The Alchemist in Ultimate Popsugar Reading Challenge

Mar 11, 2011 Brandi rated it liked it

Shelves: hardcover-feedback, books-for-grown-ups, 2011

Why does this always happen? Every time I read a best-seller or a super-popular book, I end up less than impressed. I did admire the story. It was reminiscent of Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea, but not nearly as boring. Santiago tries to fulfill his Personal Legend of locating treasure at the Pyramids, similar to the old man's, who is also named Santiago, attempt to catch the great fish in Hemingway's story. I did enjoy The Alchemist more than Hemingway's story, however, I felt the same slo ...more

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Feb 01, 2008 Elissa rated it it was ok

Shelves: read-in-2008

The philosophical points laid out in this book are largely flawed and somewhat offensive to me. That being said, I give it 3 stars because the philosophy is laid out in a beautiful, simplistic story that could have been charming had I not been shaking my head at most of the overarching themes.

This book teaches that each person should pursue his own "personal legend" and that that is how he learns about himself and grows and finds his "hidden treasure." That sounds great, but the book also teach ...more

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Jan 03, 2008 Melissa rated it really liked it · review of another edition

I was surprised that I liked this book. I normally don't like self-help-and I hate books on religion. My mom suggested I read it...she has all of his books and is a self-help, religion guru. For the first chapter or so I was very skeptical, but then I was definetly intrigued-and then couldn't put it down.It did obviously touch on religion and self-help, but not too obnoxious about it, it seemed to be very well hidden in a great story. I thought it had great life lessons all throughout and I feel ...more

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