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  • The Alchemist

  • A Fable About Following Your Dream
  • By: Paulo Coelho
  • Narrated by: Jeremy Irons
  • Length: 4 hrs
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (8,205 ratings)
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The Alchemist cover art

The Alchemist

By: Paulo Coelho
Narrated by: Jeremy Irons
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Summary

Paulo Coelho's enchanting novel has inspired a devoted following around the world. This story, dazzling in its simplicity and wisdom, is about an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago who travels from his homeland in Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of treasure buried in the Pyramids. Along the way he meets a Gypsy woman, a man who calls himself king, and an Alchemist, all of whom point Santiago in the direction of his quest. No one knows what the treasure is, or if Santiago will be able to surmount the obstacles along the way But what starts out as a journey to find worldly goods turns into a meditation on the treasures found within. Lush, evocative, and deeply humane, the story of Santiago is art eternal testament to the transforming power of our dreams and the importance of listening to our hearts.
©1988 Paulo Coelho (P)2005 HarperCollins Publishers
Literary Fiction Metaphysical & Visionary Career Change New Age Spirituality
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Critic reviews

"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." (Publishers Weekly)

"It is short, but certainly packs a wallop. What makes the story even better is Jeremy Irons's unforgettable narration.... Irons's voice is crystal clear, and every word is given its own starring role in the text. He creates wondrous characters, male and female, that stay with us." (AudioFile)

What listeners say about The Alchemist

Average customer ratings
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  • 4.5 out of 5 stars
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  • 2 Stars
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  • 1 Stars
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Profile Image for Laura Critchley

Thought provoking

Thought provoking tale. Will help those who feel they have lost their path in life.

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Profile Image for Jacob

Excellent - definitely recommend

totally engrossing, brilliantly narrated and I would recommend this to anyone with a bit of time on there hands. it's a short story with a big impact.

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Profile Image for bigmog

Such an unusual book. I found it hugely inspiring.

i feel that I am living for my legend just like Santiago. it is a wonderful story that is also a self help book on how to live a good life

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1 person found this helpful

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Profile Image for Amazon Customer

thought provoking

loved it. got to the end and really wished for more. good read. ! !

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Profile Image for Jayendra

A life changing book!

This book if properly understood can change your life. I Believe it will change mine shortly! All the best!

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    5 out of 5 stars
Profile Image for AD
  • AD
  • 29-07-16

instant favourite

Lots of powerful metaphors that make you think about what you really want out of life

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Profile Image for dalzwils

I have listened to this more than once

Love, love, love this ❤️❤️❤️ and I have listened to this more than once. You are in got a treat!

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Profile Image for M.Kitchen

Inspirational and soul nourishing

This is one of the most inspirational books I have ever read. It was gifted to me and at a perfect time too and I love this book so much. If you are open to the story and the meaning behind it, it is likely to be very meaningful for you too...

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Profile Image for natasha

A must read

one of my favourite books. highly recommend. I've read this book twice and will definitely read it again.

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Profile Image for jane

Strange

This is a book that I would never have read myself but , listening to Jeremy Irons voice, I was transported & thoroughly enjoyed it. Audible has pushed me to read outside of my normal comfort zone & im thankful for that.

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