‘The Alchemist’ is a short parable-like tale telling of a shepherd boy called Santiago who goes on a journey from Spain to Egypt in search of his personal legend to discover treasure. The work has been banned by the Iranian government, likely because Coelho’s editor tried to help a woman shot during Iranian elections, an action publicly supported by Coelho. 

The book reminded me much of Hesse’s ‘Siddhartha’, as an individual goes on a spiritual journey, learning important life lessons and making self-discoveries, though despite making the comparison I feel Hesse resonated with me a little more. It was a wholesome book however of personal growth and moral lesson that can teach you a lot about your outlook to life and your potential, pursuing ones own personal legend.