1) THE ALCHEMIST by Paulo Coelho

The first book in my 50 Books in 2013 project! I know that I am probably one of the last people on Earth to pick up a copy of this book, but I figured that, as a literature student, I should read this book.

As one of the most popular novels in modern literature, there has always been an argument as to whether or not this book deserves the praise it garnered upon its publication. After reading it, I was finally able to form my own opinions about it.

Is it overrated? Yes, but it is a very enjoyable read. The story of the Andalusian shepherd who leaves everything behind in order to fulfill his Personal Legend was very entertaining and inspiring in a fairy tale sort of way. There is also a lot of that well-loved mysticism which sets Latin American literature apart from the rest. However, I think that Coelho tried too hard to make the novel something life-changing and profound to the point where he begins to become somewhat preachy. Also, towards the end of the novel, the mystical aspect of the story began to feel a tad forced and cheesy. 
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The book is also full of wonderful and inspirational quotes. I took note of the ones that I especially liked:

"It's the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting."

"It's the simple things in life that are most extraordinary; only wise men are able to understand them."

". . . when each day is the same as the next, it's because people fail to recognize the good things that happen in their lives every day that the sun rises."

"Not everyone can see his dream come true in the same way."

"Every blessing ignored becomes a curse."

"Making a decision is only the beginning of things."

"People need not fear the unknown if they are capable of achieving what they need and want."

"When you can't go back, you have to worry only about the best way of moving forward."

"Everything on earth is alive...and it [the Earth] has a soul.We are part of that soul, so we rarely recognize that it is working for us."

"Every search begins with begginner's luck. And every search ends with the victor's being severely tested."

To be fair, reading this book was a good way to start off the year. being about following your dreams, facing hardship, making sacrifices, and following your heart, this story reminded me of a lot of the lessons we learn as children but often forget.

Until always,

Lemonjuicesodapop