Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist: A Short Review

"When you want something, all the Universe conspires to help you achieve it."

Until today, I haven't read any of Paulo Coelho's books. I don't know why but I'm thankful that  three days ago my brother asked me to buy the book for him because a certain teacher wanted them to read the book. Then my curiosity about it increased when a good friend of mine said that it's a great book to add on my reading list.

I devoured the book for almost 3 hours and after which I know that I will be reading more of his works. The simplicity and wisdom of the book is amazing, adding to it are helpful life lessons that will surely give you positive reasons to wake up happy every morning.

It's a very simple story about a shepherd boy, Santiago who pursue his dreams and meet different people along the way - a gypsy woman, a King, an Englishman and an alchemist who helped him understand his journey in achieving his greatest dream. 

The book teaches the readers simple things about God, life and love - the language of the world. But as you walk along with Santiago's journey you will realize that simple things always comes with a broader truth. You may not see it the first time you look at it but eventually you'll end up realizing that it's been there lying and waiting all along. 

I admire Coelho for writing such a pure and unembellished novel in all its content; a masterpiece that will surely resonate to people with different faiths and beliefs. A simple story that testifies the power of following one's dreams and listening to one's heart.

I can absolutely say that The Alchemist is a must-read and I highly recommend it.

Lessons from The Alchemist (Spoiler Alert!!!)

…and when each day is the same as the next, it’s because people fail to recognize the good things that happen in their lives every day that the sun rises. -page 27-

There must be a language that doesn’t depend on words… -page 43-

When someone makes a decision, he is really diving into a strong current that will carry him to places he had never dreamed of when he first made the decision. -page 68-

“Everyone has his or her own way of learning things,” he said to himself. “His way is isn’t the same as mine, nor mine as his. But we’re both in search of our Personal Legends, and I respect him for that.” -page 84-

It is said that all people who are happy have God within them. -page 131-

“When you possess great treasures within you, and try to tell others of them, seldom are you believed.” -page 134-

There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure. -page 141-

…when we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too. -page 150-

And that’s where the power of love comes in.  Because when we love, we always strive to become better than we are. -page 151-

thanks for reading,

russ d'great