You need not be an avid reader to identify the perfect book for yourself. Everyone has their preference and taste. You can love romance, thriller, or horror narratives. The moment you see a book, you’ve already decided its fate. So what comes to your mind when you read The Alchemist? The Alchemist book review will give the necessary insights you might want to know.
What’s the plot?

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, a Brazilian author, is one of the best-selling books in history. It was first published in Portuguese in 1988 and has since been translated into numerous languages worldwide. The novel is an analogy that follows a young Andalusian shepherd on his journey to Egypt’s pyramids after having a recurring dream of discovering a treasure there.
In 1987, Coelho wrote The Alchemist in just two weeks. He explained that he could write at such a rapid pace because the story was “already written in (his) soul.”
The story begins by describing a shepherd named Santiago and his flock arriving at an abandoned church. Santiago continues to have dreams about a treasure he discovers near the pyramids in Egypt.
A fortune teller interprets the dream as a prophecy. Before beginning his journey, Santiago meets an old king named Melchizedek, known as the King of Salem. The latter advises him to sell his sheep to travel to Egypt and introduces the concept of a personal legend. He loosely explains that a personal legend is finding his life’s purpose.
As a result, the book’s plot is primarily focused on Santiago following his dream and attempting to live out his personal legend. He sets out on a journey to Tangiers and Egypt, where he must overcome numerous obstacles before discovering his treasure. The central theme of the book is realizing one’s destiny.
Santiago meets many new people and faces many challenges along the way, which ultimately helps him learn and grow. Does he find the treasures in Egypt’s Pyramids?
Thoughts about the book
The Alchemist is a fascinating read with beautiful storytelling. The word choice is flawless, full of wisdom and philosophy. It gives you a sense of inspiration. The story is enchanting and brimming with optimism, which is essential in our lives. The book demonstrates that the path to your destiny is just as critical as the destination itself.
The story of an ordinary boy emphasizes the importance of faith, hope, and spirituality. The narration itself justifies the simplicity and nuances of the book. Indeed, everyone will enjoy this book because we all have dreams, and sometimes we just want someone to tell us they might come true.
Another intriguing theme in the novel to which one can relate is the negative consequences of fear. People will live in misery if they let fear control their lives. Santiago would not have discovered the treasure and, more importantly, the meaning of his life, his personal legend, if he had allowed his fear of pursuing his dream to dominate his life.
Overall, The Alchemist book review states that it is an exciting fiction novel that should be on everyone’s bookshelf. It’s the best read when you feel like diving into illusion and coming back to reality with a strong mind and positive attitude.
Key takeaways
- Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist is one of the best-selling books in history.
- The protagonist in the book is Santiago, who is following his personal legend.
- The book is a must-read for people looking out for motivation and inspiration combined with an engaging plot.
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