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thenile.com.au

Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho has been read by over 30 million people, many of whom have claimed that it has been a life changing experience.

The Spanish shepherd boy Santiago (actually he's in his late teens) has a dream of treasure near the Pyramids. Should he believe his dream? He meets a man who gives him the advice that when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it. Strangely similar to a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson. Now I read somewhere that Emerson deserved to be shot for his quote about mousetraps, and this advice didn't seem very helpful either. Santiago sells his flock and starts a journey to Egypt, but soon all his money is stolen - hardly things conspiring in his favour. He has to try to earn enough to restart a flock.

But does Santiago ever find his treasure by the Pyramids? You'll need to read the book to find out. The point the book does make is that if you really want to do something but don't, then you'll live to regret it - much more than if you go ahead but run into problems. A lesson you can learn from other books perhaps, but Coelho's enchanting fable is still well worth reading.

Amazon.com info

Paperback 208 pages
ISBN: 0061122416
Salesrank: 207
Weight:0.55 lbs

Published: 2006 HarperCollins

Amazon price $9.97

Marketplace:New from $6.69:Used from $2.98

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Amazon.co.uk info

Paperback 208 pages
ISBN: 0722532938
Salesrank: 329
Weight:0.53 lbs

Published: 1999 Thorsons

Amazon price £3.99

Marketplace:New from £1.22:Used from £0.01

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Amazon.ca info

Paperback 208 pages
ISBN: 0061122416
Salesrank: 658
Weight:0.55 lbs

Published: 2006 Harperone

Amazon price CDN$ 13.86

Marketplace:New from CDN$ 10.55:Used from CDN$ 6.34

Buy from Amazon.ca

Product Description
My Heart Is Afraid that it will have to suffer," the boy told the alchemist one night as they looked up at the moonless sky."Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams." Every few decades a book is published that changes the lives of its readers forever. The Alchemist is such a book. With over a million and a half copies sold around the world, The Alchemist has already established itself as a modern classic, universally admired. Paulo Coelho's charming fable, now available in English for the first time, will enchant and inspire an even wider audience of readers for generations to come. The Alchemist is the magical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure as extravagant as any ever found. From his home in Spain he journeys to the markets of Tangiers and across the Egyptian desert to a fateful encounter with the alchemist. The story of the treasures Santiago finds along the way teaches us, as only a few stories have done, about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, learning to read the omens strewn along life's path, and, above all, following our dreams.

Product Description

My Heart Is Afraid that it will have to suffer," the boy told the alchemist one night as they looked up at the moonless sky."Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams."

Every few decades a book is published that changes the lives of its readers forever. The Alchemist is such a book. With over a million and a half copies sold around the world, The Alchemist has already established itself as a modern classic, universally admired. Paulo Coelho's charming fable, now available in English for the first time, will enchant and inspire an even wider audience of readers for generations to come.

The Alchemist is the magical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure as extravagant as any ever found. From his home in Spain he journeys to the markets of Tangiers and across the Egyptian desert to a fateful encounter with the alchemist.

The story of the treasures Santiago finds along the way teaches us, as only a few stories have done, about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, learning to read the omens strewn along life's path, and, above all, following our dreams.

Rich & Colorful, Cheered me up *****
I read this book about a week and a half before starting chemo therapy and it really put a smile on my face. Though the lessons shared here may not be new as others have pointed out, its presentation and lightheartedness make it a great read and easy to grasp. It's engaging story offers material for you to ponder. On several instances I had to close it mid page to give it some thought. Great metaphors are abundant but often times Coelho just spells it out right there on the page for you. I went through the questions at the end which were also nice. I agree with the concept that the best way to get what you want is to want what you have, and honestly I could type several paragraphs on the messages from this. This book is going to mean different things to different people, but in short the importance for my life was on people (I'm a home-body) , as well as placing equal value on the journey as well as the destination. Great considerations for a "grass is greener..." kind of guy like me, and this served as one among life's many reminders to remember and practice those lessons. Whenever you are talking about happiness and life's dreams it is hard for religion and spirituality not to intertwine. I do not consider this a secular, worldly, or any type of confirming/non confirming religious statement in any way. No matter what your faith system is this book leaves spaces for it to relate to you. The subjects "the soul of the world" and "the hand that writes everything" are analogies for you to perceive as you please. I recommend this book anyone, it is a good story, and deeply thought provoking. I'm not giving it 5 stars because I think it is "the fiber of man kinds being", I just think it has some important yet simple wisdom (albeit old as some reviews complain), presented in a great way, that everyone should consider. A lot of friends I have (and myself) would be better off if they considered things like this more often; appreciating the small things in life, but alas knowing is not the same as doing. I plan on keeping this and revisiting it in the future. It is a story that really made me think, and smile, I literally laughed out loud when I read the last paragraph, then I thought about it over a long hike with my dog, I like that in a book.

