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The Alchemist Kindle Edition

4.6 out of 5 stars 166,048 ratings

AN INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER • OVER 80 MILLION COPIES SOLD WORLDWIDE

“Translated into 80 languages, the allegory teaches us about dreams, destiny, and the reason we are all here.”—Oprah Daily, “Best Self-Help Books of a Generation”

“It’s a brilliant, magical, life-changing book that continues to blow my mind with its lessons. [...] A remarkable tome.”—Neil Patrick Harris, actor

A special 25th anniversary edition of the extraordinary international bestseller, including a new foreword by Paulo Coelho.

Combining magic, mysticism, wisdom, and wonder into an inspiring tale of self-discovery, The Alchemist has become a modern classic, selling millions of copies around the world and transforming the lives of countless readers across generations.

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.

“A magical little volume.”—San Francisco Chronicle

“[This] Brazilian wizard makes books disappear from stores.”—The New York Times

“A sweetly exotic tale for young and old alike.”—Publishers Weekly

Due to its large file size, this book may take longer to download
Popular Highlights in this book

From the Publisher

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The Alchemist Deluxe Edition
Maktub
The Alchemist
The Alchemist: A Graphic Novel
The Pilgrimage
Warrior of Light
Customer Reviews
4.6 out of 5 stars 166,048
4.4 out of 5 stars 257
4.6 out of 5 stars 166,048
4.5 out of 5 stars 1,638
4.4 out of 5 stars 3,746
4.5 out of 5 stars 4,396
Price $18.19 $16.32 $10.19 $15.69 $10.49 $10.59
A beautiful keepsake edition of the extraordinary and beloved international bestseller—now featuring elegant gold edges and a textured jacket with gold foil detailing. Maktub (meaning “it is written”) is not a book of advice—but an exchange of experiences, a journey of faith, self-reflection, and transformation. One of Oprah's Best Self-Help Books of a Generation. The story of a young shepherd who learns to listen to his heart, read the omens strewn along life’s path, and follow his dreams. One of Oprah's Best Self-Help Books of a Generation. Illustrated by Daniel Sampere, The Alchemist is the story of a young shepherd who learns to listen to his heart, read the omens strewn along life’s path, and follow his dreams. The captivating account of Coelho’s pilgrimage along the road to Santiago. 150 short passages detail the spiritual and practical elements necessary for the attainment of the Personal Legend—the life-long path to a fulfillment of a dream.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

Like the one-time bestseller Jonathan Livingston Seagull, The Alchemist presents a simple fable, based on simple truths and places it in a highly unique situation. And though we may sniff a bestselling formula, it is certainly not a new one: even the ancient tribal storytellers knew that this is the most successful method of entertaining an audience while slipping in a lesson or two. Brazilian storyteller Paulo Coehlo introduces Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who one night dreams of a distant treasure in the Egyptian pyramids. And so he's off: leaving Spain to literally follow his dream.

Along the way he meets many spiritual messengers, who come in unassuming forms such as a camel driver and a well-read Englishman. In one of the Englishman's books, Santiago first learns about the alchemists--men who believed that if a metal were heated for many years, it would free itself of all its individual properties, and what was left would be the "Soul of the World." Of course he does eventually meet an alchemist, and the ensuing student-teacher relationship clarifies much of the boy's misguided agenda, while also emboldening him to stay true to his dreams. "My heart is afraid that it will have to suffer," the boy confides to the alchemist one night as they look up at a moonless night.

"Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself," the alchemist replies. "And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams, because every second of the search is a second's encounter with God and with eternity." --Gail Hudson

