and it does not feel like a money-grab, but rather a passionate fan project. But it’s just not that interesting to read about a person you don’t know and who really doesn’t have any extraordinary experiences to share.
Things I did like: All the literary references and the fact that the audiobook is perfectly narrated by Keiko Agena (Lane Kim). Though I fear her voicing the book is a big draw for fans (it was for me), which then only leads to a let-down, because the book doesn’t measure up.
August 23, 2025
The ultimate companion to have alongside you with a “coffee coffee coffee “ and a binge watching Session of Gilmore girls. I absolutely loved this book if your “an Autumn “ and a fan of the show this books a must have to add to your collection it has recipes, book recommendations and playlists all from the show . Perfect to cosy up with . If you’re a die hard fan of the show like me you will love all the little extras and behind the scenes stuff complete with deleted scenes and exquisite illustrations. Thoroughly enjoyed it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC.
This was a great tribute to Gilmore Girls and Gilmore Girls "culture." Eckart includes so many moments from the show and weaves them in between her own personal journey.
The illustrations and unique lists and references to books/movies in the series were the best of the book!
Perhaps those familiar with Eckart might enjoy the 2nd narrative of her own personal life and experiences.
This was a great tribute to Gilmore Girls and Gilmore Girls "culture." Eckart includes so many moments from the show and weaves them in between her own personal journey.
The illustrations and unique lists and references to books/movies in the series were the best of the book!
Perhaps those familiar with Eckart might enjoy the 2nd narrative of her own personal life and experiences.
October 31, 2025
This book felt like chatting with a friend over a cup of coffee at none other than Luke’s. Everything I want and more in celebrating 25 years of our Gilmore Girls.
I definitely recommend this any of the following:
☕️to the HUGE Gilmore Girls fans out there
☕️anyone who has seen the entirety of the show AND year in the life
☕️anyone who wants more Gilmore Girls (you’re always in the right place if you feel that way too!)
☕️and especially for anyone who has seen it so much you analyze and study it. Which I very much am there 😂
Highly recommend reading it on audiobook since Keiko Agena (Lane) narrates it. Hearing her voice felt like you are walking the streets of Stars Hollow carrying on the conversation and life lessons with the ultimate coziness and comfort. I cannot wait to get the physical book and add it to my Gilmore Girls shelf!
The life lessons were so beautifully done too. Just like the show can be for so many ages, this felt that way too. The book spans from the shows beginning to keeping the conversation of Gilmore Girls going today. Some of the inspiring words made me tear up at times and motivation near the end of chapters of calling the reader “Gilmore” made it even more personal. And all of the Rory Gilmore book challenge was such a motivation as I’m working on starting that journey!
Cannot wait to see what Kristine writes next!!!! If she writes it, I will follow ✍🏼
I definitely recommend this any of the following:
☕️to the HUGE Gilmore Girls fans out there
☕️anyone who has seen the entirety of the show AND year in the life
☕️anyone who wants more Gilmore Girls (you’re always in the right place if you feel that way too!)
☕️and especially for anyone who has seen it so much you analyze and study it. Which I very much am there 😂
Highly recommend reading it on audiobook since Keiko Agena (Lane) narrates it. Hearing her voice felt like you are walking the streets of Stars Hollow carrying on the conversation and life lessons with the ultimate coziness and comfort. I cannot wait to get the physical book and add it to my Gilmore Girls shelf!
The life lessons were so beautifully done too. Just like the show can be for so many ages, this felt that way too. The book spans from the shows beginning to keeping the conversation of Gilmore Girls going today. Some of the inspiring words made me tear up at times and motivation near the end of chapters of calling the reader “Gilmore” made it even more personal. And all of the Rory Gilmore book challenge was such a motivation as I’m working on starting that journey!
