Book: The Alchemist

Written By: Paulo Coelho

Reviewer: Rabneet

Rating: 4.5/5

The Alchemist centers on Santiago, a shepherd kid who chooses to pursue an ongoing dream that tells him to go for treasure far from home.  He encounters people along the route who encourage him to reflect on courage, destiny, and the clues the world gives him.  The narrative is brief and straightforward, but it emphasizes discovering your purpose and having faith in yourself even in the face of uncertainty.  It feels less like a conventional plot-heavy book and more like a journey-based life lesson.

The most appealing thing to me was how inspirational it is without coming across as preachy. Its calm, upbeat tone prompts you to consider your own objectives. Even though it seems a little unnecessary at times, you still remember the message. Teenagers will, in my opinion, be able to identify with Santiago’s struggle to follow his own path, particularly when everyone has different expectations for you.