From Publishers Weekly

This inspirational fable by Brazilian author and translator Coelho has been a runaway bestseller throughout Latin America and seems poised to achieve the same prominence here. The charming tale of Santiago, a shepherd boy, who dreams of seeing the world, is compelling in its own right, but gains resonance through the many lessons Santiago learns during his adventures. He journeys from Spain to Morocco in search of worldly success, and eventually to Egypt, where a fateful encounter with an alchemist brings him at last to self-understanding and spiritual enlightenment. The story has the comic charm, dramatic tension and psychological intensity of a fairy tale, but it's full of specific wisdom as well, about becoming self-empowered, overcoming depression, and believing in dreams. The cumulative effect is like hearing a wonderful bedtime story from an inspirational psychiatrist. Comparisons to The Little Prince are appropriate; this is a sweetly exotic tale for young and old alike. 50,000 first printing; $50,000 ad/promo.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00U6SFUSS
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ HarperOne; 25th ed. edition (February 24, 2015)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 24, 2015
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 10.4 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 213 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.6 out of 5 stars 166,048 ratings

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Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
166,048 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book engaging and thought-provoking, appreciating its timeless message of self-discovery and universal teachings woven throughout the story. Moreover, the narrative reveals great adventures, with interesting characters and meaningful quotes throughout. However, the writing style receives mixed reactions, with some praising its meaningful quotes while others find it overly preachy. Additionally, customers disagree on the book's age range, with some considering it great for all ages while others note it's required reading for 8th grade. The pacing receives negative feedback, with customers finding it awkwardly boring and repetitive.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

4,955 customers mention "Readability"4,691 positive264 negative

Customers find the book highly readable and enjoyable, describing it as a sweet story and must-read, with one customer noting it's a simple read about following dreams.

"...The Alchemist has become my favorite book, introduced me to my favorite author, and brought back my joy of reading...." Read more

"Beautiful messaging, written with simple, elegant language. It’s almost like an elevated children’s book and I mean that as a compliment...." Read more

"...For starters, the book was narrated by Jeremy Irons who did an amazing job! They could not have picked a better person...." Read more

"...Paulo Coelho’s storytelling is simple yet deeply profound, weaving a tale of self-discovery, destiny, and perseverance that resonates with readers..." Read more

2,515 customers mention "Inspirational"2,421 positive94 negative

Customers find the book inspirational, with its timeless message of self-discovery and universal teachings woven throughout the story.

"...The Alchemist has become my favorite book, introduced me to my favorite author, and brought back my joy of reading...." Read more

"...It’s almost like an elevated children’s book and I mean that as a compliment. I really enjoy the adventure and travel components of the story...." Read more

"...However, it did reinvigorate my belief in dreams. Hell, I've been a dreamer my whole life. And what do all dreamers know?..." Read more

"...book has made me ponder how i can better live in the moment and achieve goals, no matter how small, sooner rather than later...." Read more

401 customers mention "Adventure"296 positive105 negative

Customers enjoy the adventure in the book, describing it as an enchanting fable that reveals great adventures and helps readers chase their dreams, with one customer noting its many twists and turns.

"...characters that propel the protagonist towards a profound and satisfying ending...." Read more

"...And one more thing: while the twist at the end was clever, it disappointed me for two reasons: the first, for point I made above, but the second is..." Read more

"...You could. I attributed it to a boring story. There were no twists, no turns. Nothing interesting really at all...." Read more

"Fairy tales are stories that are often set in the past and have happy endings...." Read more

77 customers mention "Character development"58 positive19 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book, finding them interesting and noting that the main character encounters various challenges throughout the story.

"...The characters also see quite tolerant of other religions and of foreigners...." Read more

"...He meets a cast of fascinating, fun characters who share their wisdom, experience, and misadventures with the young shepherd...." Read more

"...The syntax made it easier for me to follow the story and follow which character was speaking and what they where feeling or doing...." Read more

"...there are some minor flaws in the novel including a lack of character development and a lack of commentary/analysis of some of the worldly concepts..." Read more

69 customers mention "Gift value"69 positive0 negative

Customers find the book makes a great gift, particularly for young children.

"I really enjoyed this book. Great book to gift to a friend or significant other!" Read more

"...The perfect gift for every child and grandchild." Read more

"...Thank you, it has been a gift through a difficult time." Read more

"...If you're looking for a thoughtful and cherished present, "The Alchemist, 25th Anniversary" edition is undoubtedly a fantastic choice." Read more

134 customers mention "Writing style"86 positive48 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the writing style of the book, with some appreciating the meaningful quotes and nice sentences, while others find it overly preachy.

