A modern classic which was first published in 1988 in Portuguese, which has since been translated into seventy–one languages, making it the most translated book by a living author. It has sold more than sixty-five million copies in more than one hundred and fifty countries, making it one of the best selling books in history.
The Alchemist is not a complicated story, just a fable with a message about overcoming difficulties to enable you to follow your dreams. It is the story of Santiago a young shepherd from Andalusia who dreams of travelling the world in search of treasures. In his travels to Tangiers and Egypt he meets people with wisdom to impart, including an Englishman from whose books Santiago first learns about alchemists. Later he actually meets an alchemist who teaches him that the reason we remain unfulfilled in our lives is caused by the fear of failure.
This novel appeals to so many people as its outlook is so optimistic, telling us everything is possible if we really want it to happen. Everyone wants to think that the things we aspire to in this life, but never thought attainable may just be so after all. Therein I think lies the secret of the success of this best selling novel.
This video I found on YouTube is an excellent introduction to the book without any spoilers.
"The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho
Paul Coelho
Paulo Coelho was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on August 24th 1947 more information about his life can be found either on Wikipedia or his Official Website Paul Coelho.
What an interesting man this author is, while researching him I discovered some facts about him that made me realise what a well admired personality he is.
1. He is a Peace Messenger for the UN
2. He has over 5 million Facebook fans.
3. He has 1,678,557 followers on Twitter and follows just 90 people, including Lady Gaga.
4. The Paulo Coelho Institute gives help to the underprivileged and ostracized members of Brazilian society, mainly children and the elderly.
Information for this post is with thanks to the following websites.
I've read this book, Lindylou. I loved it. It was a gift from my bestfriend. Thank you for sharing with us the video and other facts about Paulo Coelho. Lovely post. :)
ReplyDeleteAmother good recommendation that I'll be adding to the TBR list.
ReplyDeleteBon weekend
Maggie
I have this book on my TBR list for the last three years but now after reading your review, I think need to pick it up soon. Great review as usual.
ReplyDeleteGreat post about Paul Coelho. I have heard about him, but I have never read any of his books. You have posted some fascinating facts about him, and I also appreciate your posting the video. :D
ReplyDeletexoxoxo,
Ricki Jill
I read this book MANY years ago. It was nice to be reminded of him. Have you read any of his other books?
ReplyDeleteLen@ I am delighted you found the extra information of interest.
ReplyDeleteMaggie@ Do let me know what you think if you do read this one.
Vibha@ Thankyou and definitely. I will look forward to your review.
Ricki Jill@ I am pleased you found the post interesting.
Patricia@ Yes but a long long time ago, not sure why I had missed this one.
Love this book. Read it a few years ago. I particularly like the message that often times we don't have to search far and wide to find happiness.
ReplyDeleteBookquoter@ It certainly has some special messages within its pages.
ReplyDeleteThis is the first book I had read of the author and was really inspired by it..
ReplyDeleteI've been meaning to read this book for ages! Thanks for the reminder that I should get on with it!
ReplyDeleteGood, very good.
ReplyDeleteJyoti@ I agree it is inspiring.
ReplyDeleteTalli@ Absolutely, it does not take long at less than two hundred pages.
Fresh Garden@ Welcome and thankyou for commenting.