The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of The Alchemist
Book Review: A simple but inspiring read
Summary: 4 Stars
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. One friend that read it really loved it. Another friend couldn't stand it and couldn't even finish it. I went into it not sure if I even wanted to try. It turns out to be a very simple read. Nothing profound, no big flattering words, no elegant prose but I found myself enjoying it all the same. It had a lot of ideas and philosophy that I liked to sit back and ponder on. I love a book that makes you think. It is about a simple shepherd boy who seeks out his own personal legend. The book is about the journey he makes, the people he meets and the things he learns. Don't open this book thinking it is a literary masterpiece... just ease into it a look at it for the simple meaning and beautiful story it gives.Book Review: A simple story with an easy to understand philosophical ideas
Summary: 5 Stars
Recently, a few people asked me what I think of the book Alchemist and if I would recommend it. At that instant I thought: what a book that was. My immediate answer was: Yes, I definitely recommend it. When I first became aware of this book, my first reaction was who is this author, Paulo Coehlo. At the time I did not recognize him. Well, after reading this book (especially this book) and some of his other books after that, it was a memorable reading experience.
The author conveys messages about life, through this simple allegorical story from the perspective of a young shepherd. While reading the story I found myself thinking about what the author was trying to say and thinking about life. I found myself thinking about what I would have done if I was in the shepherd's position at different instances in the story. It was kind of a suspense story, and I had to continue reading to find out more of his message. It presents philosophy in an easy to understand manner for those lay men like myself who enjoys a good philosophical question at times. Furthermore I found it inspirational, and for me it was also about the idea of pursuing dreams.
If you enjoy philosophy and are not a philosopher, then I would highly recommend this book. If you enjoyed reading books by Mitch Albom, then Alchemist is a must read. Besides being a casual philosopher if you like inspirational self help books, then I would suggest checking out Paulo Coehlo's Alchemist. I have read some of Paulo Coehlo's other books after reading this one.
Well, I would suggest reading this book, and let me know what you think of the Alchemist after you read it. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
Book Review: A simple tale with a few nuggets of inspiration.
Summary: 3 Stars
An easy read with undeveloped characters but stocked with a few nuggets of wisdom and inspiration. Sometimes the simple things are the best. If you're looking for deep esoteric symbolism and mysticism this may not be the book for you. If you like simple messages of facing your fears, applying faith, overcoming obstacles and finding the "treasure" that is already around you, then read this book. I'm glad I did.Book Review: A tale from Mathnawi of Rumi
Summary: 5 Stars
I love this guy Coelho. He does an incredible job of making complicated concepts of spirituality and mysticism more understandable. Or at least makes you think about these deeper. There is a lot of symbolism and philosophy in this book. One subject that is hidden in the text is the (reference to) the Sufi concept of ONENESS of BEING or "Wahdat-ul-Wujood". Some sort of Pantheistic view you can say. One can read poet Rumi to see the same tale written 700 years ago. Another subject that is very well given to the reader is a sense of interfaith/intercultural dialog, that we are all going to live on the same planet and we better learn how to treat each other well... But you have to explore the book for yourself. And make sure your spirit is that of Santiago, the shepherd boy, who can be like the winds!Book Review: A thought-provoking tale with many lessons...
Summary: 5 Stars
The Alchemist is an educational work that provides its reader the ability to choose whatever lesson they need learn. There are many interesting short-stories within the main story, and a dozen or so lessons one has the option of "taking" from said stories.
I respect the author's ability to provide such an intelligent, intriguing and thought-provoking masterpiece through easy-to-read text. His lack of "big words" only demonstrates his brilliance.
Excellent story- a must read!