"...There were many lines worth highlighting and remembering, especially when one might need some motivation...." Read more

"...a part in the story where it goes from page 35 to page 38 with very little dialogue, which I felt stopped progress of the story...." Read more

"...Her hands never touched me and her words remained kind, but her eyes clouded with anger. I fell back. I ran from the temple...." Read more

"...I like the journey aspect and the people he meets along the way. However, I didn't feel like the ending did the story justice...." Read more

100 customers mention "Age range"64 positive36 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the book's age range, with some finding it great for all ages, while others note it is required reading for 8th grade.

"A simple coming-of-age parable which, by means of its straightforward style, achieves profundity. This book has been touted for years...." Read more

"A bit juvenile, but a good read nonetheless. A fun story about a boy seeking something he’s not sure of." Read more

"...This story is in many ways the typical passage of adolescence into adulthood ...." Read more

"...Also, it is certainly suitable for children. I am sure middle-schoolers and high-schooler could take to this...." Read more

148 customers mention "Pacing"40 positive108 negative

Customers find the pacing of the book awkwardly boring and repetitive, describing it as cliché and not very relatable.

"...It stretched credulity, reducing Nature to a kind of repertory theater. I will speak further on this scene in a second...." Read more

"...It kind of fell flat for me." Read more

"...I am buoyant and soothed by this story of sacrifice." Read more

"...It’s a shame because it takes away from the overall experience. A little more care in production would’ve made a big difference." Read more

The Best Book 👍
5 out of 5 stars
The Best Book 👍
I have always loved The Alchemist as one of my favorite reads. Getting a 25th Edition is awesome 👍
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2025
    This book was referenced in a conversation with a friend, and I immediately decided I had to read it. Well, I had no idea how much meaning it would bring to me. It brought to me an entirely different lens through which to view life. The Alchemist has become my favorite book, introduced me to my favorite author, and brought back my joy of reading. I'm now over halfway through Coelho's works, and while none have hit me quite as strong as The Alchemist, they are all meaningful to me in their own ways. I cannot recommend this book enough.
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2025
    Beautiful messaging, written with simple, elegant language. It’s almost like an elevated children’s book and I mean that as a compliment. I really enjoy the adventure and travel components of the story. But ultimately the message was my favorite part — resonated with me as powerful, relevant and true
    5 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2017
    Everyone has talked about this book, from Madonna, Pharrell, and Oprah, to my mother. "Life-changing" is what I heard.

    As a reader, I couldn't resist. It's a book and I love books.

    From the start I could see that this would be a book I could sink my teeth into. I started out strong, but I kept getting distracted by...everything. The phone, the television, kids, my husband, you name it.

    Days went by and I hadn't gotten past the third chapter of this very short book that I wanted so desperately to read. Then it hit me! Download the audiobook.

    I began listening to The Alchemist during my long car rides throughout the city. I feasted on Santiago's journey for two days until the very end. What did I learn? Was it as life-changing as I'd expected it to be?

    For starters, the book was narrated by Jeremy Irons who did an amazing job! They could not have picked a better person. His voice enriched the life of Santiago.

    The take away—it didn't change me, per se. I'm not ready to get off the path I'm already on. However, it did reinvigorate my belief in dreams. Hell, I've been a dreamer my whole life. And what do all dreamers know? It's hard, so hard to stay on the path to your dreams until you realize them.

    Just like Santiago, I have been knocked around by life. I have thought many times, Why write? Why not just continue working as an occupational therapist until retirement? Wouldn't that make life easier?

    Santiago also considered ditching his plans to seek his treasure to live out his life as a shepherd or work at a crystal shop until some ripe old age.

    How long is too long to stay on the path to your dreams?

    I began writing at the age of six. I would have my mom or one of my grandparents cut paper in half for me, and then staple the pages together. Then I would write stories about ants, bugs, and animal adventures in my first grade penmanship. When I turned nine, my mother bought me a thesaurus, a dictionary, and a typewriter. Not dolls or games. What nine year-old gets a typewriter for her birthday?

    Best gift, ever!

