Have you ever read a book that made you question the world around you, the life you’re leading, or your very existence? Before reading The Alchemist, I didn’t really think a book could impact me in such a way. Of course I read lots of books that challenge my thinking, educate me about new topics, or motivate me to strive for something better, but I can honestly say that The Alchemist does all this and more.
Since I haven’t quite finished the book yet (hence the Part 1), I’m just going to give you a very brief synopsis and leave you with some of my favorite quotes so far. Then I’m going to go read more so I can write up Part 2 for y’all. 
The Alchemist is by Paulo Coelho. It’s actually one of the best-selling books in HISTORY. The beautiful fable follows a young boy who yearns to find the hidden treasure that keeps appearing in his recurring dream. He decides to leave the simple life that he has grown accustom to and search for that treasure. On his journey, he learns about omens, Personal Legends, and the Soul of the World. I would say more, but I don’t want to ruin it for those of you who have not read this wonderful book yet (shame on you 
).
In a nutshell, this book is amazing, inspiring, and magical. You may be wondering, “Well, if it’s so great, why has it taken you so long to finish?” My answer to that would be…I don’t want the adventure to end. I want the wisdom on the pages to stay with me forever (yes, it’s that good). In Part 2 of this post, I’ll definitely explain in more detail how this book relates to me, but since I’m not done, I don’t want to go there quite yet.
I want to end this post with some of my favorite quotes from the book (so far)…
- “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
- “Courage is the quality most essential to understanding the Language of the World.”
- “At a certain point in our lives, we lose control of what’s happening to us, and our lives become controlled by fate. That’s the worlds greatest lie.”
- “In order to find the treasure, you will have to follow the omens. God has prepared a path for everyone to follow. You just have to read the omens that he left you.”
- “I don’t live in either my past or my future. I’m interested only in the present. If you can concentrate always on the present , you’ll be a happy man. Life will be a party for you, a grand festival, because life is the moment we’re living now.”
Just typing up these quotes sent a shiver down my spine. The Alchemist is a gem of a book, and I really really really hope that I have at least made you consider reading it at some point. You may not find it to be so powerful, but I guarantee that it will cause you (even for just a few seconds) to see the world through a different lens.
Have a wonderful night!
What are some books that have had a similar impact on you? Have you read The Alchemist? Tell me what you think!!!
Now I have to add this to my list!
Do it and lets discuss!!!
This is one of my all time favorite books; I as well read it slowly, because I looked forward to reading it each day.
I’ve had this book sitting on my shelf forever and I haven’t read it yet! You’ve definitely made me want to read it though. 🙂
I want to read it! I need to get book-wormy again =) I love reading <3 blogs took over for a while
I loved Alchemist. I did not want to end the book for two reasons, one the wisdom takes a while to seep in and consume you. Second, I really did not want it to end. Overall it really made me think. The first quote you listed here, is my all time favorite. I have it printed and put up over my desk.
I love this quote: “I don’t live in either my past or my future. I’m interested only in the present. If you can concentrate always on the present , you’ll be a happy man. Life will be a party for you, a grand festival, because life is the moment we’re living now.” So much time which could be better spent LIVING is wasted mourning what could/should have happen or anticipating what will happen. Here’s to living for the present!
I’m so interested in this book now. I love finding new reads, so hopefully I remember to pick this up when I finish my current book.
I will definitely have to order a copy of this. I just finished reading “Heaven Is For Real” (which was very cute btw) and need something new and exciting to start. Thanks for sharing!
I really tried to read this book but I simply couldn’t get past the first chapter! Not sure why but it just didn’t click for me. I am going to give it a second try now thanks to your positive review.
I think that not wanting a book to end is the best sign of an awesome book. I feel like that all the time!
I have read The Alchemist and loved it! A beautiful story!! I feel like I’d appreciate it even more the second time around.
I started this book (like a chapter in, or something short like that) – left it somewhere (a hotel, I think) and purchased a second copy and never finished it! I’m definitely going to read it now! I can’t wait!
I HAVE this book on my book shelf, why haven’t I read it yet?!
Loving all these quotes! I’ve never read that book, but it looks awesome. I’ll have to give it a go 🙂
Thank you for sharing! I added this to my reading list too 🙂
I beyond loved The Alchemist. I thought it was beautiful and incredibly moving. I want to read it over and over. It really makes you open your eyes, your mind and your heart doesn’t it??