Cannot wait to see what Kristine writes next!!!! If she writes it, I will follow ✍🏼
December 25, 2025
This book is a straight-to-the-veins shot of nostalgia for any Gilmore Girls fan. It was so fun reliving the details of the show and relating it back to life lessons. That's not really how I watched the show but... maybe it's time for a rewatch (again) to see it through a different lens! Also, the illustrations are AMAZING. I sincerely hope they are available for purchase as a postcard or something. This book would make a great gift for any Gilmore Girls fan in your life. 10/10
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November 22, 2025✨ “I live in two worlds. One is a world of books.” ✨
Reading Meet Me at Luke’s felt like stepping back into Stars Hollow—coffee in hand, smile ready, and heart open to every quirky moment. Kristine Eckart captures the essence of Gilmore Girls not just as a show, but as a lived experience—one that has shaped so many of us through its humor, warmth, and lessons about love, family, and belonging.
What makes this book special is that it doesn’t simply revisit favorite episodes—it invites reflection. Eckart weaves together anecdotes, pop culture nods, and thoughtful insights that remind us why Lorelai and Rory’s bond continues to resonate. Themes like finding purpose, creating a home, and navigating relationships made me pause and consider how those lessons echo in my own life.
Her affection for Stars Hollow’s townspeople, her celebration of guest stars, and her roundup of unforgettable quotes all add to the magic. From Miss Patty’s flamboyant flair to Kirk’s endless odd jobs, Eckart honors the characters who made the town feel like home. And really—what Gilmore fan doesn’t still smile at “I love coffee in an IV” ☕ or “You jump, I jump, Jack”?
For me, Meet Me at Luke’s is more than a guide to Gilmore Girls—it’s a bridge between Stars Hollow and the rhythms of my own family life. My daughter and I have watched the series countless times, and each return feels like stepping back into a familiar home. Reading Eckart’s book brought that same comfort, but with an added layer of reflection that deepened our bond. It reminded me that stories can shape us, that fictional places can feel like real communities, and that lessons tucked into witty dialogue and small-town charm can inspire us in everyday life.
The family bond at the heart of Gilmore Girls is beautifully mirrored in the way this book invites us to reflect on our own connections. Lorelai and Rory’s relationship reminds me of the joy I feel sharing this series with my daughter—the laughter we share quoting lines like “I live in two worlds, one is a world of books” or “Where you lead, I will follow” has become part of our family’s story.
What struck me most was how Eckart highlights the emotional literacy embedded in the show—the way characters navigate love, loss, friendship, and identity with humor and honesty. Those themes have sparked countless conversations between my daughter and me, helping us name feelings, talk about resilience, and celebrate the quirks that make us who we are. In that sense, this book isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about nurturing emotional growth through stories we love.
Ultimately, Meet Me at Luke’s is a love letter to Gilmore Girls—and an invitation to carry its spirit of connection, resilience, and joy into our own world. It’s a reminder that stories can be more than entertainment; they can be tools for emotional growth, family bonding, and building a sense of home together. 💙
GilmoreGirls #MeetMeAtLukes #CopperBoom #StarsHollow #Bookstagram #MotherDaughterReads #EmotionalLiteracy
Reading Meet Me at Luke’s felt like stepping back into Stars Hollow—coffee in hand, smile ready, and heart open to every quirky moment. Kristine Eckart captures the essence of Gilmore Girls not just as a show, but as a lived experience—one that has shaped so many of us through its humor, warmth, and lessons about love, family, and belonging.
What makes this book special is that it doesn’t simply revisit favorite episodes—it invites reflection. Eckart weaves together anecdotes, pop culture nods, and thoughtful insights that remind us why Lorelai and Rory’s bond continues to resonate. Themes like finding purpose, creating a home, and navigating relationships made me pause and consider how those lessons echo in my own life.
Her affection for Stars Hollow’s townspeople, her celebration of guest stars, and her roundup of unforgettable quotes all add to the magic. From Miss Patty’s flamboyant flair to Kirk’s endless odd jobs, Eckart honors the characters who made the town feel like home. And really—what Gilmore fan doesn’t still smile at “I love coffee in an IV” ☕ or “You jump, I jump, Jack”?
