A review by hhwanghyunjin
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

adventurous hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

"The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho had me hooked from beginning to end. The book tells the story of Santiago, a shepherd boy who embarks on a journey in search of his Personal Legend. Coelho weaves together themes of destiny, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's dreams in a way that felt both relatable and inspiring.
The story itself is both character and plot-driven, with Santiago's personal growth and development being the driving force behind the narrative. I appreciated the attention given to Santiago's flaws and the struggles he faced along the way, which made his eventual triumph all the more satisfying.
One of the few criticisms I had of the book was the lack of diversity among the characters. While I understand that the story is set in a particular time and place, it would have been nice to see a wider range of perspectives and experiences represented.
Overall, "The Alchemist" was a captivating and thought-provoking read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a lighthearted yet meaningful story.

“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” - Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist, page 22.
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