A delightful story, and full of wisdom. Influenced me in pursuing what I dream about, and rediscovering my "personal legend" as he calls it.

This book has some interesting nuggets on spirituality, one of which is God is within people who are happy. However, the book was also corny at times, such as when people talk to their hearts and their hearts talk back to them. The ending is really worse than most books, because it's almost like the "it was all a dream" that most books avoid. Surprisingly, it's the non-spiritual aspects of the book that are more interesting than the spiritual aspects of the book. It is more interesting to read about the boy making money at the crystal ware shop than about the Soul of the World. The crystal ware shop owner is the most interesting character in the book, because he does not plan on going to Mecca in his life even though he is a Muslim. So he is the most non-spiritual character in the book which makes him the most interesting. Admittedly, I am not a spiritual person, so I was prepared to not like this book, but this book was a disappointment for me because the bar had been set so high (by all the positive reviews for this book). Ultimately, the book is a debate between which theory is truer: free will or determinism. The book leans more toward determinism because it believes in destiny. I however believe in free will.

The book is titled "The Alchemist" but the alchemist is not the main character in the book. The main character is the little boy who is a shepherd, so it should have been called "The Shepherd".

This little book brought me joy it gave me an escape from the cluter of everyday life and allowed me to travel with the shephard boy. It is written beautifully and it flows so easily. It is a must read. It gives you a wonderful read but it allows you to step back and breathe and put some perspective on your life, with the simple act of taking you out of the bustle of life for a little while.

An inspirational book about a boy's journey of transformation. Deceptively simple and easy to read, this book illustrates beautifully the concepts of spiritual growth, finding the true self, and following our own destiny.

Reading this book, I had to keep stopping and thinking about the implications. While at the surface the book seems to be a simple story, the implications are much deeper.

This is a very simple story about Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who dreams of a treasure under the Egyptian pyramids. After meeting a strange old man and a gypsy fortuneteller, Santiago sets out for Egypt determined to find his treasure. Along the way, he learns spiritual lessons from an Algerian shopkeeper, an English scholar, and finally the eponymous alchemist.

I am a fan of deep, complicated characters, and this book has none (AT ALL). It's like a self-help book turned into a story, and I'm sure many people will find it deeply moving...... until the next fad comes along. (Jonathan Livingston Seagull, Prayer of Jabez, Chicken Soup for the Soul, The Secret, etc.) I will be really surprised if this book has any staying power.

This book was recommended to me by a friend. I really liked this book and since then have become a fan of the author. This book had a lot of hidden spiritual messages. make sure you take your time to read this book slowly and appreciate what it offers.

After reading all the great reviews I thought this book might be engaging/interesting/enlightening. Boy was I wrong. After reading on and on and on about all these strange terms I was expecting some type of revelation or meaning to present itself; but instead, it was a frustrating and pointless read. A major play of words without any real substance.

In addition, the story itself was boring and juvenile with no development of the characters (I had no picture of who they were and did not care what happened to them).

I can't comprehend anyone who's read other books giving this 5 stars.

The other one star reviews are right on...

I was really looking forward to read this book having heard so much about it. I was utterly disappointed. Quite honestly, I am puzzled how this book earned such rave reviews ("will change your life" etc.). The book is simplistic, naive, cute maybe. It reminded me of the time when my mother read stories to me when I was a little kid. I would rate it with zero stars if I could. The book is thin and you can read it easily within two days or one if you got the time. I would not waste my time on it.

The Alchemist

Coelho writes as though he were painting the pages with a bright colored world, each word exquisitely chosen to flow together with those around it. No modern fiction writer has a better masterly of language.
In The Alchemist his artistry with words combines with his gift for story telling to create a fantastic journey. We follow a quest for self-discovery through varied lands, seeking a dream as much as its fulfillment. While the tale itself may seem simple or familiar, it is one with which everyone can relate. This universality of theme is what has branded it a classic.
But for me, it is still the beauty of the language that has made me a life long Coelho admirer, starting with this book.

A true classic. This book is also being taught at Tamalpais High School in Marin County, California. I recommend it highly.

"The Alchemist" is a great story with many hidden gems. Throughout the book Santiago is searching for his treasure, yet as I read this book the words within it can be all of our treasures. In life, we all have strange little events that happen to us, "gut" feelings that lead us in a certain direction. Those are the Omens. If we just pay attention to the little things and understand what others are telling us, we too can "speak to the wind and the sun" - from a certain point of view.
The "Alchemist" is an interesting story that also has some insightful life lessons. I would recommend this book. I enjoyed it.

