What a cracking little book The Alchemist, by Paul Coelho is. The version I have just finished was on audio, narrated by Jeremy Irons, and the text and his voice made the experience one that will stay with me for a long time. Do not be fooled by the relatively short length of this book - it has deep, deep themes. The central character is constantly referred to as "The Boy" rather than by his name. He is a shepherd in Andalusia, quietly content in many ways, learning about life through his sheep. He became a shepherd because he wanted to travel, but he's only ever done so within Andalusia, moving his sheep from pasture to pasture as the seasons come and go. Then he meets a gypsy who tells him that he will find treasure at the pyramids in Egypt. He dismisses this particular bit of fortune telling until an old man strikes up a conversation with him and tells him the same thing ... at the same time, telling him everything about The Boy's past, including things he'd never told anyone. The Boy decides that he needs to pursue his dream of further travels, or his "personal legend" as it s referred to in the book, and sells his sheep and gets on a boat to Tangier, crosses the
Egyptian desert where he encounters "The Alchemist", who helps to bring him to the end of his journey of discovery. The Boy is helped along the way by many guides (not all of them in human form) who keep him on the right path and teach him how to hold on to his dreams and strive to fulfil them. Gentle, thought provoking and with the ability to take you to far off places both physically and spiritually, this is a fabulous read, no matter what your personal beliefs may be. I loved this book and know that I will reread it - particularly when I might be feeling a little down or lost. Follow your heart and live your life!
My STAR rating: FIVE.
Length: 197 print pages.
Price I paid: £7.99
Formats available: print; unabridged audio download; unabridged audio CD.
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