I first heard of The Alchemist when I was browsing through the net for fantasy books recommendations. Goodreads users rated it pretty good and it was highly recommended by various people online. Naturally, when I came across it in a books sale, I bought it without much hesitation.
The book is all about a shepherd - how he came to be one, why he chose this path and his life journey and transition after a recurring dream that prompted him to make some important life changes. He soon met with messengers and learned about omens. He listened and followed the omens on a journey to find a treasure in the desert.
With a heavy heart he learned to make sacrifices - from selling his entire herd of sheep to leaving behind the woman he loves. With all challenges in life, the boy came close to giving up but ultimately, he managed to persevere.
The author Paulo Coelho attempts to show the reader lessons of life, the difficult journey that must be taken and the sacrifices that needed to be made to achieve greatness. It’s crucial for one to be open and always be on the lookout for signs. Only then will the universe conspire to help achieve one’s dream. This is really a book about spirituality in the guise of a simple story but with a strong impact.
This book is most suitable for people in search of life’s meaning. The Alchemist will seek to reinforce the view where there’s a will, there’s a way. Whichever faith you believe in, God will always be at your side to ensure success.
People looking for mysteries, fantasies and thrills might find this book too bland and simple though there are instances of sorcery and magic moments. There’s even a twist in the story.
The Alchemist’s strong spiritual lessons depicted through a straightforward fantasy storyline may not appeal to today’s societies that are exposed to increasingly complex and strenuous lifestyles… unless the reader is willing to let logic go and accept the story at face value.
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