The Alchemist is a wonderful book that integrates fiction into philosophy. I would highly recommend this book to those who live their lives with depth and faith.

Very enjoyable. Easy read and easy to follow through the story. Nice twist at the end.

There are some simple and nice ideas in the book which perhaps would work for kids under 10. For adults the concepts discussed are naive and the storyline is simplistic and character development is thin. I was very disappointed.

After reading "The Alchemist", I gave the book to both my children. My son has just graduated from college, and my daughter is a sophomore, and in many ways this book distilled a message I have been trying to teach them in one way or another since they were very young. Although the setting and the story is exotic for many of us (the story is about a young Andalusian shepherd boy who leaves everything familiar to go in search of a "treasure" in Egypt) the message is universal, eternal and very simple. That message is to live your Life consciously and thoughtfully in order to determine the path your Life should take.

My own life has been amazing. Like the young shepherd, I left everything that was familiar to me and I allowed myself to be guided by my own strong yet inexplicable feelings, signs and omens, doors that opened unexpectedly, and people I met along my path. As a result, I met and married my Soul Mate in a country not my own, and have two children who have brought immeasurable and unspeakable joy to me.

But you have to be willing to have faith, to believe in yourself and the voice of your heart. You even need to occasionally disregard the so-called good advice of people close to you in order to do something which at first makes no sense, something not entirely easy to do, and that is discussed in "The Alchemist" as well. For me, this book was astonishing and affirming because I immediately appreciated the Truth of it. I felt compelled to pass it on, hoping that all my "teaching moments" could take the form of a simple parable, to be remembered and renewed, for years to come.

As others have demonstrated, this is not the book for everyone, just as there is no universal religion or view of the world. Because it was written by a Brazilian, there are language traits, cultural perceptions and beliefs which are alien and might bring discomfort to many people who live in the United States. But for others who really believe they are here for a purpose, this little book is nothing but encouraging.

I do agree that the author can be quite redundant. This could be due to the fact that it has been translated. Had the original been written in English, I am sure the author would be able to spice up the diction a bit.

Even though it was simply written, it evoked such imagery; I found that I could not put the book down. It was quite entertaining, and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I have a feeling that I will read it again in a few years, and have an even better understanding of its meaning, and its reflection on my life as well.

..that is, if you have one (I'm surprised by some of the reviews on here). If you have a soul, imagination plus depth and life experience, you will find this book delightful. If you don't not possess these qualities you will be lost. You definitely have to had your share of dark moments in your life to understanding the message that the book portrays: one of hope,struggle,patience and faith. Overall, very easy read and well worth your time. Your soul will thank you.

Maybe this book is somehow better read quietly on your own. We heard so many good things about it that we read it as a family. We were rolling on the ground laughing at the lame conversations with the boy, his heart, the wind, etc. If you are seeking good life advice, read Ben Franklin's autobiography and his selected writings. But life is far too short to waste any of it on this silly tale.

Loved this book and I am having my boy teenage boys read it. Just wish I had read it when I was there age. A must for anyone on the side lines !

My best friend recommended that I read this book, so I bought it, read it. I love it! I wish schools would recommend students to read this book.

This makes a great graduation idea. A simple, timeless, classic about the fact we're always searching when what we need is right where we are.

If you want to read about a search for the self in easy to read short stories, Hesse's "Siddharta" or "the Pearl" by John Steinbeck are far better (both are Nobel Prize winners). Hesse's "Narcissus and Goldmund" is a lot better even than Siddharta, but it is a novel, not a short story. If you like the the story presented in a fairy tale format Michael Ende's "The Neverending story" and "Momo" are far more entertaining.

It is obvious I did not particularly liked this book, despite all the high recommendations I got from it. The good thing is you read it in a weekend. I found nothing resembling an alchemist in this book (a mix between scientist and magician). The character presented in this book sounded more as a spiritual Guru.

