The Alchemist

A Fable About Following Your Dream

By: Paulo Coelho

Narrated by: Jeremy Irons

Length: 4 hrs

Publisher's 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

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)

I love this book. If you're a dreamer then you know what I mean

During an internship in college I gave this book to the CEO of the company (also my mentor) because it had such a profound effect on me. He loved it so much that he asked me spend a whole day with him and sit through executive meetings etc. I learned a lot that day. It was an omen.

Dreams matter.

One book I recommend to every young person who has a dream and is willing to listen to their heart.

A Classic story narrated by a master

I have to admit I am not a patient reader of long descriptive passages in any book or even of 'fables' per se, but when narrated in the mellifluous tones of Jeremy Irons, I was transported and listened avidly to the end, enjoying this gentle story. I would defy anyone to turn him off.

That is why I am such a fan of listening as opposed to reading as I carry my phone everywhere I go and turn it on at every opportunity plus am offered such a diverse variety of choices. There is never time to actually sit and read during the day so can get most chores done without guilt. Thank you.

Inspiring and highly entertaining

I have read this book a couple of times and also gave it away as gifts before. In several years, I have rediscovered it in audible format. It was a delight. I was so grasped that I almost listened to the whole book in one seating.

I like the story and I find Jeremy's performance very entertaining. Jeremy really put his emotions into the different roles and brings the story to life. I found myself relating to the story more than when I was reading the book, wondering what comes next and smiling when I reach a good part. Jeremy is a great storyteller.

I'm sure I'll find myself listening to it again sometime. Makes me feel like a child again.

Great book

I loved this book. It really made me think and wonder to all the omens overlooked In my life. This book has made me more open and aware to everything around me. Thank you Mr. Coelho!

Absolutely exciting and very relatable

This book will make you appreciate any adversity you've been through and seek out a new or better journey for yourself and really accept living your life for you. Love this book

Beautiful story

This is the second time I have attempted to read this book and listened and read and it was absolutely worth it.

Cristina Mackey was here

Easily my favorite book. What a beautiful message. This is a lesson I will always repeat. Thank you for this read.

One of my favorites

Absolutely love this book!! Jeremy Irons narrating it made it come alive!!! If your thinking about it getting this book, DO IT!!!

Wonderful and enthralling

Jeremy Irons was lovely to listen to and combined with the content and messaging within this story makes for a magnificent experience that can be revisited time and again. This always leaves me recommitted to being ever so much braver, more intentional, and keen to progress in the ways my heart is whispering to me.

I really enjoyable listen that flew by

it was just a great story that was told perfectly. it was nothing that distracted from it which allowed me to really get into the story. Jeremy irons might be the best narrator I've heard thus far on audible.