I had been looking forward to read ‘The Alchemist’ for a very long time till I finally decided to buy it. Before I begin, let me tell you this is one of the books which I read word-to-word in the past couple of weeks (And I recommend you to do the same, if you intend to read it too). Paulo has very cleverly weaved some great wisdom in this amazing piece of fiction. It is very hard for a book to keep me interested till the end, this book did!
Personally, I was fascinated with the alchemist (character). I would love to meet such a wise man myself. My curiosity elevated to its peak when the alchemist challenged the bandits, “This boy will turn himself into wind, or else our lives are yours.” Spoiler: He actually does! (How? Read the book and find out.)(Press “Ctrl” + “A”, if you wish to read the spoiler)
The book feeds the reader with spiritual wisdom and at times showcases Paulo’s sense of humor. In one situation the boy contemplates while thinking about his flock:
“They are so used to me that they know my schedule,” he muttered. Thinking about that for a moment, he realized that it could be the other way around: that it was he who had become accustomed to their schedule.”
The starting of the book may look vague but it is sure to hook your interest till the last page, including the epilogue. 😉 I realized that there was one point which, if I put across positively was emphasized; and negatively, felt very repetitive at times. The same point was used in a Bollywood movie ‘Om Shanti Om’ and has emerged as a very famous dialogue. The dialogue is (in hindi): “Kehte hain ki …… Agar kisi cheez ko dil se chaaho to puri kayanat usey tumse milane ki koshish mein lag jaati hai.”. The English version from the book is: “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
One of the aphorisms given in the book that I agree to and have personally experienced is: When you possess great treasures within you, and try to tell others of them, seldom are you believed.
I rated THE ALCHEMIST 
stars and would recommend it to anyone who is up for a journey to their own personal legend.
Manhardeep Singh 