Young Santiago searches for the
meaning of life and happiness as he travels from his homeland in Spain to the
great deserts of Africa. Where he encounters strange and wise people that help
shape his journey, mind and future. This book explains the true meaning of:
perseverance, working hard and focusing. Many times Santiago did not know where to go or
why in many cases but he wanted to find his treasure and have a better life.
That is what motivated him to push through. Although it was hard and it often
is when you are moving ahead with your life you have to think what is more
important? Santiago had to leave his sheep and the woman of his dreams to find
his treasure which is difficult and shows how strong you have to be at times. It was
about not only chasing your dreams but how to let go of the worldly things that
try to get in your way.
What I learned from this book is
that in order to obtain happiness or reach your goals in life there is a price
to pay. What really stood out to me in this book that I could relate to was when he met the woman of his dreams and continued to go to Egypt. This relates to me because life it is about sacrifice and I have sacrificed a lot to be where I am; I have no regrets but it is hard. So I understand what it is like to move forward and hope that your sacrifice was worth it; like Santiago hoped Fatima was worth it and would remain loyal to him. Whether it’s losing all your money, working at a poor job to make ends
meet or giving up the one you love. It is up to you to determine how much is
enough when you’re in the pursuit of your dreams. Sometimes it is best not to
know where you are going or how you are going to get there; they may be all
that you need to make it.
What I didn't like about this book was that it was a bit unclear at times. I don't know if it was written that way on purpose, but towards the end when Santiago was speaking to the sun and wind it was hard to pick up; I had a hard time understanding. That was the only thing that I didn't really like about it other than that it was awesome! I loved everything else about it, the message, the order, the twists and the length. It was a simple yet a meaningful read. It is a great book to read at any point in your life it is always useful no matter what.
This book was an amazing read; it opens your eyes on so many things. This is a good book to read anytime but especially if you are trying to decide which path you should take in life as far as your career or dreams are concerned. It teaches its readers about determination and inner-self. I would recommend this book to teens and adults. If they had made a simpler version I would recommend it to children. I would most definitely recommend this book to a friend I am sure that all my friends would find this book it would be very helpful in their daily lives. This book helps you not worry about the unnecessary aspects of life and focus on the present because it truly is a gift.
In a land of dreams
To find his soul and some means
For treasure and gold
Astounded by what he knows
To the pyramid
Where his dreams and goals may lie
Or back home again
To wonder why his dreams died
Never stop or quit
Body and soul, well equipped
This young boy must find
What this windy desert hides
Misfortune and keeps
His love of life and his sheep
Something he must keep
Santiago travel far!
To find your true love
To find the purpose of life
Nothing can stop you
Make sure you find the true you!
Bianca,
ReplyDeleteGood review! I think that your critique is honest and that the ending of the book, when Santiago turns into the wind, is very confusing the first time around. I think that Coelho makes this part a bit difficult to understand, on purpose, because it's hard to detail how the universe (and miracles) work. He does an interesting job of going from the wind to the sun to the soul of the universe.
When Santiago realizes that he's part of it all, as a whole, he is able to "turn into the wind".
I think it's a profound moment of pure connection - to whatever you believe in.
It was a moment of surrender and connection.
Excellent poem. I love how you addressed it to Santiago - almost rooting him on in his quest. Very creative.
GR: 93