The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Magical Realism
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £12.99–£20.00
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Technical
  • ID: 3672
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780061741241
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published: 2009-10-13
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3

The Alchemist is a captivating tale of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who ventures beyond his humble beginnings in search of a grand treasure. His journey takes him from the fields of Spain to the bustling markets of Tangiers and across the Egyptian desert, where he encounters the enigmatic alchemist. Along the way, Santiago learns valuable life lessons about listening to his heart, deciphering the signs of destiny, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams. This fable, written by Paulo Coelho, has become a modern classic, inspiring millions of readers worldwide. It weaves together elements of adventure, spirituality, and self-discovery, offering a universal message about the power of perseverance and the wisdom of following one's heart.

Reviews
the starving artist · Devontre Varro Flaherty · 2023-01-10
disappointing 2.50

The reviewer wished for a more compelling story with deeper characters and higher stakes. They found the message and moral of the book to be somewhat lacking.

Devontre Varro Flaherty expresses a preference for a more engaging narrative with richer characters and higher stakes. They feel the book's message and moral lessons fall short of their expectations. While the story has its moments, they believe it could have been much more impactful with a stronger focus on storytelling. The reviewer also mentions that the book's philosophical elements, while present, do not fully resonate due to the lack of depth in the characters and plot.

Quick quotes

    I would have much preferred it if Coelho had just told me an amazing story with compelling characters, interesting settings, and big stakes.

    Putting the message and moral by side, I enjoyed the story...

    The book's philosophical elements are present, but they don't fully resonate due to the lack of depth in the characters and plot.

Medium · Faith Nyawira · 2015-02-25
enlightening 4.50

The book is described as fantastic with beautiful storytelling and impeccable word choice. It is filled with wisdom and philosophy.

Faith Nyawira praises The Alchemist for its fantastic storytelling and the beautiful choice of words. She finds the book to be filled with wisdom and philosophy, making it a rich and rewarding read. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the narrative and the profound insights it offers. Nyawira highlights how the book's philosophical elements are seamlessly integrated into the story, enhancing the overall reading experience. She concludes that The Alchemist is a timeless piece that continues to inspire and enlighten readers.

Quick quotes

    The Alchemist is a fantastic book and the storytelling is beautiful.

    The choice of words are impeccable, full of wisdom and philosophy.

    It's a timeless piece that continues to inspire and enlighten readers.

The Guardian · 2012-05-11
inspiring 4.50

The book is praised for its brilliant writing and its ability to touch the heart. It is seen as a profound exploration of finding treasure within oneself.

The Guardian's review highlights the brilliant writing of The Alchemist, noting how it touches the heart as the story unfolds. The reviewer finds the book to be a profound exploration of the idea that every treasure lies within our own hearts. The narrative is described as heartwarming and insightful, making it a memorable read. The review emphasizes the book's ability to inspire and provoke deep reflection on life's journey and the importance of self-discovery.

Quick quotes

    This book is brilliantly written.

    It touches your heart as the story comes to an end.

    It teaches that every treasure lies in our own hearts.

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