Rich & Colorful, Cheered me up *****

I read this book about a week and a half before starting chemo therapy and it really put a smile on my face. Though the lessons shared here may not be new as others have pointed out, its presentation and lightheartedness make it a great read and easy to grasp. It's engaging story offers material for you to ponder.

On several instances I had to close it mid page to give it some thought. Great metaphors are abundant but often times Coelho just spells it out right there on the page for you. I went through the questions at the end which were also nice.

I agree with the concept that the best way to get what you want is to want what you have, and honestly I could type several paragraphs on the messages from this. This book is going to mean different things to different people, but in short the importance for my life was on people (I'm a home-body) , as well as placing equal value on the journey as well as the destination. Great considerations for a "grass is greener..." kind of guy like me, and this served as one among life's many reminders to remember and practice those lessons.

Whenever you are talking about happiness and life's dreams it is hard for religion and spirituality not to intertwine. I do not consider this a secular, worldly, or any type of confirming/non confirming religious statement in any way. No matter what your faith system is this book leaves spaces for it to relate to you. The subjects "the soul of the world" and "the hand that writes everything" are analogies for you to perceive as you please.

I recommend this book anyone, it is a good story, and deeply thought provoking. I'm not giving it 5 stars because I think it is "the fiber of man kinds being", I just think it has some important yet simple wisdom (albeit old as some reviews complain), presented in a great way, that everyone should consider. A lot of friends I have (and myself) would be better off if they considered things like this more often; appreciating the small things in life, but alas knowing is not the same as doing.

I plan on keeping this and revisiting it in the future. It is a story that really made me think, and smile, I literally laughed out loud when I read the last paragraph, then I thought about it over a long hike with my dog, I like that in a book.

Beautiful and Soulful *****
I have to admit to reading this book at least 5 times over the last 3 or 4 years. I buy this book for everyone! EVERYONE! Such a simple story/message, yet it gets me every time. Read this book. You will not be disappointed.

Beautiful and Soulful *****

I have to admit to reading this book at least 5 times over the last 3 or 4 years. I buy this book for everyone! EVERYONE! Such a simple story/message, yet it gets me every time.

Read this book. You will not be disappointed.

Good Book *****
Very interesting read, I ended up finishing the book on the same day ups delivered it. Oh that's one thing that could have been better, the adventure could have been longer.

Good Book *****

Very interesting read, I ended up finishing the book on the same day ups delivered it. Oh that's one thing that could have been better, the adventure could have been longer.

Great read! *****
This is a great book. I highly recommend this to readers of all ages. The book was in great condition. I love hand me down books because it's easier to turn the pages!

Great read! *****

This is a great book. I highly recommend this to readers of all ages. The book was in great condition. I love hand me down books because it's easier to turn the pages!

Cheap, sentimental nonsense **
This is a book that seems to be everywhere--and it's not necessarily all that new. Yet, any airport bookstore usually has this read included in its select cache. So after seeing it so many times, I decided to give it a read. wow. Talk about juvenile. Perhaps, that is what this is: Juvenile fiction that should be placed with the teenage titles--the Young Adult section, but it's considered serious spiritual fiction. I found it laughable for all the wrong reasons. Cliche upon cliche. I almost winced at certain parts, embarrassed for the author--who is probably not embarrassed at all--as he must be making money hand over fist with such shallow fare. What can I say? Romance fiction sells well,too. If you're looking for pap, pulpy, sugary feel good, gook, this read's for you. If you are looking for depth, zest, richness and a reading experience that will truly take you somewhere, I recommend SIM0N LAZARUS--a book that deserves far more attention than this!