For me, Meet Me at Luke’s is more than a guide to Gilmore Girls—it’s a bridge between Stars Hollow and the rhythms of my own family life. My daughter and I have watched the series countless times, and each return feels like stepping back into a familiar home. Reading Eckart’s book brought that same comfort, but with an added layer of reflection that deepened our bond. It reminded me that stories can shape us, that fictional places can feel like real communities, and that lessons tucked into witty dialogue and small-town charm can inspire us in everyday life.
The family bond at the heart of Gilmore Girls is beautifully mirrored in the way this book invites us to reflect on our own connections. Lorelai and Rory’s relationship reminds me of the joy I feel sharing this series with my daughter—the laughter we share quoting lines like “I live in two worlds, one is a world of books” or “Where you lead, I will follow” has become part of our family’s story.
What struck me most was how Eckart highlights the emotional literacy embedded in the show—the way characters navigate love, loss, friendship, and identity with humor and honesty. Those themes have sparked countless conversations between my daughter and me, helping us name feelings, talk about resilience, and celebrate the quirks that make us who we are. In that sense, this book isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about nurturing emotional growth through stories we love.
Ultimately, Meet Me at Luke’s is a love letter to Gilmore Girls—and an invitation to carry its spirit of connection, resilience, and joy into our own world. It’s a reminder that stories can be more than entertainment; they can be tools for emotional growth, family bonding, and building a sense of home together. 💙
GilmoreGirls #MeetMeAtLukes #CopperBoom #StarsHollow #Bookstagram #MotherDaughterReads #EmotionalLiteracy
August 31, 2025
A good read for a Gilmore Girl’s fan. This book has insightful analysis about the mother daughter relationships that underpins Gilmore Girls. This book also asks pertinent questions about just what Rory learnt from all her reading of fiction and if perhaps she missed some key lessons that she would have done well to have paid more attention to that might have helped her avoid some of her bigger blunders in her life along the way. The behind the scenes snippets that were included were particularly interesting reading as a fan of the show and contained a lot of information that was new to me despite me having read and listened to cast interviews and read Lauren Graham’s books previously. However the book spends too long discussing the author’s own purpose through chronic health issues in the purpose section which whilst interesting as a fellow spoonie is a bit off-topic for a book about Gilmore Girls I think. Even though I do understand the book is also about how to apply the lessons of the TV show to life, I feel she spent too long writing about the specifics of her own situation which won’t be relevant to a lot of readers, before getting back to how to help find your purpose if you’re still looking for your purpose. Similarly, as a reader interested in learning more about Gilmore Girls I didn’t really need to read a section explaining why she wrote this book and what challenges she faced to stay true to her writing self on her writing course. This also felt like an unnecessary tangent in the book to be honest, given the topic is supposed to be about lessons learnt from Gilmore Girls and I don’t see how this directly relates to that from this section. The author made an interesting point about the fact that only 25% of the 400 books referenced on Gilmore Girls were written by women and only 2 were written by black authors, showing a lack of diversity in Rory’s reading, which the author realised meant she needed to read more widely after she’d initially used the Rory Gilmore Reading Challenge to get out of her genre comfort zone. Going back to the author’s earlier point about how Rory processed the books she read and how she perhaps didn’t learn everything she could have from them, I wonder if Rory’s perception of the world would have been challenged more in her reading if she’d read more diversely and if this would have influenced how she chose to live her life on the show. Probably the lack of diverse titles included in the cultural references was a sign of the times the show originally came out in as the cultural references would have been shaped by what books were popular or well known as classic at the time and there wasn’t really an awareness of the need for marginalised authors, own voices and POC authors to be actively promoted in publishing so white, male authors tended to more easily get publicity for their books. The illustrations are beautiful and charming… definitely inkeeping with the cosy feeling of Gilmore Girls.
November 11, 2025
Fans of The Gilmore Girls have spent countless hours in Stars Hollow with Lorelai and Rory, laughing, crying, and trying to keep up with the cultural references. Kristine Eckart, writer and creator of the Gilmore Book Club Blog, has crafted a love letter to the show that changed her life, as well as the lives of so many other fans.
