- Shopping Bag ( 0 items )
Most Helpful Favorable Review
11 out of 11 people found this review helpful.
A very touching, meaningful, story with life lessons
As I get older, it seems I discover more about life. I'm 70 now. This is a book I wish I read years ago. You will learn things that I did and did not in this book, all of which will help you find your way through life. It is a great read too. Fun, hard to put down. Wond...Read More
As I get older, it seems I discover more about life. I'm 70 now. This is a book I wish I read years ago. You will learn things that I did and did not in this book, all of which will help you find your way through life. It is a great read too. Fun, hard to put down. Wonderful.Show Less
posted by OldBob on January 11, 2009
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Most Helpful Critical Review
17 out of 23 people found this review helpful.
The Alchemist's Real Message
Although Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist conveys an uplifting message about the individual's potential for greatness, the novel's over-simplicity and dependence on a message of reassurance detract from the strength of this central theme and its pertinence to the human expe...Read More
Although Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist conveys an uplifting message about the individual's potential for greatness, the novel's over-simplicity and dependence on a message of reassurance detract from the strength of this central theme and its pertinence to the human experience. Through the narrative of a young shepherd boy named Santiago, Coelho constructs the age-old story of an individual pursing a dream. However, what distinguishes Coelho's story from all the others is the bold universalization of this theme that he makes when he claims that, "To realize one's destiny is a person's only obligation." Now although this is certainly an empowering message, and one that contributes to the novel's widespread appeal, the underlying message of Coelho's feel-good story of Santiago's journey across continents in search of his "Personal Legend" should not be taken at face value. In spite of its apparent self-empowerment, Coelho's simplistic reduction of achievements to desires actually diminishes the individual's role in the pursuit of his or her Personal Legend. One concept that the young Santiago is taught before his quest even begins is that when in pursuit of a Personal Legend the entire universe aids one in achieving it. This message, central to the worldview that Coelho advances in the novel, would seem to be encouraging, but in fact it is highly misleading. To say that just because a person desires something it is within the realm of his or her possibilities to achieve it is in stark opposition to the facts of reality. A person does not realize his or her goals by the mere fact of experiencing hardships as Santiago is counseled to do under the banner of the adage that the world works in mysterious ways. Instead, one triumphs over trials and tribulations by means of one's efforts and abilities, not by a naïve reliance on fate and destiny. And it is for this reason that The Alchemist is not really a novel in praise of the individual's capacity for greatness, but one that denigrates this potential by devaluing the individual's role in influencing his or her own destiny. In all, if you are looking for a book that truly lifts your spirits and speaks to the true nature of your infinite possibilities, look elsewhere, you will not find it here. In The Alchemist all you will find is a striking fatalism hidden beneath the guise of one boy's quest for his Personal Legend.Show Less
posted by Alex_Ades on August 30, 2009
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.-
Alex_Ades
Posted August 30, 2009
The Alchemist's Real Message
Although Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist conveys an uplifting message about the individual's potential for greatness, the novel's over-simplicity and dependence on a message of reassurance detract from the strength of this central theme and its pertinence to the human experience. Through the narrative of a young shepherd boy named Santiago, Coelho constructs the age-old story of an individual pursing a dream. However, what distinguishes Coelho's story from all the others is the bold universalization of this theme that he makes when he claims that, "To realize one's destiny is a person's only obligation." Now although this is certainly an empowering message, and one that contributes to the novel's widespread appeal, the underlying message of Coelho's feel-good story of Santiago's journey across continents in search of his "Personal Legend" should not be taken at face value. In spite of its apparent self-empowerment, Coelho's simplistic reduction of achievements to desires actually diminishes the individual's role in the pursuit of his or her Personal Legend. One concept that the young Santiago is taught before his quest even begins is that when in pursuit of a Personal Legend the entire universe aids one in achieving it. This message, central to the worldview that Coelho advances in the novel, would seem to be encouraging, but in fact it is highly misleading. To say that just because a person desires something it is within the realm of his or her possibilities to achieve it is in stark opposition to the facts of reality. A person does not realize his or her goals by the mere fact of experiencing hardships as Santiago is counseled to do under the banner of the adage that the world works in mysterious ways. Instead, one triumphs over trials and tribulations by means of one's efforts and abilities, not by a naïve reliance on fate and destiny. And it is for this reason that The Alchemist is not really a novel in praise of the individual's capacity for greatness, but one that denigrates this potential by devaluing the individual's role in influencing his or her own destiny. In all, if you are looking for a book that truly lifts your spirits and speaks to the true nature of your infinite possibilities, look elsewhere, you will not find it here. In The Alchemist all you will find is a striking fatalism hidden beneath the guise of one boy's quest for his Personal Legend.
