Monday, July 8, 2019

Audiobook Review: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho


Standalone
Unabridged
Published: Dec. 26, 04
Publisher: HarperAudio
Narrator: Jeremy Irons
Length: 4 hrs.
Source: Hoopla/Library

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.
My thoughts:

If you have read anything by Joseph Campbell then you have heard of the typical heroes journey which many books follow in one way or another and this book is a prime example of this journey. Santiago is questing to find a treasure which is both external and internal. The story also teaches how to listen to your self and to recognize opportunities leading to your personal treasure. It does it in a non preachy way. It also teaches that sometimes losses can be in itself a win and that the road to your treasure is not an easy one, but that life will help you on your journey if you recognize the signs.

I think this is why it has spoken to a lot of people when it was published. My favorite part is knowing that the road is not smooth. That not everything goes perfectly your way just because you are on your journey.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I did enjoy it but it didn't quite capture me the way it has other readers. The journey is a bit uneven but that may be due to translation of the book. Still a worthwhile read. I think that Jeremy Irons does an excellent job narrating and his voice really pulls you though the quest. I would definitely listen to another book by this actor.
πŸ’Ž

14 comments:

  1. Oh I confess that I didn't know about this one

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  2. Glad you enjoyed this even if it wasn't the hit you were expecting. Wonderful review!

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  3. I haven't read this author but glad you enjoyed it somewhat.

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  4. A lot of people have recommended this book to me to be honest but for some reason I keep procrastinating!

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  5. I’ve heard about this book for years but have just never felt led to pick it up. Interesting that it’s narrated by Jeremy Irons! I haven’t heard anything about him for years and didn’t know he did narration work.

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  6. I do recall when this came out there was a lot of hub bub. But I never did read it. Nice review!

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  7. This one has been on my TBR list for years! Everyone seems to instantly love it. I've started it once, but I couldn't get into it. It may be worth another go now.

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