Meet Me at Luke’s is a compendium of facts about the show, like a reminder of the major plot points, references to the books and movies that were referenced, and and a list of the top BFF moments throughout the show’s run. But it’s also essays about what we learned from these characters and how those lessons resonate in our daily lives, with several personal stories of Eckart.
There are chapters about that all-important mother-daughter relationship, about finances, about travel, and (of course) about books and reading. She doesn’t back away from the difficult topics of finding your calling or wondering if you have a soulmate. But she also talks about the power of music, the importance of building a community for yourself, and getting out of your own way.
If you’re a new viewer of The Gilmore Girls, this book can help you process your thoughts and feelings about the show and its quirks. There are spoilers throughout, but they are marked, so you can skip over those pages until you’re ready. If you a longtime fan, this book will remind you of your favorite moments and warm your heart with the things you learned in Stars Hollow about love, life, friendship, family, pop culture, and coffee.
I really like Meet Me at Luke’s for its warmth and humanity, the same reasons I liked the show when I first saw it. Eckart’s essays are filled with her personal stories, observations from the show, and lists of connections to people, places, books, and movies. She even includes a couple of recipes. Fans of Eckart’s blog and lovers of The Gilmore Girls will appreciate all the work that has gone into this book and can connect with these stories and their own memories of the show in a new way.
A copy of Meet Me at Luke’s was provided by Andrews McMeel Publishing through the Amazon Vine program, with many thanks, but the opinions are mine.
Meet Me at Luke’s is a compendium of facts about the show, like a reminder of the major plot points, references to the books and movies that were referenced, and and a list of the top BFF moments throughout the show’s run. But it’s also essays about what we learned from these characters and how those lessons resonate in our daily lives, with several personal stories of Eckart.
There are chapters about that all-important mother-daughter relationship, about finances, about travel, and (of course) about books and reading. She doesn’t back away from the difficult topics of finding your calling or wondering if you have a soulmate. But she also talks about the power of music, the importance of building a community for yourself, and getting out of your own way.
If you’re a new viewer of The Gilmore Girls, this book can help you process your thoughts and feelings about the show and its quirks. There are spoilers throughout, but they are marked, so you can skip over those pages until you’re ready. If you a longtime fan, this book will remind you of your favorite moments and warm your heart with the things you learned in Stars Hollow about love, life, friendship, family, pop culture, and coffee.
I really like Meet Me at Luke’s for its warmth and humanity, the same reasons I liked the show when I first saw it. Eckart’s essays are filled with her personal stories, observations from the show, and lists of connections to people, places, books, and movies. She even includes a couple of recipes. Fans of Eckart’s blog and lovers of The Gilmore Girls will appreciate all the work that has gone into this book and can connect with these stories and their own memories of the show in a new way.
A copy of Meet Me at Luke’s was provided by Andrews McMeel Publishing through the Amazon Vine program, with many thanks, but the opinions are mine.
July 21, 2025
One of my all-time favorite shows is Gilmore Girls. It premiered in 2000. While Meet Me at Luke’s: Lessons in Life and Love from Gilmore Girls by Kristine Eckart is an unofficial book, I suspect she intended to have this out to celebrate the anniversary.
Eckart’s knowledge of the show is impressive. She references details even the most ardent fan might not have caught. While her references to books and movies referenced in the show is impressive, inserting them into the writing regularly felt forced. Sometimes she wanted to make the reference as much as she wanted to make her point.
Each chapter ended with some fun extras. There’s history, deleted scenes, recipes, trivia, or behind the scenes extras that are fun. I enjoyed those more than the main writing. I did appreciate the use of QRcodes to link to various lists. I wish there was a way to make them more aesthetically appealing.
I didn’t dislike it but I was just very meh. The writing was fine but forgettable. Eckart inserts a little of herself but it’s either too little or not enough.
