Originally published on November 10, 2024 | Last updated on November 10, 2024
The Alchemist by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho was first published in Portuguese in 1988, and has since been translated into over 80 languages, becoming a global phenomenon. Thinking about giving it a read? Keep on reading to find out what you can expect from the book, as well as my thoughts.
Plot
The Alchemist follows Santiago, a young shepherd who dreams of discovering treasure in the Egyptian pyramids. One day he decides to follow his dream and sets off. Along his journey, he meets mentors and faces trials that ultimately help him realise his “Personal Legend” – a theme that lies at the heart of this tale.
Review
What makes The Alchemist stand out is its overall message: the importance of listening to your heart, rejecting fear, and following your dream. Despite the obstacles he faces on his journey, the shepherd always finds a way to believe and keep going. Coelho’s simple yet poetic prose allows readers to reflect on their own paths and what it means to pursue true happiness and follow your destiny. The theme is inspiring, which is why I believe the book has done so well and resonated with many people worldwide.
I also really liked the magical, whimsical aspect of this book. The story has a a sense of wonder, and the series of events that occur during the Shepperd’s journey feels like part of a grand, destined plan. It’s a world where the universe itself conspires to help those who pursue their “Personal Legend,” giving the novel its unique charm.
This book is short, and makes a very quick read. Due to its short length and simple plot, I found it slightly lacking in depth in both plot and character development. Despite this, I really enjoyed the read and found the message to be uplifting.
Quotes from The Alchemist
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
“It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.”
“There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure.”
“So, I love you because the entire universe conspired to help me find you.”
“The secret of life, though, is to fall seven times and to get up eight times.”
The Alchemist Rating — 4/5
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
The Alchemist is an enchanting fable that you can finish in a day. It’s full of wisdom, motivation, and life lessons. Its timeless message about pursuing your dreams makes it an uplifting read worth exploring.
What did you think of The Alchemist?
