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The Alchemist

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988

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Book Brief

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Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Andalusia, Spain • Unknown

Theme
Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

910L

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Super Short Summary

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a novel about Santiago, a shepherd from Andalusia, who dreams of finding hidden treasure near the pyramids in Egypt. Guided by omens and a fascinating cast of characters, including a gypsy, an old king, an Englishman, and a powerful alchemist, Santiago embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, eventually realizing his own Personal Legend.

Inspirational

Contemplative

Hopeful

Fantastical

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.3

3,341,596 ratings

69%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist receives praise for its inspiring narrative and profound themes of destiny and personal legend. Readers appreciate its simplicity and philosophical depth. However, some criticize it for being overly simplistic and predictable. Overall, it remains a beloved, motivational tale for many.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Alchemist?

Ideal for introspective readers and fans of self-discovery narratives, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho appeals to those who enjoyed Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse or The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. This reader appreciates philosophical themes, allegorical storytelling, and the search for personal legends.

4.3

3,341,596 ratings

69%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Andalusia, Spain • Unknown

Theme
Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

910L

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