Cheap, sentimental nonsense **

This is a book that seems to be everywhere--and it's not necessarily all that new. Yet, any airport bookstore usually has this read included in its select cache. So after seeing it so many times, I decided to give it a read. wow. Talk about juvenile. Perhaps, that is what this is: Juvenile fiction that should be placed with the teenage titles--the Young Adult section, but it's considered serious spiritual fiction. I found it laughable for all the wrong reasons. Cliche upon cliche. I almost winced at certain parts, embarrassed for the author--who is probably not embarrassed at all--as he must be making money hand over fist with such shallow fare. What can I say? Romance fiction sells well,too.

If you're looking for pap, pulpy, sugary feel good, gook, this read's for you. If you are looking for depth, zest, richness and a reading experience that will truly take you somewhere, I recommend SIM0N LAZARUS--a book that deserves far more attention than this!

The Alchemist changed my life *****
What an amazing life changing book, the subtle messages are undertones for the creation of the self belief and faith that we all need to achive in life.

The Alchemist changed my life *****

What an amazing life changing book, the subtle messages are undertones for the creation of the self belief and faith that we all need to achive in life.

Fictional self-help book *****
When reading this book, I was struck by the amount of principles I recognised in it, which I have read about in many different self-help books. 'The Alchemist' basically ecapsulates much of the wisdom and advice of self-help books in to its story about a shepherd who is chasing his dreams. It only took me 2 or 3 hours to read but reading it was a marvellous and inspirational journey. I won't go in to too much detail as there is already a multitude of reviews for this book, but it's a great read, it's inspirational, and if celebrity endorsement is important to you, Bill Clinton and Julia Roberts have read the book, and Madonna endorses it in the blurb. There is also an interview with Paulo Coelho at the back of the book, which I found interesting to read.

Fictional self-help book *****

When reading this book, I was struck by the amount of principles I recognised in it, which I have read about in many different self-help books. 'The Alchemist' basically ecapsulates much of the wisdom and advice of self-help books in to its story about a shepherd who is chasing his dreams.

It only took me 2 or 3 hours to read but reading it was a marvellous and inspirational journey. I won't go in to too much detail as there is already a multitude of reviews for this book, but it's a great read, it's inspirational, and if celebrity endorsement is important to you, Bill Clinton and Julia Roberts have read the book, and Madonna endorses it in the blurb.

There is also an interview with Paulo Coelho at the back of the book, which I found interesting to read.

The Alchemist *****
A truly inspirational and motivating read that gives you the confidence and belief that all dreams can become reality if you open your eyes and follow the signs. A very philosophical book well worth buying.

The Alchemist *****

A truly inspirational and motivating read that gives you the confidence and belief that all dreams can become reality if you open your eyes and follow the signs. A very philosophical book well worth buying.

Acres of diamonds ****
A story showing that you don't really need to go far at all to find what you are looking for - it's often in your own back yard!Sara: Bk. 1: Sara Learns the Secret About the Law of AttractionSara, Book 2: Solomon's Fine Featherless Friends: Bk. 2Sara, Book 3: Bk. 3WOLFGANG THE WIZARD MUSICIAN And Other Young Composers

Acres of diamonds ****

A story showing that you don't really need to go far at all to find what you are looking for - it's often in your own back yard!Sara: Bk. 1: Sara Learns the Secret About the Law of AttractionSara, Book 2: Solomon's Fine Featherless Friends: Bk. 2Sara, Book 3: Bk. 3WOLFGANG THE WIZARD MUSICIAN And Other Young Composers

Almost there ***
This book easy to read and had it finished in a couple of hours. The first half of the book is an enjoyable read and you connect with the main character and want him to achieve his dream. That said, the second half, although following the same plot feels like its a different book. The fable/fantasy really kicks in full swing all of a sudden and feels a little rushed when he meets the Alchemist. The message follow your dream and your heart remains throughout the book but toward the end I didnt care anymore if Santiago reached his goal or not. A good start, but faltered toward the end.

Almost there ***

This book easy to read and had it finished in a couple of hours. The first half of the book is an enjoyable read and you connect with the main character and want him to achieve his dream. That said, the second half, although following the same plot feels like its a different book. The fable/fantasy really kicks in full swing all of a sudden and feels a little rushed when he meets the Alchemist. The message follow your dream and your heart remains throughout the book but toward the end I didnt care anymore if Santiago reached his goal or not.
A good start, but faltered toward the end.

