Books That Inspire 2003
 
The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho


I experienced my first dose of adult-sized problems the summer of 2001 and I felt immobilized by grief and anger. I went to Las Vegas to visit my friend, but I could not leave my sadness behind. My friend handed me a book, The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho, and went shopping. By the time she returned, I had experienced a spiritual renewal. Although the story was simple, the words eloquently expressed a universal desire for adventure, growth, and love. I realized that my pain would pass but that life must have both pain and joy in order to be complete.
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Marka Ackley
Director, Housing Learning Center
Housing and Food Services