Reviewing this novel is difficult, since the opinion varies w.r.t different perspectives of looking at it.
Based on Substance:
‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho – can be looked upon as a novel for good reading or a book to enlighten.Unfortunately it did’nt help me in either. Not that its a bad book, the reason might be that I tried this too late in my life. 5 years back which could have been an epitome in life is reduced to just understanding the author.
Three reasons for my unfavourable opinion:
This novel sounds biased on the doctrine of destiny.
Causes me a state of deja’vu, with its principles.
It ’Preaches’ more than it ’Teaches’.
Still this book allows the reader to know one perspective in the relation between ’life and destiny’. This is a good read to those interested in understanding philosophies in a simple way. But one peril is that it may push the readers to a narrow frame of mind.
COMMENTS
If you’ve read ‘The Alchemist’ watch ‘Forrest Gump’, it gives an entirely different perception of DESTINY.
Based on Subsistence:
On the basis of ’pursuing the dreams’ its definitely a good novel. You want a motivator which can turn-on your nerves to make you achieve your goals, this book is worth reading but still has its limits when the ’rationalising’ aspect is accounted. However the author’s effort to motivate needs to be appreciated.
COMMENTS
Read it. Know it.
TAGLINE
Likability - Depends!!
PS: The effect of this novel varies completely from one person to another. Reviews for this novel should never be taken as a standard. My review is my opinion only. This novel might have a good impact on you like it did to many others. If ’yes’ you gain, if ’not’ you’ve nothing to lose. Worth giving it a try. So read it.