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The Pilgrimage by Paulo Coelho

Summary

The Pilgrimage recounts the spectacular trials of Pauli Coelho and his mysterious mentor, Petrie, as they journey across Spain in search of a miraculous sword. The Pilgrimage paved the way Paulo Coelho’s international best selling novel, The Alchemist. In many ways, these two volumes are companions -to truly comprehend one, you must read the other.

Step inside this captivating account of Paulo Coelho’s pilgrimage along the road to Santiago. This fascinating parable explores the need to find ones own path. In the end, we discover that the extraordinary is always found in the ordinary and simple ways of everyday people. Part adventure story, part guide to self discovery, this compelling tale delivers the perfect combination of enchantment and insight –goodreads

Translated by Alan R.Clarke

My Thoughts

When I first came across this book, I was drawn to it for two reasons. Firstly, I am a fan of Coelho, having read The Alchemist a number of times. I list it as one of my favourite books of all time. Secondly, I did my own pilgrimage of The Camino de Santiago in 2014, so was extremely interested to read what Coelho had to say about his experiences.

I knew The Pilgrimage would focus on the mystical experiences of the author. This really interested me, as my own experiences of the walk were fitness related rather than mystical or religious.

I have read this book twice, and each time, I pick up something new from it. I have found that to be the case in each of his books that I’ve read.

For me, The Pilgrimage didn’t disappoint but I am aware that I have a bias towards the subject matter. It is possible that a reader without that bias, or without having experienced The Camino, wouldn’t get the same enjoyment out of this book.

Recommendations

“Coelho’s writing is beautifully poetic, but his message is what counts…….he gives me hope and puts a smile on my face” – Daily Express

“His books have had a life enhancing impact on millions of people” – The Times

Quotes

“We must never stop dreaming. Dreams provide nourishment for the soul, just as a meal does for the body.”

“We always have a tendency to see those things that do not exist and to be blind to the great lessons that are right there before our eyes.”

We always know which is the best road to follow, but we follow only the road that we have become accustomed to”

My Star Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

About the Author

Paulo Coelho was born in 1947 in Rio de Janeiro. Before dedicating his life completely to literature, he worked as theatre director and actor, lyricist and journalist. In 1986, Coelho did the pilgrimage to Saint James of Compostella, an experience later to be documented in his book The Pilgrimage. 

His books are written in Portugese and translated into English.

This 25th anniversary edition published October 2012 by Thomson’s Publishers. Hardcover, 320 pages.

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