I kept wondering what the point of this book was. Who is it for? What is it trying to do? Is it just a love letter(s) to the show or is it trying to be more? Why right now? It’s releasing in October but feels like something that might be good for a recent graduate.
This was only available in the NetGalley reader which is mediocre on a good day. It’s been especially buggy lately so this did not improve my reading experience. I think the full color design is a contributing factor to that choice.
If you have an avid Gilmore Girls fan in your life, they’ll probably like it. Otherwise, skip it. Thanks NetGalley and Andrews McMeel. I wish I liked it more. 3/5
Eckart’s knowledge of the show is impressive. She references details even the most ardent fan might not have caught. While her references to books and movies referenced in the show is impressive, inserting them into the writing regularly felt forced. Sometimes she wanted to make the reference as much as she wanted to make her point.
Each chapter ended with some fun extras. There’s history, deleted scenes, recipes, trivia, or behind the scenes extras that are fun. I enjoyed those more than the main writing. I did appreciate the use of QRcodes to link to various lists. I wish there was a way to make them more aesthetically appealing.
I didn’t dislike it but I was just very meh. The writing was fine but forgettable. Eckart inserts a little of herself but it’s either too little or not enough.
I kept wondering what the point of this book was. Who is it for? What is it trying to do? Is it just a love letter(s) to the show or is it trying to be more? Why right now? It’s releasing in October but feels like something that might be good for a recent graduate.
This was only available in the NetGalley reader which is mediocre on a good day. It’s been especially buggy lately so this did not improve my reading experience. I think the full color design is a contributing factor to that choice.
If you have an avid Gilmore Girls fan in your life, they’ll probably like it. Otherwise, skip it. Thanks NetGalley and Andrews McMeel. I wish I liked it more. 3/5
December 2, 2025
In 2024, my word of the year was “Gilmore,” which started because I had lots of Gilmore Girls events throughout the year. However, very quickly (and I mean VERY quickly), this became a lot more. I decided that I also needed to identify ways I can implement the ways of the Gilmore’s into my life and growth. And in 2024, I entered a new career, rediscovered my love for reading (and other passions), grew new/old friendships, embraced my quirks, and realized I found my version of Luke. After reading this book, I wish I had had this when I started the year. Though I still loved and enjoyed every single part of it. The references and art (please tell me I can buy prints somewhere) were all perfectly timed and thoughtfully included. Kristine, you crushed it! I could not have enjoyed the reading more.
All of this is my long-winded way of saying: if you want to have a Gilmore Year, Meet Me at Luke’s is your guide. Kristine breaks down all the ways Gilmore Girls has influenced us and infused it with her own experiences and all the things we love from the show. There's a chapter for everything, so even if you aren’t looking to experience the whole enchilada, you can take a piece at a time. Either way you experience this work of art, you are bound to feel the cozy Gilmore vibes and feel like you have a personal Lorelai giving you her advice and wisdom.
I had the pleasure of meeting Kristine Eckart at a Gilmore Girls festival, as well as getting to know her, and I can confirm she is truly lovely (and a true Gilmore as well)! After the whole year of waiting to read this, I can say it was well worth the wait!
All of this is my long-winded way of saying: if you want to have a Gilmore Year, Meet Me at Luke’s is your guide. Kristine breaks down all the ways Gilmore Girls has influenced us and infused it with her own experiences and all the things we love from the show. There's a chapter for everything, so even if you aren’t looking to experience the whole enchilada, you can take a piece at a time. Either way you experience this work of art, you are bound to feel the cozy Gilmore vibes and feel like you have a personal Lorelai giving you her advice and wisdom.
I had the pleasure of meeting Kristine Eckart at a Gilmore Girls festival, as well as getting to know her, and I can confirm she is truly lovely (and a true Gilmore as well)! After the whole year of waiting to read this, I can say it was well worth the wait!
