Within the past year I have read four books by Paulo Coelho. He has become one of my new favorite authors. Many people always recommended that I read “The Alchemist”, so I figured I’d give it a shot. I soon discovererd that Coelho’s style was simple, yet vivid; poetic, and direct. The kind of reading that the young and old alike can enjoy. The kind of stories that can change your life. Coelho’s books are never just a story. There is always a deeper meaning to them; a lesson to be learned.

“The Alchemist” is a story of following your dream. Your Personal Legend. It is the story of a shepherd; Santiago, and he is on a quest. He is looking for a treasure buried in the Pyramids of Egypt. He encounters a strange man, the alchemist, and discovers the true meaning of alchemy, and what it really means to turn base metal into gold. “The Alchemist” is an enchanting tale, a fable about the power of pursuing your dreams and following your heart. Coelho’s first novel sparkles with magic and mysticism. It’s life-affirming message is an inspiration to me, and it’s millions of copies sold is a testament to the wisdom of the Brazilian novelist. An excellent introduction to this very talented writer.

After reading “The Alchemist”, I was hooked. I picked up “By The River Piedra I Sat Down And Wept”. An incredibly moving book, Coelho’s fourth novel is full of intrigue and mystery. It’s a story of forgiveness. It’s a lesson on miracles and the meaning of life. Pilar, an independent woman, bored with the monotony of her daily life, is contacted by a long lost friend. She is surprised and intrigued to find out that he is now a charismatic spiritual leader and a much changed man. A series of unexpected encounters leads her on an unexpected path. A path filled with joy and sorrow; a path which inevitably re-ignites her passion for life, with it’s infinite possibilities. Reading this novel was like entering a trance, and I shall never forget the lessons hidden within: life is a miraculous adventure if we can only step aside and succumb to the rhythm of creation. I cannot recommend this book enough.

Soon after, Coelho’s book “The Pilgrimage” found me. “The Pilgrimage” is Coelho’s true life adventure. It recounts the time the author spent on his own quest, searching for his sword, the key to his spiritual power. He is led on a fantastic pilgrimage across Spain on the legendary Santiago de Compostela path, with his mysterious mentor, Petrus. Along the way he learns a set of spiritual exercises used by the Regnus Agnus Mundi (RAM) order, of which Coelho and his mentor are a part of. After many spectacular trials and lessons learned, Coelho’s journey reaches a climatic end, along with knowledge gained of the true source of his power. A fantastic adventure; I may soon have to set out on a pilgrimage of my own.

The last of Paulo Coelho’s novels I read was “The Fifth Mountain”. It is the story of the biblical prophet Elijah, and his trials and temptations in following the path God has set out before him. After all of the prophets are ordered executed who will not worship the pagan god Baal, Elijah must flee Israel. His life takes on many unexpected struggles in his search for truth, as a whirlwind of events lead him places he never dreamed of. This beautifully written tale is an inspiration to always move forward in the face of adversity, and a reminder to never lose faith in life and love.
Paulo Coelho is one of the bestselling novelists ever. His books have been translated into 42 different languages. His story telling style masterfully blends the mystical with the ordinary; always pointing the way to a deeper and more meaningful truth. His stories are born of the world of spirit; using fable and metaphor to open the hearts of his readers. Reading Paulo Coelho, you can’t help but look at the world with fresh eyes, from a perspective that embraces the magic that is all around us. I highly encourage any and all to discover this fantastic and moving author. His novels have done for me what few others have. I am truly inspired to pursue my own Personal Legend, while embracing a life of compassion, love, forgiveness, courage and wisdom. These are the gifts of Paulo Coelho.

We have many used and new copies of Paulo Coelho’s books in stock and any that we don’t have we would be more than happy to order them for you.

Thanks for reading!
Have a beautiful day!
Matt