The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
I read this book because it was my old English teacher's favorite book, and I also happened to have a copy at home. Initially, I was confused while reading this because it seemed to have a relatively simple (and boring) plot. But, upon reading it again, I was able to feel the light and almost dreamlike writing style that this book is written in. I really enjoyed it and strongly encourage you to read it!
The protagonist of this book is Santiago, a shepherd roaming around Spain. He recalls how his father had wanted him to become a priest instead of his own dreams of becoming a traveler. His father had said that although travelers see the wonders of the world, they themselves do not change and return home, feeling nostalgic for the past. His father then gives Santiago three gold coins to buy some sheep and travel around the countryside, and to return when he learns that his own town is the best.
The story shifts to the present, where Santiago goes to sell his wool to a merchant. On the way, he dreams of the great Egyptian Pyramids and the treasure that is buried underneath them. He meets a mysterious king named Melchizedek, who explains the concept of "Personal Legends" to Santiago. He explains that it represents what that person most desires to accomplish in his or her life. Everyone knows their Personal Legend when they are young, but as time passes, a mysterious force makes them feel they will never achieve their Personal Legend. The king gives Santiago two stones named Urim and Thummim and encourages Santiago to find his Personal Legend.
He goes to Tangier, a city in Morocco, where he gets robbed. He works under a crystal merchant whose dream is to complete the pilgrimage to Mecca in his lifetime. He gathers enough money under him and gets on a caravan to Egypt, on a search for the treasure.
I really liked this book because the writing style had a nice cloud-like, soft feeling. It also talks about the importance of searching for your dreams and how the whole universe supports you when you chase after your dreams. I would give this book a 8/10 and recommend it to everyone, since the book is relatively easy to read (although it requires some between-the-line reading).
-Jay
Hi Jay,
ReplyDeleteThe concept of "Personal Legends" is interesting to me. It reminded me of Kindergarten when everyone was talking about how they wanted to be an astronaut. I think people often do not necessarily give up what they want to do, but just discover something else they enjoy more. Although, the book is probably right that many people just do what is practical. Great review!
-Sasha
Hi Jay, calling the writing "cloud-like" was a nice way to describe the author's prose. I think that having nice easy readings that are more on the hopeful side is what the world needs.
ReplyDeleteHi Jay, I like how you gave a backstory to why you read the book in the first place. The book itself seems relatively interesting, but I am curious why the book is called "The Alchemist" . I also like how the dad told him to come back when he realized home was the best place.
ReplyDeleteThe whole concept of the book is intriguing and the summary doesn't give to much away. Good summary and review Jay.
ReplyDeleteHi Jay!!! I liked how you organized your review into three parts: how you got the book, a quick summary and your thoughts. I do have a question though: would you say its a fast paced book or a slow one?
ReplyDeletelooking back at an old book is and seeing how it changed can give you who new persetive. if I have some time over the summer I will look at it
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