The Alchemist
by Paulo Coelho
A shepherd boy follows a dream to the pyramids and learns about personal legends, omens and the soul of the world. It is a fable, simple and lyrical, and it has sold more than most novels in history. Readers either find it profound or saccharine; its message, pursue the dream and the universe conspires, is comforting and unprovable.
Read it if…
you want a gentle, inspiring story to read in an evening.
Skip it if…
you want practical guidance; it is a parable and promises nothing concrete.
Three things you will actually use
- Name the dream.
- Expect the journey to be the point.
- Notice the signs you have been rationalizing away.
Do this first
Write your 'personal legend' in one sentence and the first omen you have ignored.
Our verdict
A beloved fable; nourishing or sweet depending on your appetite.
Compare with other Mindset books
The Happiness Advantage
Shawn Achor · Mindset
Cheerful and practical; a good introduction to positive psychology.
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Outliers
Malcolm Gladwell · Mindset
Engaging and oversimplified; worth reading for the perspective.
CLICK TO SEEBrowse all Mindset book reviews or get the free Reality Code Cheat Sheet.
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