Alchemist

 Paulo Coehlo's The Alchemist is an awesome book.  In essense, the book is about a young boy named Santiago that goes on a quest for treasure that he had dreamed about.  His journey was shaped by the people he met and the things he learned along the way.  By the time Santiago had reached the treasure, he was a changed man, with a different outlook on life and the world around him.  He learned a lot about alchemy, he learned about different walks of life, and he also learned a little about love.  All of the experiences he had re-shaped his entire life.

The part of the book that really hit me was when Santiago met Fatima at the well in the oasis, on his way to the Pyramids.  This probably has to be that I'm a sucker for a good love story, so I found myself paying extra attention.  In addition, there were some ideas that were introduced when Santiago and Fatima spent time together that were introduced for the first time in the book.  The ideas of love without ownership and true love were something introduced at this time.  These were ideas that really made me focus in on the reading.

Overall, I really like the book.  It's many themes and and symbolism kept me interested throughout the reading.  The character development of Santiago throughout the book is awesome too.  Watching him transform and learn was inspiring.  He is an admirable character from the get-go, and watching him grow was awesome.

I'd recommend this book to anyone that wishes to have a good read.  I think it's a good read for anyone, because it is easy to follow along and can keep a reader interested.

An interesting book indeed,

Containing a lot of symbolism.

Lessons can be learned,

As long as you pay close attention.

Santiago was an admirable character.

He showed desirable personality traits.

He showed willingness,

He showed strength.

He showed courage,

He showed love.

His openness to life and all of its lessons,

Is an example for all of us.

He persevered when times were rough,

He showed faith during times of tribulation.

He was open to getting more in touch with himself,

And getting more in touch with his spirit.

He let the people around him mold him, 

And make him into a better man.

He triumphed at the end,

Finding his treasure,

And discovered that God had a funny sense of humor.