The Best Books by Paulo Coelho
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Paulo Coelho is unquestionable of the most successful authors of recent times. Indeed, many bibliophiles have fallen in love with Coelho, like me. But what are the best books to read by Paulo Coelho?
Don’t worry! I have gathered the top 10 books I enjoy and recommend.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
The Best Books Written by Paulo Coelho
If you are looking for an awesome gift to your self or someone that you care, have a look at this box set.
It’s Paulo Coelho’s essential collection and includes six classic books: The Alchemist, The Pilgrimage, Warrior of the Light, The Valkyries, Veronika Decides to Die, and Eleven Minutes.
The Zahir
Paulo Coelho
The Zahir
Zahir is a story of a bestselling novelist and Esther, his wife, and a war correspondent.
What We Like Less
This book is not as good as the Alchemist. But for those who want some exciting insights on obsessive love or emptiness of celebrity-status, the Zahir is worth your attention. Still, I recommend The Zahir for everyone.
Why You Are Going to Like it
What I like about the Zahir is that you will imagine and think like the main character. Was Esther kidnapped or murdered? This is one of the questions that will linger in your mind.
Is the Zahir a true story? For me, it is relatable. The plot and story might be happening for every couple across the world.
As I read the book, I felt different emotions, and I appreciate Paulo Coelho for a job well done.
The Winner Stands Alone: A Novel
Paulo Coelho
The Winner Stands Alone: A Novel
The Winner Stands Alone is among Paulo Coelho’s best books. A novel published in 2008, the Winner Stands Alone is a story set at the Cannes Film Festival. It is based on the rise of the Superclass.
What We Like Less
Although it is well-researched, the plot is weak. Also, the writing style is quite over-indulgent.
Why You Are Going to Like it
The Winner Stands Alone is not on this list for nothing. Its background is well-researched.
There are tons of inspirational phrases, making the book perfect for those who are having a hard time.
The Winner Stands Alone is good to go!
The Pilgrimage
Paulo Coelho
The Pilgrimage
Written in 1987, The Pilgrimage is a recollection of Paulo Coelho’s experiences during his pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
What We Like Less
I don’t find anything bad in the Pilgrimage. It is a good learning experience for people of all ages.
Why You Are Going to Like it
The Pilgrimage is a complete novel one must-read. It serves as an adventure story and a guide to self-discovery.
The novel has many ups and downs that I enjoy. Every chapter opens a new and intriguing mystery. Plus, different scenes have a stunning effect.
There are many symbols of evil, inculcating fear to the readers.
Every end of a chapter incites curiosity. Aside from fear, readers will feel pity, delight, and other emotions.
The Pilgrimage tells about the religious trip the author experienced. The lessons he learned from the trips serve as an eye-opener for others.
It provides ways to think better, overcome jealousy, and make decisions with confidence.
The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist
We talked about it before. It is one of Paulo Coelho’s must read books and best books in the world. It takes you on a spiritual teachings journey and how you can accomplish something when you wanted it.
What We Like Less
The character development could have been better. I wished I could find out more information about Santiago and the other main characters.
Why You Are Going to Like it
Well, there are many things to expect. Compared to other books out there, the Alchemist is a combination of mysticism, wonder, wisdom, and magic. Every line appeals to our intellect, enabling us to think and imagine. For this reason, it has become a go-to option for people of all ages. Despite some room for improvement in character development, particularly with the protagonist Santiago and other main characters, the Alchemist remains a powerful literary work. Its narrative compels us to reflect on our strengths, listen to our hearts during times of uncertainty and adversity, and embrace our destinies. The Alchemist has sold millions of copies worldwide, translated into numerous languages, and has inspired countless readers to embark on their own spiritual journeys. Notable quotes or lessons: “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” This famous line from the Alchemist serves as a powerful reminder that when we truly desire something, the world around us can align to help us reach our goals. It is a fantastic book that can complete your collection.
The Witch of Portobello: A Novel
Paulo Coelho
The Witch of Portobello: A Novel
Another book is the Witch of Portobello, a fiction work published in 2006. It tells the story of a woman abandoned by her birth mother and then adopted by a Lebanese couple.
What We Like Less
Coelho focuses on a variety of narrative processes, which is unsatisfying sometimes. Due to many narrations, Coelho doesn’t give justice to every character.
Why You Are Going to Like it
The Witch of Portobello made me think about who I am and rekindle my passion and purpose. It also guides the readers to choose the right path to take, become more aware of their weaknesses, accept weakness, and become confident in themselves.
The Witch of Portobello is worth your attention.
