A book review written by Lee Sonogan

163 Pages (1988) Quest, adventure, fantasy

“When we love, we always strive to become better than we are. When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.” ― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

In watching an interview with former MMA fighter Bas Rutten was the first time I heard of this Book. Originally published in Portuguese, this widely translated book become an international bestseller. Adapted into a comic, graphic novel, play and even an upcoming movie, this story is about a spiritual journey of a shepherd travelling to the pyramids of Egypt.

Written in only two weeks, the author Paulo Coelho achieved this because it was already written in his soul. Interpreted as self-help more than fictional literature, it portrays how the whole universe conspires to make your wishes to come true. And warns you of omens that connect with your actions.

If you have any interest in fate or one’s destiny, you will relate to shepherd Santiago’s experience. Following your heart is risky although life’s path requires recognizing the negative to reach the positive. Love it or hate it, if you decide to be inspired by it, the messages and symbolizations become very memorable.

I can see why people do dislike it too as it has a writing style of cliches and thoughts that contain information that is not everyone’s type of thing. Hence it can seem boring during some parts. Regardless, It is intended as a short read and capitalises on the points it tries to make. I am one that enjoyed it and even encouraged me to create a poem in the link below this paragraph.

7.7/10

“Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams, because every second of the search is a second’s encounter with God and with eternity.” ― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

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