    In middle school I made up wild and ridiculously fun stories with me as the lead. It was a way of escaping my reality during those tough years. In high school, I began writing scripts. I loved script writing so much, I sent scripts in to NBC at the age of sixteen!

    When I turned 18 I gave up on my dreams to be "an adult". I listened to voices that were not my own. After college, I concentrated on marriage and kids. I was happy, but something was missing.

    In 2004, my passion came back to me. I started having the best dreams and I began writing them down. In 2005, I completed my first book! Did it become a bestseller? Nope.

    By 2007, I was taking a screenwriting class. I was like a teenager again. I took to it with renewed zeal. Without fear I sought representation for my scripts. Sent them to Disney. Did I make a movie? Sell a script? Nope.

    Fast-forward to 2017, now thirteen years on this path to achieve my dreams! And I have! Well, parts of it. I have indie-published four books, and a fifth one is on the way. I have a growing fan base! Wonderful ladies write to me or post on my social media pages that they love my series and my writing!! It feels amazing to read, and I always try to respond.

    Did I ever quit? Nope.

    Why, in the middle of this review did I share my own story with you? Because, I am Santiago. We all are. We are all born with talents and dreams! Every child has a desire and dream of what they want to be. Most of us give dreams up to become "adults". But why? Why can't we be that person? After all, childhood is the most raw, honest, innocent, unbiased time of our life! Who better to pick our destinies then our child selves?

    "Little D.W." chose my career—a writer. It has been a source of happiness, escape, creativity, passion, and love for me.

    I still have one foot in the rat race. Imagine how crazy I look right now, running in both directions! But I am Santiago, my treasure is so close that I can smell it, feel it, taste it! I am ready to jump out of the rat race with feet and run at full speed toward my dream.

    I am Santiago. You are Santiago! Do yourself a favor and pick up this book, it's short and sweet, yet packed with power. You may be a dreamer now or may have been a dreamer once upon a time. Whichever it is, if you are still in the rat race running toward nowhere, I recommend this book to get you back on track. Your treasure, whatever it is for you, is out there waiting for you to go after it!
    114 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on April 2, 2025
    The Alchemist was quite short, but filled with inspiration. There were many lines worth highlighting and remembering, especially when one might need some motivation.

    The plot deals with a young boy who has a reoccurring dream about treasure near the pyramids in Egypt. He bravely embarks on a journey to seek this treasure, which ends up mainly being the journey itself.

    I hesitated in reading this book because I’ve known it to be very religious and spiritual, of which i am neither. Nevertheless, the book did not seem to promote a specific religion, with mentions of both Catholicism and Islam. The characters also see quite tolerant of other religions and of foreigners. Although it can sometimes come off as preachy, I appreciate that the book is not trying to necessarily indoctrinate the reader to either religion.

    Instead, it seems Coelho is mainly trying to inspire readers in following their dreams or life purpose. One of my favorite lines is, “When he’s an old man, he’s going to spend a month in Africa. He never realized that people are capable, at any time in their lives, of doing what they dream of.” This line he made me teary eyed, and grounded me in the present. In that moment, i sat back and thought about all the plans i have once i have more money, time off from work, a better schedule, after im done potentially raising a family one day, etc. Of course I’ve always known life is short and i could theoretically go on a plane tomorrow. Yet, i dont, even if i want to.

    The risks in following one’s dream can make taking that leap impractical. The Alchemist appears at times to be idealistic. It tries to address the practical concerns by having Santiago work for his funds, which takes almost a year, and facing life threatening situations. Still, there are much more factors in reality such as taking care of loved ones, maintaining a career, nourishment, etc. Other factors such as poverty and danger are not really addressed in the book in a way that would quell one’s fears.

    But, i understand this is merely a tale and not an instructional manual. Despite issues rooted in realism, the book has made me ponder how i can better live in the moment and achieve goals, no matter how small, sooner rather than later. Relatedly, the line, “people not need fear the unknown if they are capable of achieving what they need and want,” did help calm my uncertainty and criticisms. There may be many unanswered questions in how to attain my goals, but i know i am capable! :)

    Overall, this was a nice, uplifting read.
  • Reviewed in the United States on February 1, 2025
    The Alchemist is more than just a book it’s a life-changing journey. Paulo Coelho’s storytelling is simple yet deeply profound, weaving a tale of self-discovery, destiny, and perseverance that resonates with readers from all walks of life.