17 out of 23 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
OldBob
Posted January 11, 2009
I Also Recommend:
A very touching, meaningful, story with life lessons
As I get older, it seems I discover more about life. I'm 70 now. This is a book I wish I read years ago. You will learn things that I did and did not in this book, all of which will help you find your way through life. It is a great read too. Fun, hard to put down. Wonderful.
11 out of 11 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Wonderful Story
I originally read this book about 18 years ago after finding it in a small bookstore. At first I thought it was a children's book because the wording and tale was very simplistic. I'm so glad I read the entire thing. The story is uplifting and puts a smile on your face. Though it is a an allegory, the book is well-written and timeless. The character's journey through the desert is really a journey of self-discovery and growth - one that all of us need to take from time to time.
6 out of 6 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
The Alchemist is Okay; not great
This book was okay. I think the message of theis book is follow your dreams. I liked it; but I am not sure that I would recommend it. I enjoyed the imagery of The Alchemist. The story moved a bit slowly. It wasn't a page turner, but it wasn't a tough read either. The Alchemist is a nice fable;but, that's it.
6 out of 7 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
A Real Treasure!
Open this book and you will be on your way to a new adventure. An adventure beyond your wildest dreams. Talk about motivating...this is the ultimate motivator. This journey will remind you of the importance of endurance, strenth and above all loyalty. Its brilliant, my own little treasure!
5 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
skicat
Posted August 24, 2010
Awful, Awful, Awful
I know i'm in the minority when it comes to disliking this book. I loved the first 50 pages (which approximately 1/4 of the book since it only has 163 pages). After that author Paulo Coelho got a bad case of the repeats. I know this book is spiritual and i feel a little guilty about this review but I can honestly say this is one of the worst books I have ever read. On a good note I think I might have found my personal legend....not to read another Paulo Coelho books again,
5 out of 12 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Believe
Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy, has reoccuring dreams about a hidden treasure in the Pryamids of Egypt. Along his journey, he gets his life savings stolen twice, meets a Gypsy, a 'king', an Englishman and an Alchemist. Through Santiago's search for treasure, he learns the true meaning of life, and how humans and nature should help with one another to sustain the life of Earth. This book is very touching and is equipped with many of life's lessons. Although The Alchemsit is an easy read, the book is very ambigupus and can be veiwed upon in many different ways depending on the reader. I would recommend this book to anyone.
5 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
TLeopard
Posted September 11, 2010
got bored
skimmed through the last 100 pages. the end was cliche and a bit of a let down.
4 out of 14 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Girl-from-Zzyzx
Posted June 25, 2010
There's nothing here you haven't already learned
I can't understand what all the excitement is about surrounding this book. Yes, it is a story of self-discovery and remaining true to one's dreams, but there's nothing here that's new. The message is simplistic and superficial, and delivered in a heavy-handed style. As literature it is weak. There is no character development to speak of. The writing is repetitive and tedious, as though intended for children who often need to be reminded of key points. The fairy tale style is engaging at first, but is not enough to sustain interest. The best thing about this book is that it is very short.
