Wednesday 18 April 2012

The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho

About the book
Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd, travels to Egypt after a recurring dream about finding treasure at the Pyramids.  




What I think 
I had heard many people talk about this book, but had never read it. When one of my Korean adult students told me it was her favourite book and she'd read it three times, I thought that it was about time I read it. And boy am I pleased I did!


This is such a beautiful and beautifully written book. I think, if I'd had time, I would've finished it in one sitting. The magic, the messages, the omens, the characters; everything is just perfect. 


The message of this book is extremely strong: Follow your dreams, but be prepared to have to fight hard for them! I will definitely be reading this book again. 


About the Author
Paolo Coelho (b. 24th August 1947) is a Brazilian lyricist and novelist. He has written 30 novels and The Alchemist, first published in 1987, has sold over 65 million copies and been translated into more than 70 languages. 

8 comments:

  1. I have read I believe all of Paolo Coelho's books. Some I did not enjoy , others I loved. The Alchemist I read in English and Spanish as well as had the audio book in the car as my husband is not a reader. It is an amazing allergory as to what is so true in all our lives...so often we cannot see how wonderful what we have right in front of us actually is.
    M.C.V. Egan

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    Replies
    1. Dear Catalina,

      Thank you so much for reading and posting a comment on my blog. It was my first Paolo Coelho book, but I'll definitely try another!

      I've just been to your website and your book, The Bridge of Deaths, looks very interesting. I've sent you a message regarding a review.

      Kind regards,
      Laura

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  2. Hello, just over from Book Blogs. I've yet to read the alchemist but it is on my TBR list. I love your Hong Kong Art photos. Our son and his family live in Australia and Hong Kong is a good place to spend a few days en route. I've just followed your blog and would be delighted if you would visit and maybe follow mine http://marchhousebookscom.blogspot.co.uk/
    Barbara

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    Replies
    1. Dear Barbara,

      Thank you for reading and posting a comment on my blog. I've had a look at yours and it looks great. I've become a follower.

      Hong Kong is a great place! I hope you'll get to visit more often.

      Just out of curiosity: how did you manage to get so many people to follow your blog?

      Kind regards,
      Laura

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  3. Oh.. I really hated this book. I just think that Coelho's quotes are really stupid and abvious. He's really unpopular in Poland and we say that only middle gradders enjoy his books. I understand some people may like it anyway :)
    I'm new follower from Book Blogs!
    Disincentive @ (read, watch, listen) - reviews

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    Replies
    1. Hi!
      Thanks for reading my blog and leaving a comment. And for becoming a follower - much appreciated!

      It's a shame that you didn't like the book, but you can't like them all, can you?! I wonder if it's a cultural thing if he's really unpopular in Poland.

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  4. Oh, I enjoyed that book as well. It is simple, but sometimes that is exactly what you need, ya know?

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    Replies
    1. Too true! I feel like I'll be reading it again, especially when I need a moment of inspiration!

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