February 8, 2026
Meet Me at Luke’s: Lessons in Life and Love from Gilmore Girls by Kristine Eckart is an absolute masterpiece of a companion book and a must-have for any true fan of the series. As the founder of the Gilmore Book Club, Eckart brings a unique, passionate perspective that shines brightly on every single page. This beautifully illustrated guide offers far more than just a trip down memory lane; it is a heartfelt and profound exploration of the show’s enduring legacy and its deep impact on our lives.
What makes this book truly special is how it effortlessly weaves insightful life lessons into the rich tapestry of the show's history. From discovering our purpose and creating a sense of home to navigating the complex waters of love and relationships, the reflections are both meaningful and incredibly relatable. Taking a warm stroll through the characters' lives and loves feels like catching up with old friends, offering a perfect blend of comfort and enlightenment.
I was absolutely delighted by the chapters dedicated to the eccentric townspeople we all adore, from the irrepressible Miss Patty to the hilarious Kirk, as well as the well-deserved spotlight on the show's incredible guest stars. The roundup of the most quotable lines had me laughing out loud. Filled with a steady stream of pop culture references and undying affection, Meet Me at Luke’s invites you to reflect on how the magic of Stars Hollow can enrich your own world. It is a delightful, insightful, and essential read that will make you want to grab a coffee and revisit the series immediately.
What makes this book truly special is how it effortlessly weaves insightful life lessons into the rich tapestry of the show's history. From discovering our purpose and creating a sense of home to navigating the complex waters of love and relationships, the reflections are both meaningful and incredibly relatable. Taking a warm stroll through the characters' lives and loves feels like catching up with old friends, offering a perfect blend of comfort and enlightenment.
I was absolutely delighted by the chapters dedicated to the eccentric townspeople we all adore, from the irrepressible Miss Patty to the hilarious Kirk, as well as the well-deserved spotlight on the show's incredible guest stars. The roundup of the most quotable lines had me laughing out loud. Filled with a steady stream of pop culture references and undying affection, Meet Me at Luke’s invites you to reflect on how the magic of Stars Hollow can enrich your own world. It is a delightful, insightful, and essential read that will make you want to grab a coffee and revisit the series immediately.
July 16, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy of Meet Me at Lukes for review.
I was interested in reading this book due to the love my sister and I have always had for the Gilmore Girls tv show. We had watched the episodes after school and it became an autumn comfort show for us to rewatch throughout the years.
I absolutely loved the artwork throughout the book. It brings the details of Gilmore Girls and Starshollow to life and the small details are so charming. I also liked how there were so many bookish references as Rory is known to be an avid reader.
This book is structured with each chapter header having a life lesson that Gilmore Girls has shown through the tv show and uses scenes from the show as well as the authors experiences to expand upon the lessons. I thought that this was an interesting set up and also enjoyed how quotes from the show were used throughout each chapter as examples. The author also includes lists of places to go while traveling, music, and quotes from celebrities.
I also enjoyed how this book has details of how the show came to be and information about the creator Amy Sherman-Palladino which I thought was a nice addition because it brings a bit of background knowledge to the reader.
I would recommend this book to any life long Gilmore Girl fan.
I was interested in reading this book due to the love my sister and I have always had for the Gilmore Girls tv show. We had watched the episodes after school and it became an autumn comfort show for us to rewatch throughout the years.
I absolutely loved the artwork throughout the book. It brings the details of Gilmore Girls and Starshollow to life and the small details are so charming. I also liked how there were so many bookish references as Rory is known to be an avid reader.
This book is structured with each chapter header having a life lesson that Gilmore Girls has shown through the tv show and uses scenes from the show as well as the authors experiences to expand upon the lessons. I thought that this was an interesting set up and also enjoyed how quotes from the show were used throughout each chapter as examples. The author also includes lists of places to go while traveling, music, and quotes from celebrities.
I also enjoyed how this book has details of how the show came to be and information about the creator Amy Sherman-Palladino which I thought was a nice addition because it brings a bit of background knowledge to the reader.
I would recommend this book to any life long Gilmore Girl fan.
