73 pages • 2 hours read
Paulo CoelhoThe Alchemist
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a novel about Santiago, a shepherd from Andalusia, who dreams of finding hidden treasure near the pyramids in Egypt. Guided by omens and a fascinating cast of characters, including a gypsy, an old king, an Englishman, and a powerful alchemist, Santiago embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, eventually realizing his own Personal Legend.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist receives praise for its inspiring narrative and profound themes of destiny and personal legend. Readers appreciate its simplicity and philosophical depth. However, some criticize it for being overly simplistic and predictable. Overall, it remains a beloved, motivational tale for many.
Who Should Read The Alchemist?
Ideal for introspective readers and fans of self-discovery narratives, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho appeals to those who enjoyed Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse or The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. This reader appreciates philosophical themes, allegorical storytelling, and the search for personal legends.
RecommendedReading Age
14+yearsLexile Level
910L