The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - Book Review

by Sandy
(Minneapolis, MN)

Magical in its simplicity, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a book that you can read over and over, yet it will be fresh with each new reading.

Although it’s only a short fable (just shy of 200 pages), The Alchemist stays true to its title by transforming the same combination of written words into gold for each person who reads it.

Santiago, the main character, roams the countryside of southern Spain with his herd of sheep and bag of books, dreaming of a hidden treasure buried near the Egyptian pyramids.

A simple, routine trip into town and an encounter with a stranger hurtle Santiago into the pursuit of his personal legend.

At each point in my life I’ve faltered or questioned myself, reading this book has helped me find answers.

I don’t know how it manages to be such a different book each time I read it; but in life as well as in books, a little magic is sometimes necessary.

Note from Megan, editor of The Book Club Guide

Thanks for this great review, Sandy. I have had this book on my "to be read" list for a while, and am looking forward to picking up my copy from the library soon!