December 28, 2025
☕️I would like to extend an enormous thank you to the author, Kristine Eckart, Andrew McMeel Publishing, and NetGalley for the privilege of being able to check out a digital copy of Meet Me at Luke's! I will share my review to Goodreads, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble upon release, as well as share my review to Bookstagram ✨
☕️As a lifelong Gilmore Girls fan, and having watched the show several times over, this book captured much of the magic and charm of the show. It's easy to tell that the author is a book lover and also has a deep appreciation and love for Gilmore Girls and its characters. The illustrations are so so cute, and would make amazing art. Even the drawings of the characters seemed to capture their personalities perfectly. I laughed out loud at the picture with Kirk in the window peering down at the others - it was perfect! As the characters are really the heart of the show, it's important that the book would be able to express that. I think Meet Me at Luke's definitely does! The map of Stars Hollow is amazing and I'd love a print! This book is a perfect gift for any superfan. It has several essays about the show that felt really relatable and let me stroll down memory lane.
☕️Oy, with the poodles already! Copper boom! And may you always be a vicious trollop!
5/5 stars!
☕️As a lifelong Gilmore Girls fan, and having watched the show several times over, this book captured much of the magic and charm of the show. It's easy to tell that the author is a book lover and also has a deep appreciation and love for Gilmore Girls and its characters. The illustrations are so so cute, and would make amazing art. Even the drawings of the characters seemed to capture their personalities perfectly. I laughed out loud at the picture with Kirk in the window peering down at the others - it was perfect! As the characters are really the heart of the show, it's important that the book would be able to express that. I think Meet Me at Luke's definitely does! The map of Stars Hollow is amazing and I'd love a print! This book is a perfect gift for any superfan. It has several essays about the show that felt really relatable and let me stroll down memory lane.
☕️Oy, with the poodles already! Copper boom! And may you always be a vicious trollop!
5/5 stars!
August 10, 2025
If you’ve ever wished you could step back into Stars Hollow and linger a little longer, Meet Me at Luke’s is your invitation. Kristine Eckart, founder of the Gilmore Book Club, has crafted a heartfelt tribute to the show that shaped a generation of pop culture lovers and mother-daughter duos.
This book is more than nostalgia. It’s a thoughtful reflection on the life lessons tucked into seven seasons of fast-talking, coffee-drinking charm. Eckart doesn’t just recap the show; she illuminates how its themes of purpose, belonging, and love have resonated in her own life and invites readers to do the same.
Fans will delight in the steady stream of pop culture references, shout-outs to Stars Hollow’s quirkiest residents, and a roundup of iconic quotes that still make us smile (“Copper boom!”). It’s a warm, personal, and insightful read that feels like catching up with old friends.
If you love Gilmore Girls, you’ll love this book. It’s a cozy companion for longtime fans and a reminder that sometimes the best wisdom comes from a fictional town with a diner at its heart.
Thank you Andrews McMeel Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book is more than nostalgia. It’s a thoughtful reflection on the life lessons tucked into seven seasons of fast-talking, coffee-drinking charm. Eckart doesn’t just recap the show; she illuminates how its themes of purpose, belonging, and love have resonated in her own life and invites readers to do the same.
Fans will delight in the steady stream of pop culture references, shout-outs to Stars Hollow’s quirkiest residents, and a roundup of iconic quotes that still make us smile (“Copper boom!”). It’s a warm, personal, and insightful read that feels like catching up with old friends.
If you love Gilmore Girls, you’ll love this book. It’s a cozy companion for longtime fans and a reminder that sometimes the best wisdom comes from a fictional town with a diner at its heart.
Thank you Andrews McMeel Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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October 10, 2025Thank you Netgalley and the author for a free copy of the e-book in exchange for an honest review.
Because this is more of a non-fiction book, I will not be giving a star rating but still sharing some of my thoughts!
