The Alchemist, By Paulo Coelho
(Reviewed by Dom)

Paulo Coelho makes no bones about the fact that he was a 60s hippie and seeker. Born and raised in Brazil, he wound up working in theatre and the music industry, but always carried a deep desire to write. This month’s book club selection is his most famous work, originally published in the late 80s. Twenty years later it has sold tens of millions of copies.

The Alchemist is a fable, an enchanting story of Santiago, a shepherd boy in Spain who has a dream about discovering his treasure at the Pyramids (yes, Coelho capitalizes this throughout the book) of Egypt. He sets out on a long journey, the first of multiple metaphors throughout the book.

Along the way he encounters several characters who not only aid him in the quest for his Personal Legend, but who impart wisdom and lessons that help Santiago grow. It’s not all good, however, for the shepherd boy meets danger and disaster more than once. … (more…)