The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho

Feb 2015 · Sold by HarperCollins

About this ebook

A special 25th anniversary edition of the extraordinary international bestseller, including a new Foreword by Paulo Coelho.

Combining magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder into an inspiring tale of self-discovery, The Alchemist has become a modern classic, selling millions of copies around the world and transforming the lives of countless readers across generations.

Paulo Coelho's masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined. Santiago's journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life's path, and, most importantly, to follow our dreams.

Ratings and reviews

3 stars for writing quality, and maybe 4 for overall impression. Maybe 4. The entire book is written in a way that makes you feel as if it's actually being related to you by someone who read the original story. The writing isn't anything special... It's pretty monotone as are the characters and plot, to be honest. The messages are definitely interesting to think about, but I didn't find them profound. But I did like the challenge to follow your dreams and stay true to yourself. God and religious themes are a strong element of the book, any maybe you'll find this more inspiring if you have a strong faith in the Divine. However, I found the story to be a let down after all the hype, and definitely wish I hadn't bought the book. Worth a read? I guess, if you're bored.

itis rich in fiction and clearly crafted by Paulo Coelho to make more perfect. It is about following your dream and goal and achieving it; while doing so the whole universe conspires for its happening. It's special feature is that it talks a lot about the 'Soul of the World' which attracts people towards their goals. The book has received the Niels Golden book award for its outstanding sales in the retail markets of UK. It is a third person narration and it tells about the story of a young boy.

The alchemist , the novel rounds about a shepherd and the western media glorifies the novel as one of the best by Paulo Coelho. But in my view it is an ordinary one, an average book selling in US markets as the best no. 1 best seller some time back. May be the mind of capitalists following money as a primary object finds solace thru these kind of novels. Let it be.

About the author

One of the most influential writers of our time, Paulo Coelho is the author of thirty international bestsellers, including The Alchemist, Warrior of the Light, Brida, Veronika Decides to Die, and Eleven Minutes. He is a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters and a United Nations Messenger of Peace. Paulo is the recipient of 115 international prizes and awards, among them, the Chevalier de l'Ordre National de la Légion d'Honneur (Legion of Honor). Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1947, he soon discovered his vocation for writing. He worked as a director, theater actor, songwriter, and journalist. In 1986, a special meeting led him to make the pilgrimage to Saint James Compostela (in Spain). The Road to Santiago was not only a common pilgrimage but a turning point in his existence. A year later, he wrote The Pilgrimage, an autobiographical novel that is considered the beginning of his literary career. He lives in Geneva, Switzerland.