A Motivational Book *****
This book is good at accomplishing one goal: motivating its reader. Specifically, it motivates you to follow your heart and endeavor to fulfill goals that you've set for yourself. Despite the religious tone of the book, I found that each character in the fable had a good life lesson to teach. I highly recommend this book to anyone who's feeling gloomy; it will surely brighten your day.

A Motivational Book *****

This book is good at accomplishing one goal: motivating its reader. Specifically, it motivates you to follow your heart and endeavor to fulfill goals that you've set for yourself. Despite the religious tone of the book, I found that each character in the fable had a good life lesson to teach. I highly recommend this book to anyone who's feeling gloomy; it will surely brighten your day.

Good Read ***
Great story with many jewels of wisdom put in throughout. There are lessons here for all of us to learn from and great advice on how to live life.

Good Read ***

Great story with many jewels of wisdom put in throughout. There are lessons
here for all of us to learn from and great advice on how to live life.

Mrs. Q: Book Addict : Visit my blog for newest reviews. ****
The Alchemist is a simple fable that alludes to the fact that all of us have a purpose and a dream in life. It is a simple book, but nonetheless inspiring. It is a story about a young boy named Santiago who has reoccurring dreams about a treasure, when he goes to see a gypsy about the meaning of his dream she tells him to follow his dream and not to pay her now for her services but to pay her one tenth of his treasure once he finds it. Santiago left home to become a shepherd to follow his dreams of travel. He is hesitant to leave his flock, but begins to follow omens. Through his travels he overcomes many obstacles and meets many people who guide him in his journey. He meets to love of his life Fatima. Santiago tells her that he will need to continue on his journey but rest assured that he will come back to her. Through the story Santiago is led by many spiritual guides, and leaves the readers inspired. All of us have a purpose in life, and we need to listen to the omens around us. Our heart will lead us, where it will need to go. I did enjoy the novel. However, near the end I did want it to end. This book was given to me from a coworker and I'm glad I read it. I do recommend the novel, especially for someone who is struggling to make life decisions. It's a spiritual and inspiring book that I'm happy to add to my "read in 2009 list."

Mrs. Q: Book Addict : Visit my blog for newest reviews. ****

The Alchemist is a simple fable that alludes to the fact that all of us have a purpose and a dream in life. It is a simple book, but nonetheless inspiring. It is a story about a young boy named Santiago who has reoccurring dreams about a treasure, when he goes to see a gypsy about the meaning of his dream she tells him to follow his dream and not to pay her now for her services but to pay her one tenth of his treasure once he finds it. Santiago left home to become a shepherd to follow his dreams of travel. He is hesitant to leave his flock, but begins to follow omens. Through his travels he overcomes many obstacles and meets many people who guide him in his journey. He meets to love of his life Fatima. Santiago tells her that he will need to continue on his journey but rest assured that he will come back to her. Through the story Santiago is led by many spiritual guides, and leaves the readers inspired. All of us have a purpose in life, and we need to listen to the omens around us. Our heart will lead us, where it will need to go.

I did enjoy the novel. However, near the end I did want it to end. This book was given to me from a coworker and I'm glad I read it. I do recommend the novel, especially for someone who is struggling to make life decisions. It's a spiritual and inspiring book that I'm happy to add to my "read in 2009 list."

Profoundly insipid *
Profoundly vapid, insipid, merit-less, pseudo-spiritual tripe. If Cinderella is your idea of a good read, this will appeal to you. Could have been written in the time it takes to read. Next to this, the Harry Potter series merits a Nobel. Humor, plotting, character development, intelligence, descriptiveness are all absent from this. Like a bad classics comic without the nice drawings.

Profoundly insipid *

Profoundly vapid, insipid, merit-less, pseudo-spiritual tripe. If Cinderella is your idea of a good read, this will appeal to you. Could have been written in the time it takes to read. Next to this, the Harry Potter series merits a Nobel. Humor, plotting, character development, intelligence, descriptiveness are all absent from this. Like a bad classics comic without the nice drawings.