“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a short and sweet parable of a boy who sets out to find his “Personal Legend.” He starts off as a sheep herder who is called to find treasure at the pyramids in Egypt. He sets out on his journey and meets several different types of people along the way who all provide support and guidance for him discovering his Personal Legend. The boy also runs into various conflicts along the way from thieves to war in the desert. The boy learns throughout his adventures to listen to his heart, look for signs, trust the Universe, pursue his goals, and discover the treasure within.
“The Soul of the World is nourished by people’s happiness. And also by unhappiness, envy, and jealousy. To realize one’s Personal Legend is a person’s only real obligation. All things are one. And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
I’ve listened to this book as well as read it. It’s a great quote-able and inspiring novel. I liked how simple and profound it was. It’s also a quick read. It was originally written in 1988 by a Brazilian author but did not gain much traction. It took until the late 90s and some celebrities seen with it before it really exploded. Paulo Coehlo was interviewed on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday Podcast here and here.
Read this book if:
- You are interested in an inspiring novel on achieving your dreams and finding purpose
- You are a young adult setting off into the world
Coelho, P. (2014). The Alchemist. London: HarperCollins.