Life-changing classic about pursuing dreams.
174 pages, ★★★★★
I loved this book but many online critics have given it just one star. Critics say it’s too simple, too cliché, and the moral of the story is either too individualistic or only concerns men. Personally, I give it five stars for all the same reasons. Commercially, The Alchemist has been a huge success (65 million copies have been sold). Fans of this book include Bill Clinton and Will Smith.
Rather than show you my opinion on this book, check out the following video instead. Watch Will Smith talk about The Alchemist at 01:25.
★★★★★
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James Kennedy 
This is still one of my favorite books ever. I read it right after graduating undergrad…so I read it at the perfect time in my life (you know starting my “journey” into the “real world” and all). Oh and I adored the writing…it’s simplicity was beautiful and I imagine harder to to do than it seems.
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I’m glad you like it, too. Right after graduating from undergrad (or maybe just before undergrad) is the perfect time to read this book. You were lucky! I agree that it’s simple yet beautiful.
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I’ve been given this by an aunt but I’m yet to pick it up properly, it looks promising. I’m wary of the hype but experience tells me to push that aside. Oh, and that video isn’t working anymore.
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It’s a very simple book. Don’t expect too much deep philosophy or complicated language and you’ll probably love it too. Most of the critics criticise it for being uncomplicated but I think that’s the beauty of it! This book is just sweet and simple with a very important message. Read it!
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Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist is the story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd kid content to
wander via the Spanish areas and communities with his faithful flcok up until a persisting dream concerning discovering his prize at the Pyramids of Egypt
rousts him from complacency. In trying to comprehend his desire, Santiago encounters
a smart old guy that calls himself Melchizedek, the Master of Salem, which sets
the boy off on a mission to discover his Individual Tale:
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Dear James, I share your love for Coelho’s magnum opus. I am writing a book on Coelho’s The Alchemist and I would like you to write a blurb for it. The work will be finished within a week.
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Hi Dr Dash – I’d be honored to do that. Send me a private message/email using the “Contact Me” button at the top of the website. James
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