I bought 2 of these books as a gift for students entering college as part of a required reading before the semester starts. Purchase price beat all the local bookstores.

lots of psychology in this one, it really wants the reader to fulfil their potential and chase their dreams. if you ever need inspiration to achieve a goal, this book is a great read

A fable, a mystery, a hidden treasure...what is there to not like!? I actually listened to this on my way to and from picking berries (so far I have picked over 70 lbs., for our family and friends) I was immediately captivated by the tale of a boy, a Shepard who follows a dream of reached potential to a land faraway and unknown. He leaves what he does now, and what is comfortable to reach what may not even really be there. I cannot resist the talk of omens, and personal legends, and magical stones and dreams, and love which so saturates the pages of this short novel.

Personally I enjoyed listening to it, it felt like an ancient tale told to me by a Egyptian storyteller. I felt the beauty of the language and the force of the legend.

However if you are not into dreams, and somewhat mystical tales...sit this one out, because that is what it is. I wonder though, if those of you who are not would be won over by the smooth words of Coelho. It is always worth a try! I loved it, and completely recommend it :) I haven't ever read a Paulo Coelho book before, and now I am a Cohelo believer, I am interested in what other really good books he has written.

This is a very inspirational short novel about a boy who seeks his fortune. It discusses the idea of the life journey as a "personal legend" that everyone must create for himself. It shows you how to listen to your heart; listen to God. It's very spiritual in that way. The book makes one think about his/her own life journey and the "omens" they may encounter.

Along with Leo Buscaglia, Og Mandino, Thich Nhat Hanh and Lin Yutang; I think that Poalo Coelho has become one of my favorite inspitational authors.

"The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is an eloquently written & magical story, compelling, & with wisdom about following your heart.

The plot line is psychologically intense & portrays a dramatic journey; the quest to fulfill your destiny/Life Legend. Universal wisdom abounds with a radiant array of fascinating & colourful characters!

Here's a few quotes from Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" for some insight into the essence of the book:

1. "It's a force that appears to be negative, but actually shows you how to realize you Personal Legend. It prepares your spirit and your will, because there is one great truth on this planet: whoever you are, or whatever it is that you do, when you really want something, it's because that desire originated in the soul of the universe. It's your mission on earth."

2. "Don't forget that everything you deal with is only one thing and nothing else. And don't forget the language of omens. And, above all, don't forget to follow you Personal Legend through to its conclusion."

3. "If I can learn to understand this language without words, I can learn to understand the world.

4. "In alchemy, it's called the Soul of the World. When you want something with all your heart, that's when you are closest to the Soul of the world. It's always a positive force."

5. "All things are the manifestation of one thing only."

"The Alchemist" is a life-enchanting book, and most highly recommended!


Even better when read together with a recent, contemporary New Energy novel "Nexus" by Morrison & Singh; a soul-stirring, heart-centered, spiritual adventure story about enlightened transformation!

Nexus: A Neo Novel

If I had to pick up a book after reading Joseph Campbell's book, "The Power of Myth," this book was definitely a good follow-up. While still entranced by Campbell's storytelling and passion for ancient myths, this book entranced me as well. I finished this book in a day (which is literally impossible for me these days), so it should tell you that this is a simple read.

This book was also lent to me by my dad who did not care for this book at all (he read this after finishing "Kiterunner" which he did enjoy), but he wanted me to read it. The story is beautiful, simple and short. I have not heard the hype of this book nor did I know what it was about.

The seemingly simple story of a shepherd leaving all he owns behind to explore the great world resounds with me. The idea of Soul of the World resounds with me also. Following your personal dream and living life to the fullest. These all are lessons that I keep forgetting in the normal day-to-day drudge of daily life. This is a simple story that keeps reminding the reader that there is more to life than just what is here in front of one's eyes. This is a story of listening to your heart and moving forward to find the dreams of youth again.

While this is not the best book I have ever read, it is a pretty good story that is pretty much duplicated by many other stories floating around. I almost gave it a three-star but decided it was good enough for a four-star simply because I enjoyed a pleasant afternoon of reading this book, which I rarely get these days.

7/25/08

I love this guy Coelho. He does an incredible job of making complicated concepts of spirituality and mysticism more understandable. Or at least makes you think about these deeper. There is a lot of symbolism and philosophy in this book. One subject that is hidden in the text is the (reference to) the Sufi concept of ONENESS of BEING or "Wahdat-ul-Wujood". Some sort of Pantheistic view you can say. One can read poet Rumi to see the same tale written 700 years ago. Another subject that is very well given to the reader is a sense of interfaith/intercultural dialog, that we are all going to live on the same planet and we better learn how to treat each other well... But you have to explore the book for yourself. And make sure your spirit is that of Santiago, the shepherd boy, who can be like the winds!

