The Alchemist, written by Paulo Coehlo, is not a new book. I however read it recently and agree with the praise it has gotten over the years. It has been said that The Alchemist is one of those few books that can be termed a modern classic.
It revolves around the experiences of a young boy Santiago and his thoughts. Santiago is a simple shepherd who ponders over various things. The book is written with a spiritual edge to it. It makes one realise how life can be an illusion. It allows an individual to make decisions for himself mentally and then change the course of his life. There were moments when I had to pause to understand the full meaning of a given statement. It is a book that will drastically influence a person’s life because of the moving realities the author puts forward so beautifully. The book keeps the reader mesmerised till the end, making it impossible for one to stop reading.
It compels one to reflect on the little omens that strike almost everyday and how people tend to disregard them because they make no sense.
Paulo Coehlo has painted a moving picture with effective use of simple language. Highly recommended.