Read this book!

It is not SF or fantasy, but one of the most personal and inspiring books you will ever read.

It is also short and you can read it in a few hours. Then you will think about it for the rest of your life. Probably ;)

Truly a great book.

I've read a few of his books - they're all pretty good. If you liked the Alchemist you should also try Daniel Quinn's books Ishmael and My Ishmael. For whatever reason those seem to be recommended along with Coehlo by the same folks. I actually prefer Quinn.

I read this about 2 years ago for an English assignment. I thought it rather dull back then, not because I didn't understand it, but because it didn't interest me. Thinking on it now, it really does seem rather inspirational, and I've taken from it without really realising it.