Book Review of The Alchemist

The Alchemist is one of those "esoteric" feeling bookscheck it out.
that makes you feel like life is vivid again.A few of his books have been non-fiction and about
It certainly plays on the feeling that "there is somethinghis own life. From what I can piece together, Paulo is a
more" that you've forgotten and the thought that youmember of a little-known Mystic Catholic sect which
are part of a bigger plan.seeks after spiritual growth. They assign previously
As you follow Santiago, the shepherd boy on hisunknown international mentors to their members...older
adventure, you will automatically question your ownmen who have attained a high degree of spiritual
adventure in life; are you living up to your higherpower (and worldly success?). I won't even go into
purpose? Why have you forgotten your way? Whatsome of the weird stuff they do, but if you want to an
else is out there that you should be doing? Have youidea, pick up "The Pilgrimage", also by Coelho.
betrayed what you were meant to do with your life?But do read The Alchemist; it is just such a good book.
Asking questions like this...feeling the feelings that goIt will definitely give you a wisdom-buzz...or an
along with such questions...it really is a wonderful way"esoteric-buzz".
to live. For the short time that you read this book, youToday I was reading an interview with Paulo, in which
will feel more alive. You will feel more in tune with "thehe talked about watching for "Omens" in your life that
universe". You will feel that wonderfulonly you will recognize. It's a language the "Universe"
ind feeling...that is...unless you don't know what thatspeaks to you through...like coincidences, songs,
feels like.feelings, synchronicities. This is a theme he definitely
Santiago follows his dreams, which take him fromspeaks a lot about in The Alchemist.
Spain to Morocco and then Egypt, all in search of aSome people complain that the book is too simplistic,
special treasure. During his travels he learns lessonsthat you would be stupid to believe that there is some
from messengers that seem placed in his path at the"plan" for your life that you should have followed; that
right moment, just when he needs them.you should wake up, take your head out of the
The author, Paulo Coelho, is a Brazilian writer who is"touchy-feely" clouds and get back to work.
very well-liked. I heard that Madonna loves him. I haveIf you are prone to such thoughts, perhaps this book is
read several of his books, but I think this is the bestnot for you. However, if you enjoy waking up your soul
one. He has churned out quite a few more books infrom time to time, there is no better place to do it than
the last few years that I have not read yet, so it isin the clouds.
certainly possible that he has outdone The Alchemist. I'll