Since I read the 25th anniversary of the edition of The Alchemist, it is clear that I am a bit late to the party. But I cannot praise this book enough. One of my friends recommended it to me during the fall semester and I added it to my long list of books to read, eventually. Over break, she came home with me and found it in a local bookstore. I told her that I already had too many books to read and moved on to another section of the store. Yet, she persisted and eventually I succumbed to the temptation.
I do not regret buying The Alchemist or reading it in a day. It is clever and eloquent, challenging and reassuring. For anyone looking for answers, this is the perfect place to find them. For anyone wanting a break from reality, this is a wonderful vacation. For anyone searching for acceptance, this is an excellent guide.
172 pages and not a single arbitrary word exists. Paulo Coelho writes with passion and precision, though he still leaves room for interpretation. Many critics deem this work to be a modern classic. And although Coelho struggled to publish this novel at first, his persistence (just like my friend’s) payed off. I am immensely grateful that they both did not take no for an answer.
Main image from Abe Books.
Photo from Pinterest.