Cute story. Reminded me of Siddhartha. A sheep herder goes on a journey to find purpose in his life, treasure, love, and finds it.

"The Alchemist" I read because it's been recommended to me more than any other book in my life, it's passed my gaze on bookshelves of friends. I'm glad it's over.

I can finally say I've read the epic hyped out novel about a guy who learns to intuitively guide himself through life paying attention to omens and people with wise things to say who are good at magic.

An easy read. A little over an hour. Not too much flash. Lots of spiritual guidance type substance. A dallop of God and manipulating nature with inherent psychic abilities stuff. Camels.

This is the equivalent of a caffienated soft drink. Goes down easy. Uplifting. Enjoyable. Not much in the way of long-term effect. But not a waste of time and money.

A good read if you are stuck, depressed, demotivated. Might get you out of the rut and back on track.

As far as the premise that the universe conspires to give you what your heart desires... People make their own luck. If you are passionate about something, you will work harder and perform better at those tasks than if you dread your work. It's not the soul of the universe at work. It's your own heart and soul bringing out the best in you. How can this not increase your chances for success?

My father picked up this book when he was in Japan and told me I might be interested in reading it. But, to tell you the truth, sometimes it seems like my dad can be far off, but other times he can be spot on. This time, he was right. I couldn't put the book down as soon as I started reading it. I realized that I was much like Santiago and am on the journey to fulfill my personal legend. People tell me that wanting to follow my dream is crazy, but this has really opened my eyes and has made me pursue my dream even more. I would recommend this book to anyone that is interested in listening to their hearts and following their dreams. It has changed my life, and I hope that it reaches many more.

This a short book essentially about a boy who parts from an ordinary life when fortune teller tells him his destiny is to find treasure at the pyramids. This book was translated from Portuguese which could be why the book is written in such a basic way, but that doesn't account for this book being such a run-of-the-mill plot. The thing people will like about this book is it is inspiring in that it shows that perseverances triumphs. A little too basic for me though.

If you are very naive/idealistic you may like this book and its simplistic message. "Do what you really want to do and the world will conspire to help you achieve it." That's a pathetic message.

It doesn't matter how much you want something, what matters is how hard you work for it. The world does not conspire to hand you things because you feel they are your destiny. The only way you achieve your dreams is through hard work. This book's message encourages you to stumble along toward your dream and it will magically happen for you.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this magical story of Santiago who was seeking an adventure and dared to follow his dreams. He learned many lessons and acquired wisdom along his path of exploration. This book is written simplistically, but captivates you and draws you into the storyline in a powerful manner. The story setting in the majestic mountains of Andulusia are described as a beautiful place in which Santiago pursued his dreams and found hidden treasures. It is a book that is powerful and provactively written, a good read.

I'm extremely disappointed with 'The Alchemist.' One thing is for sure, I simply had to put the book down half-way through because I couldn't stop cringing at the writing. Now that I'm perusing the reviews of the book, one common denominator of even the 5-star ratings is that even they say the book is "simple."

Maybe I couldn't finish the book because I had heard so much positive word of mouth over the years. Maybe I just had the book hyped up to be some profound read, and instead it was just trite. If you'd like my opinion, for a more eloquent read, I highly recommend anything by Kahlil Gibran and Hermann Hesse's Siddartha.

"Simple things are the most valuable and only wise people appreciate them."

This book is enchanting when you read it, you will get wrapped up in it and possibly finish it in a single session. After you have finished, wait a week. Then try to remember anything about the book. Truth is, you probably can't. Now go and pick up a copy of Siddartha by Herman Hesse. Read that. Wait a week. See if you can remember anything about it. Chances are, you probably can.

The story centers around the journey of Santiago, who dreams of seeing the Egyptian Pyramids, and his journey to find them, and through observing and following omens it follows a general "rites of passage" which has the same feel to it as the One Thousand and One Arabian Nights.

This book gives you a quick fix, very similar to the inspirational feel you get when you thumb through a self-help book in the bookstore, and become inspired by. Equally, now, you probably cannot remember the name of the self-help book, but is that a bad thing? Who can tell. As Coelho demostrates "when you really want something to happen, the whole universe conspires so that your wish comes true". The book bubbles with similar sentiment.

Therefore, not a great book, but a quick read and not likely to do any longterm harm.