    This 25th Anniversary Edition makes the experience even more special, with a beautifully designed cover and thoughtful extras that celebrate the book’s impact over the years. The story of Santiago’s quest for his “Personal Legend” serves as a reminder that our dreams are within reach if we have the courage to pursue them.

    Whether you’re reading it for the first time or revisiting it, The Alchemist is a must-have for anyone seeking wisdom, inspiration, and a little magic in their lives. Highly recommend!
    9 people found this helpful
    Report

Top reviews from other countries

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  • Seerut
    5.0 out of 5 stars A timeless and inspiring read!
    Reviewed in Canada on March 26, 2025
    he Alchemist by Paulo Coelho beautifully blends adventure, philosophy, and self-discovery. The story is uplifting and encourages following your dreams, making it a must-read for anyone on a personal journey
  • Carmen María Oca
    5.0 out of 5 stars El libro supera mis expectativas...Excelente calidad !
    Reviewed in Mexico on December 12, 2024
    Pedi el libro anoche a las 10 de la noche y lo recibo hoy por la mañana !!! Que hace AMAZON para dar un servicio impecable ? GRACIAS !!!
    Report
  • د.حازم محمد بدور
    5.0 out of 5 stars As described
    Reviewed in Egypt on March 3, 2025
    Original
  • Felix Sundberg
    5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring book
    Reviewed in Sweden on June 19, 2024
    An amazing and inspiring read, with a story that almost everyone can apply themselves to for a more emotional and deep attachment. Highly recommend to read this book, no matter who you are, or where you're going in life.
  • Lukas
    5.0 out of 5 stars Sehr inspirierendes und schönes Buch
    Reviewed in Germany on May 16, 2023
    "The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream" ist ein Buch, das mich tief berührt und inspiriert hat. Es hat mir in einer schweren Zeit geholfen und verdient daher von mir 5 von 5 Sternen.

    Die Handlung des Buches dreht sich um einen jungen Hirten namens Santiago, der seinen Herzenswunsch verfolgt und auf eine Reise geht, um seinen persönlichen Schatz zu finden. Auf dieser Reise begegnet er verschiedenen faszinierenden Charakteren und erlebt zahlreiche Abenteuer. Dabei entdeckt er nicht nur äußere Schätze, sondern auch die Schätze, die in ihm selbst verborgen sind.

    Das Buch behandelt tiefgründige Themen wie den Sinn des Lebens, das Streben nach Glück und die Suche nach dem persönlichen Schicksal. Es vermittelt wertvolle Lektionen über das Vertrauen in sich selbst, das Hören auf die innere Stimme und das Überwinden von Hindernissen auf dem Weg zum Erfolg.

    Persönlich hat mir "The Alchemist" in einer schwierigen Phase meines Lebens geholfen. Die Geschichte und die Weisheiten, die sie enthält, haben mir Trost gespendet und mich dazu ermutigt, meinen eigenen Träumen und Leidenschaften zu folgen. Es hat mich daran erinnert, dass jeder von uns eine einzigartige Reise hat und dass es wichtig ist, den Mut zu haben, dem Herzen zu folgen, selbst wenn der Weg ungewiss und herausfordernd erscheint.

    Die poetische Sprache des Autors Paulo Coelho ist fesselnd und voller tiefer Bedeutung. Die Botschaften sind einfach, aber kraftvoll, und sie haben die Fähigkeit, den Leser auf eine emotionale und spirituelle Ebene anzusprechen.

    Abschließend kann ich "The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream" uneingeschränkt empfehlen. Es ist ein Buch, das die Leser dazu inspiriert, nach ihrem wahren Potenzial zu streben und ihren Träumen zu folgen. In schweren Zeiten kann es ein leuchtender Leitstern sein, der uns daran erinnert, dass wir die Fähigkeit haben, unser eigenes Glück zu schaffen und unsere Bestimmung zu erfüllen.

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