I love fantasy books where there are kings and queens who ruled kingdoms; where magic is nothing but an ordinary skill; when science isn’t always right. But out of all magical beings (witches, wizards, sorceresses, etc.), I was not impressed by “alchemists”. So they can turn metal into gold, if I were a witch/wizard/sorceress I could do that too. xD But maybe it was because I was angry that I couldn’t always watch that one anime where alchemy was the main idea and I would always get confused whenever I could watch because I hardly understood the story. (Take note that I’m talking about Full Metal Alchemist here.)
The cover of “The Alchemist”
So when I was asked to write a book report, I wasn’t so excited. Although I have heard quite good praises for the author (Paulo Coehlo) from my English teacher so I gave it a shot anyway.
The story was not what I was used to but it was okay. The message was beautiful and the ending managed to surprise me, which is something I really appreciate in any book (I like to predict what’s going to happen next whenever I read books.) Anyway, the story is basically about Santiago who has recurring dreams of finding treasure. So, thinking that it’s “prophetic”, he begins his adventure. He talks to a gypsy and she tells him that there is treasure in Egypt. He also meets Melchizedek (King of Salem) who tells him that “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” So he goes off to find his “personal legend” and meets an alchemist in Egypt who teaches him that “Those who don’t understand their personal legends will fail to comprehend its teachings.”
I won’t tell you how it ends but I thought it was so awesome and totally unexpected but it was the perfect end to such a wonderful story.
ANA'S BOOKSHELF 