Eleven Minutes: A Novel
Paulo Coelho
Eleven Minutes: A Novel
If you have read Hippie, Eleven Minutes is another of Coelho’s best books you shouldn’t miss. It tells the story of Maria, who believes that true love never exists. But everything changed when she met a handsome young painter in Geneva.
What We Like Less
While the whole story is interesting, the ending is sentimental and weak. But it is still recommended for readers who are avid fans of romantic novels.
Why You Are Going to Like it
Eleven Minutes is well-written. You will agree with me that Paulo Coelho is an experienced, creative, imaginative, and talented author.
I also love how Coelho presents all women’s sides in the novel, making the book relatable and engaging.
I appreciate how Coelho gives justice to the hopes and dreams of a young woman.
Coelho also discusses both the spiritual and emotional aspects of sexual intercourse in Eleven Minutes.
Overall it is thought-provoking and engaging.
Hippie
Paulo Coelho
Hippie
Hippie is a story of Paulo, a Brazilian man, who dreams of becoming a prolific writer. There is also Karla, a Dutch woman, who has been looking for someone to go with her on a hippie trail to Nepal.
What We Like Less
As a fan of the Alchemist, Hippie does not have the magic which surrounds Coelho’s words. I missed his writing style and story. Hippie is like a re-narration of what happened in the past.
Why You Are Going to Like it
In Hippie, Paulo Coelho interweaves the philosophy, true stories, and adventure of his own life, giving his readers the chance to know him better as an author and person as well.
Another thing I enjoy about Hippie is it captures my interest and attention. But it is not the right choice for those who don’t love autobiographical novels.
For those who love history, this book is a must-read.
Warrior of the Light: A Manual
Paulo Coelho
Warrior of the Light: A Manual
The Warrior of the Light: A Manual is an inspirational companion to The Alchemist. The book is an international bestseller that has excited millions of readers from all corners of the globe.
What We Like Less
For me, there’s nothing I don’t like about Warrior of the Light: A Manual. It is excellent, helping me reflect on what I can do despite the odds.
Why You Are Going to Like it
What I like about Warrior of the Light: A Manual is its every passage. It is short and encourages us to be eager to turn our dreams into reality.
During any uncertainty of life, many would be in despair. Warrior of the Light: A Manual can be your good companion to beat the odds and be positive every day.
I also take my hat off to Coelho for his inimitable style. The book helps readers bring out the Warrior of the Light in them.
Manuscript Found in Accra
Paulo Coelho
Manuscript Found in Accra
What makes the Manuscript Found in Accra different from Paulo Coelho’s books? Well, it is about the invasion of crusaders in Jerusalem in 1099. It also tells about an unknown Greek man who stood before the citizens, encouraging them to share their worries and fears. Then, he offered hope in return.
What We Like Less
Other lines are hard to digest and can be boring sometimes.
Why You Are Going to Like it
You will recognize Coelho’s unique style of writing in the Manuscript Found in Accra. He is poetic, and his creativity is superb.
The Manuscript Found in Accra has an enchanting life effect on readers. There’s always magic in all his books.
By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
Paulo Coelho
By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
This is a poetic story that reflects love and life. It is a story of two young lovers who reunite after over a decade.
What We Like Less
Compared to the Alchemist, it lacks the tone and beauty for me. Some scenes are a bit weird. Also, every page is full of a religious tone.
If you don’t like religious sermons, this book won’t be a great choice.
Why You Are Going to Like it
It is also considered one of the top 5 Paulo Coelho, and as such, it has magical moments.
From the subtle dialogues, beautiful landscape, a pinch of spirituality to fantastic imagination, the book has them all.
The protagonist is relatable, while the male protagonist is no exception. While it is hard to digest, it is a perfect option for those who love magical moments in a romantic novel.
Well, that’s it! I hope you like this collection of books. Which one will you read first?
What is Paulo Coelho Best Known for?
Paulo Coelho is a Brazilian author with armies of avid readers. His best-known book, The Alchemist, is about a young Andalusian shepherd on a personal quest.
What is the title of the Best Selling Book by Paulo Coelho?
The consensus is that it is The Alchemist.
Today, according to HuffPost, The Alchemist has sold 65 million copies and been on The New York Times bestseller list for more than 315 weeks. It’s also translated into 80+ languages and sets the Guinness World Record for the most translated book by any living author.
Why The Alchemist is the Best Book?
That was one of the first books I read. It explores destiny, dreams, and traveling but, most importantly, how you can do something with determination, discipline, and hard work. It is a self-help book in disguise, but as in me, it seems it touched many of its readers’ feelings.
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