Book Review of The Alchemist

The Alchemist is one of those "esoteric" feelingA few of his books have been non-fiction and about
books that makes you feel like life is vivid again.his own life. From what I can piece together, Paulo is
It certainly plays on the feeling that "there isa member of a little-known Mystic Catholic sect
something more" that you've forgotten and thewhich seeks after spiritual growth. They assign
thought that you are part of a bigger plan.previously unknown international mentors to their
As you follow Santiago, the shepherd boy on hismembers...older men who have attained a high
adventure, you will automatically question your owndegree of spiritual power (and worldly success?). I
adventure in life; are you living up to your higherwon't even go into some of the weird stuff they do,
purpose? Why have you forgotten your way? Whatbut if you want to an idea, pick up "The Pilgrimage",
else is out there that you should be doing? Have youalso by Coelho.
betrayed what you were meant to do with your life?But do read The Alchemist; it is just such a good
Asking questions like this...feeling the feelings that gobook. It 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,Today I was reading an interview with Paulo, in which
you will feel more alive. You will feel more in tunehe talked about watching for "Omens" in your life
with "the universe". You will feel that wonderfulthat only you will recognize. It's a language the
-wind feeling...that is...unless you don't know what that"Universe" speaks to you through...like coincidences,
feels like.songs, feelings, synchronicities. This is a theme he
Santiago follows his dreams, which take him fromdefinitely speaks 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
from messengers that seem placed in his path at thesome "plan" for your life that you should have
right moment, just when he needs them.followed; that you should wake up, take your head
The author, Paulo Coelho, is a Brazilian writer who isout of the "touchy-feely" clouds and get back to
very well-liked. I heard that Madonna loves him. Iwork.
have read several of his books, but I think this is theIf you are prone to such thoughts, perhaps this book
best one. He has churned out quite a few moreis not for you. However, if you enjoy waking up your
books in the last few years that I have not readsoul from time to time, there is no better place to do
yet, so it is certainly possible that he has outdoneit than in the clouds.
The Alchemist. I'll check it out.