Book Number 166
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Paulo Coelho’s book was chosen by Elaine as “a story teller’s story that would create polarised responses from Book Club members”.
The discussion showed that some loved it and some hated it.
The pedigree of the story is well respected and a parallel story, “The Pedlar of Swaffam” has been told a couple of times in the Hull Story tellers Club meetings.
The essence of the story is that the journeyman finds the sought-after treasure back at the point from which the journey began.
And so it was with the little shepherd boy who journeys from Spain to Egypt to see the pyramids but only to find his treasure in his home churchyard.
The story contains much (some thought too much) material relating to omens and destiny.
There is no humour.
Reactions within the club were split roughly evenly between those who enjoyed the story for various reasons versus those who were irritated and unable to suspend their disbelief.
Various “incidents” were highlighted as memorable including the robbery, the crystal glass shop, and the oasis.
The alchemist in the story caused us some discussion two members feeling let down either by the lack of science or by the lack of accuracy with regard to the nature of alchemists.
An easy read.
3.5 stars.
PC. 16th August, 2020.
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