Think of this book as a self-help book, but make it Gilmore Girls… which is honestly the best way to get my attention. As a very avid Gilmore Girls fan, this book was just what I needed. It gave the balance of advice and life lessons that had a perfect amount of callbacks to specific scenes and quotes from the beloved show. This book made me feel nostalgic, both in a happy and sad way that I could also relate to in my personal life. I also enjoyed the fun facts and little tid bits of information bringing the lesson and Gilmore Girls lore full circle.
I would also like to note that even though I received the e-book, I did download the audiobook version of this book because I wanted to hear Keiko Agena’s narration. While I loved hearing her voice and overall the narration was good, I wish being part of this phenomenon she would’ve had a bit more emotion while reading through the text. I know it wasn’t her personal story to tell but she felt detached from this world.
Because this is more of a non-fiction book, I will not be giving a star rating but still sharing some of my thoughts!
Think of this book as a self-help book, but make it Gilmore Girls… which is honestly the best way to get my attention. As a very avid Gilmore Girls fan, this book was just what I needed. It gave the balance of advice and life lessons that had a perfect amount of callbacks to specific scenes and quotes from the beloved show. This book made me feel nostalgic, both in a happy and sad way that I could also relate to in my personal life. I also enjoyed the fun facts and little tid bits of information bringing the lesson and Gilmore Girls lore full circle.
I would also like to note that even though I received the e-book, I did download the audiobook version of this book because I wanted to hear Keiko Agena’s narration. While I loved hearing her voice and overall the narration was good, I wish being part of this phenomenon she would’ve had a bit more emotion while reading through the text. I know it wasn’t her personal story to tell but she felt detached from this world.
August 4, 2025
Meet Me at Luke's by Kristin Eckart is a great book for fans of The Gilmore Girls, blending as it does behind the scenes stories with pop culture references and a dash of self help. The author cleverly uses scenarios from the show and relationships between the characters to illustrate various life experiences and how we can respond to them and the book is beautifully illustrated throughout, in fact I think the illustrations were actually my favourite part of the book as a whole. Throughout the text the author works in the titles of books and movies referenced in the show and provides a complete list at the end of the book in case anyone wants to take on the challenge of reading/watching and there's even a couple of recipes from the show too. It is abundantly clear that the author loves the show and this book is very much targeted to those who feel the same way, and those readers will absolutely love this little gem of a book. As someone who generally avoids mindfulness or self help books like the plague, this one tempted me and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
January 21, 2026
Meet Me at Luke's: Lessons in Life and Love from Gilmore Girls is written by Kristen Eckhart, founder of the Gilmore Book Club.
Meet Me at Luke's is full of show insite and fun little tidbits about the show. Reading this book will have Gilmore Girls Fans reliving favorite moments across all seven seasons. It disects all the pop culture references, relives all the fun guest stars and touches upon all the most quotable lines.
From the site of the town map I immediately new this book would be awesome. I am a huge fan of Gilmore Girls tv series, movie and now this book. Speaking of books, I am obsessed with how Kristen included a Gilmore Reading challenge which features books that are referenced throughout! Continuing with lists, there is a QR code at the back of the book, that leads to a list of Gilmore Girls movies, and a list of tv shows as an addendum. The random illustrations throughout the book are gorgeous and add even more to this story. This is a must read for an Stars Hollow fan!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
#meetmeatlukes #netgalley
Meet Me at Luke's is full of show insite and fun little tidbits about the show. Reading this book will have Gilmore Girls Fans reliving favorite moments across all seven seasons. It disects all the pop culture references, relives all the fun guest stars and touches upon all the most quotable lines.
From the site of the town map I immediately new this book would be awesome. I am a huge fan of Gilmore Girls tv series, movie and now this book. Speaking of books, I am obsessed with how Kristen included a Gilmore Reading challenge which features books that are referenced throughout! Continuing with lists, there is a QR code at the back of the book, that leads to a list of Gilmore Girls movies, and a list of tv shows as an addendum. The random illustrations throughout the book are gorgeous and add even more to this story. This is a must read for an Stars Hollow fan!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
#meetmeatlukes #netgalley
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