Combining magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder into an inspiring tale of self-discovery, The Alchemist has become a modern classic, selling millions of copies around the world and transforming the lives of countless readers across generations.
Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined. Santiago’s journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and, most importantly, to follow our dreams.
Editorial Reviews
Review
“It’s a brilliant, magical, life-changing book that continues to blow my mind with its lessons. […] A remarkable tome.” — NEIL PATRICK HARRIS, ACTOR
“[This] Brazilian wizard makes books disappear from stores.” — New York Times
“A beautiful story with a pointed message for every reader.” — Joseph Girzone, author of Joshua
“A touching, inspiring fable.” — Indianapolis Star
“A sweetly exotic tale for young and old alike.” — Publishers Weekly
“A remarkable tale about the most magical of all journeys: the quest to fulfill one’s destiny.” — Anthony Robbins, author of Awaken the Giant Within
“[His] books have had a life-enchanting effect on millions of people.” — London Times
“An adventure story full of magic and wisdom.” — Rudolfo Anaya, author of Bless Me, Ultima
“A wise and inspiring fable about the pilgrimage that life should be.” — M. Scott Peck
“A most tender and gentle story. It is a rare gem of a book.” — Gerald G. Jampolsky, M.D., co-author of Change Our Mind, Change Your Life
From the Back Cover
Paulo Coelho’s enchanting novel has inspired a devoted following around the world. This story, dazzling in its powerful simplicity and soul-stirring wisdom, is about an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago who travels from his homeland in Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of a treasure buried near the Pyramids. Along the way he meets a Gypsy woman, a man who calls himself king, and an alchemist, all of whom point Santiago in the direction of his quest. No one knows what the treasure is, or if Santiago will be able to surmount the obstacles in his path. But what starts out as a journey to find worldly goods turns into a discovery of the treasure found within. Lush, evocative, and deeply humane, the story of Santiago is an eternal testament to the transforming power of our dreams and the importance of listening to our hearts.
About the Author
Paulo Coelho, born in Rio de Janeiro in 1947, is one of the bestselling and most influential authors in the world. The Alchemist, The Pilgrimage, The Valkyries, Brida, Veronika Decides to Die, Eleven Minutes, The Zahir, The Witch of Portobello, The Winner Stands Alone, Aleph, Manuscript Found in Accra, and Adultery, among others, have sold over 175 million copies worldwide, and The Alchemist has been on the New York Times bestseller list for over 360 weeks.
Paulo Coelho has been a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters since 2002, and in 2007, he was appointed United Nations Messenger of Peace. He is also the most followed author on social media.