This book is enchanting when you read it, you will get wrapped up in it and possibly finish it in a single session. After you have finished, wait a week. Then try to remember anything about the book. Truth is, you probably can't. Now go and pick up a copy of Siddartha by Herman Hesse. Read that. Wait a week. See if you can remember anything about it. Chances are, you probably can.

This book gives you a quick fix, very similar to the inspirational feel you get when you thumb through a self-help book in the bookstore, and become inspired by. Equally, now, you probably cannot remember the name of the self-help book, but is that a bad thing? Who can tell.

Therefore, not a great book, but a quick read and not likely to do any longterm harm.

Have you ever dreamt to living out your wildest dreams and then talked yourself out of it? Are you unsure about taking that leap of faith and beginning your journey to greater self-discovery? If you answered, "yes" to either question, then please read on because The Alchemist is a book you'll want to sit back and enjoy.

The Alchemist has been a best selling self-development fable for twenty years. Brazilian author Paulo Coelho takes both the reader and the main character Santiago on a mystical journey of self-realization. In this novel of self-discovery, we learn that with faith, belief and action dreams really may come true.

The Alchemist is a well-written novel that weaves a fascinating tale of a young Spanish Shepard boy who leaves his country, his lively-hood and family in search of hidden treasure. This story mixes an interesting combination of magic, spiritual wonders, friendship, disappointment and life changing adventures.

The moral of this story: When you stay true to yourself and your destiny in life, the wisdom and power of the universe open up to you and your dreams.

Summary:
Told by a gypsy woman and a "king" that his fortune awaits him at the Pyramids of Egypt, Santiago the Shepard boy leaves his home in Spain to seek his life's treasure.
He is told that when a person wants something badly enough and believes it is their destiny to achieve it, the universe conspires to make it so. It is important, the king tells him, that he keep a lookout for and acts upon the "omens" that will show him the way.

Along this exotic journey in a foreign land he is robbed of his money, meets an educated Englishman who shares the dream of learning the secrets of the alchemist, finds the love of his life and ends up being the one chosen to be shown the ways of the wise "alchemist."

Santiago's journey for material treasure turns into a life changing spiritual transformation. He learns how to use his courage, inner faith and belief to discover the true treasures in life. Sometimes, your treasure is closer to home than you think.

My Recommendation:
This book is about understanding and listening to your heart and trusting your intuition. It is also about realizing that "things" may not always as they appear. In one way or another we are all Santiago the Shepard boy. The Alchemist is the universal tale of the journey we take in life - those life-changing journeys that test of our faith, belief and determination in our desire to live our true destiny.

If you're on a journey of self-discovery and inner wisdom, you'll appreciate this fable because it not only entertains but also teaches the life lesson of never giving up on yourself or your dream of personal greatness. The Alchemist is a great mix of self-discovery and fiction. It's good reading!

My book club choose this: it was so bad, I stayed home so I wouldn't hurt the hostess's feelings. Hated it: reminded me of Jonathan Livingstone Seagull. I like business self-help books, in moderation, but nothing in here struck me a relevent.

the alchemist is one of the best books i've ever read! it's simple yet has a very deep meaning.. it's also touching and inspiring. i keep thinking about this story over weeks & months after i read it. i discuss it with my friend hersanto (he wrote a review about this book, too) who happens to love this book as well.

"when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it."

this is story about journey of pursuing dream. i give this book 4 stars because it is very inspiring, the story teaches us to have courage following our dreams. the story is well written, simple and fun to read. this is a kind of book that is good to accompany you when you are in journey

Coehlo's prose is simple and eloquent and in the first pages there is a promise of a riveting story about self-discovery. However, it turns out Coehlo's new-age message is old, almost cliche. I kept thinking of the Alchemist as Obi-wan and Santiago as a slightly less annoying Luke Skywalker. I felt the climactic scene was when Santiago "transformed" into the wind, but even that reminded me of a children's book.. that one where the little bunny says he'll run away from the mother bunny but she says she'll transform herself into the wind or other elements to find him? So in that way, I found the book beautiful in its simplicity, irritating in its "spiritual message" and disappointing as its plot fell flat after Santiago left the crystal shop. Oh well... after all, there is "nothing new under the sun..."

"The Alchemist" is a delightfully inspiring journey as it transports you into a boy's journey to discover himself, to learn his own narrative. Each one of us is on a journey toward finding our own "Personal Myth" and in today's world where self-reflection has often taken a back-seat to being out-there, the search is even more imperative.