4 out of 7 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Anonymous
Posted June 19, 2007
Boring
The idea of the story: a young man setting out on an adventure, in search of a treasure that seems to be a real mystery was intriguing. In the 1st 2 chapter you get the main idea of the story quickly, it¿s about searching within and find your destiny, listen to all that is around you for your life ahead is already written in your personal legend. Great concept, but to keep going on and on about it in every chapter was very repetitive!! It seem like the author didn¿t think we were smart enough to remember what a personal legend was in the 1st couple chapters, so he had to repeat it in Every chapter. The whole adventure part of the store dies with to much talk about personal legends and languages of the world sico philosophy .
3 out of 6 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
With all the hype I expected more.
I expected this book to be a great read because of all the tremendous hype. I wanted to loved it, but I found it boring, empty, and repetitious; so I found myself skimming through page after page just to finish it.
The book has some notable pages out a of nearly 200 pages. On numerous occasions the book tries to make the point that any person with what the book calls a "Personal Legend" can derive for themselves, from just living.
The metaphors are empty, and repetitious. I found myself rolling my eyes every time I read a corny metaphor.2 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Charming Perspective on Way of Life
Charming little tale of fate, will, luck, & spiritual enlightenment. Symbolism galore with subtle religious references. Offers an insight into one's purpose on earth and reason to live, as well as urges others to discover their "personal legend".*
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
YaHaYa
Posted July 29, 2010
A type of book that comes once in a while
The book is one of the most touching and inspiring books one have ever read. I am recommeding it to my friends!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
k80sbooks
Posted July 20, 2010
A little book with a simple message.
This is a short read with a simple yet thought provocative message. Following the story of a sheepherder we learn that life is about following dreams and living your authentic truth. When we decide to follow a dream or take a risk the universe tries to help us along.
If you like Ekhart Tolle, Siddhartha, Carlos Castaneda you will love the message in this book. I just wish it had been a little longer.2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Anonymous
Posted June 13, 2010
I Also Recommend:
Not just a fairytale...
The Alchemist is an uplifting and inspiring story of a boy in search of his "Personal Legend". A young shepherd named Santiago sets out in search of a treasure, along the way discovering himself and learning about the harmony of the universe. The Alchemist teaches readers to always have faith in oneself and never lose sight of your dreams. In the story, the author says that when you want something, the entire universe helps you achieve it. We are all meant to succeed in life and get what we want out of it because the universe must remain in harmony. We are given signs, omens, that we must learn to read and understand in order to successfully complete this journey called life. Ultimately, The Alchemist teaches us that anything we want is within our grasps, all we must do is believe that we can achieve it.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
dungeon_master
Posted May 13, 2012
The book The Alchemist is an exception read. You follow the jour
The book The Alchemist is an exception read. You follow the journey of a boy named Santiago on his journey to achieve his Personal Legend. While reading, you are forced to reflect on your own personal journey through life. At a plethora of moment you feel as if you are besides Santiago, making his decisions. This book is not only a good story but also teaches the reader valuable lessons. You won’t be let down by The Alchemist.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Humanities2
Posted February 27, 2012
Great Book
The Alchemist is about and Andalusian shepherd boy named Santaigo who leaves Spain to find a hidden treasure. Along the way he meets a gypsy, a man who calls himself a king, and an alchemist all who point Santiago in the direction of his quest. No one knows what the treasure is or if Santiago will be able to overcome the obstacles along the way. The story of Santiago teaches us of the importance of listening to our hearts to make decisions. It makes you think about things differently and why certain things happen, like good luck. It is a great book and you must read it. The beginning is intriguing and mind blowing.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Anonymous
Posted October 13, 2011
Spiritual adventure
Top 5 favorite book of all time.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
Great Book- For Some!
The Alchemist is amazing but I doubt that every one who will read it can understand the meaning. First, the quest for self satisfaction of being able to follow one's dreams. I like that part since you can apply it on our day to day life. However, the part where Coelho tells us that when we have a dream and the world conspires for us to achieve it somewhat unrealistic, right?I don't know if it is just me, but this is a really good book regardless. Thumbs up!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged. -
orrin33
Posted September 7, 2011
good message
It's nice to read something so uplifting.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.