This book can be read at many levels from a superficial read to in-depth uncovering of the dreams, symbols and signs present in the novel. The main message of the novel is that we need to follow our dream and through following it we will arrive at our true destiny, our unique part in the fabric of creation.

The novel is the story of Santiago, a boy who courageously follows his dream. He travels the world looking for a hidden treasure and in the end discovers that the real treasure is in his heart. The author explains his ideas in a simple language.

Those who follow their dream or "personal myth" find happiness, fulfilment and achievement in the life. While those who lack the courage to follow their dream, live a life of sadness, emptiness and dissatisfaction.

"The Alchemist" is a wonderful read! Best read together with another story about following your dream, "Nexus: A Neo Novel."

"Nexus" by Morrison & Singh follows the journey of a unique mix of people drawn to a spiritual retreat where they learn important spiritual lessons. It's an inspiring read about people looking to overcome pain in their life.

I definitely recommend "The Alchemist" and "Nexus: A Neo Novel." Happy readings!

AMAZING book. Beautifully written and easy to read with so many inspirable quotes that makes you want to find your own "personal legend".

As a rule, I'm not into self help books. I'm especially not into them when they are disguised as novels, but Coelho's books are different somehow. He comes from such a sincere place, and his prose never comes across as preachy. This is spirituality in its purest form. SIMPLICITY. This book is not beyong anyon'es grasp and allows the reader--any reader a chance at spiritual enlightenment. The book can be taken on many levels. It is an engaging read, but also a roadmap. Calling this a book is an injustice. It is a guide, and from time to time we all need to be guided.

First, this book is a quick and easy read. At just under 170 pages, it shouldn't take up much of anyone's time.

I found on the surface, the story itself flowed very well and I easily followed the main character through his travels to the end of his journey. If nothing else, I found pleasure in reading a clear, simple adventure that takes the reader on a journey.

Intermixed with this story the author uses his story to insert his religious beliefs and ideas about the nature of our world. I didn't necessarily agree with all of them, but again, I think his message was a very simple and direct one. If you follow your dream, you can't fail. I happen to believe that. No matter how hard the journey, if you believe strong enough in something, you will persevere. Even if you don't believe in the spiritual/religious ideas he presents, I think most people can respect and understand perseverence and following your own path no matter what the obstacles.

I think the beauty of this book is that it hits you at multiple levels, story, personal journey, religious faith. You aren't forced to "buy" into the whole package to come away with being touched by this story.

I actually own the original Brazillian Portuguese versions of all of Paulo Coelho's books, including this one, O Alquimista (The Alchemist). Every one of his novels is a wonderful experience and if read at the right times in your life can be life changing. Having read Diary of a Magus (O Diaria de um Mago), Brida, and The Alchemist all at the right time in my life I find he is a beautiful writer, inspiring and soul lifting. He reminds me somewhat of Max Lucado in his ability to write to the soul and leave you renewed by the end of the journey. I truly suggest him for those searching for an unknown something. He may help you find it. Be open and accepting of the voyage. Enjoy the view along the way. The destination is worth it.

A shepherd boy in Spain has a recurring dream about the Great Pyramids in Egypt. He consults a gypsy dream interpreter to figure out what it all means, and she tells him he will find treasure there. He meets an old man who corroborates the prediction and talks to him about following his "Personal Legend", so he sets off for Egypt, and his adventures begin...

...And then something goes horribly wrong. The book is hijacked by an overbearing and ridiculous spiritual/New-Age message: "I learned that the world has a soul, and that whoever understands the soul can also understand the language of things." "When you want something, all the universe conspires to help you achieve it." It would be tolerable if those bits were just sprinkled in here and there or if they weren't presented such a blunt manner, but every page has laughably ridiculous lines, and the author seems absolutely serious about it all.

That said, I did not hate the book. I found the story to be fun, and some of its "life lessons" were poignant. For example, in Tangier, the boy helps a crystal shop owner achieve some business success, and the crystal shop owner says, "You are forcing me to look at wealth and at horizons I have never known. Now that I have seen them, and now that I see how immense my possibilities are, I'm going to feel worse than I did before you arrived. Because I know the things I should be able to accomplish, and I don't want to do so."

The writing is clear and simple. I don't know if this is primarily due to the translator, but I found it really easy and almost refreshing. It's a quick read, so even if you hate it, you won't have wasted too much time.