THE ALCHEMIST

Pure joy and enchantment are the best ways to describe Paul Coelho's mystical novel of a Spanish shepherd boy seeking his destiny. In that same spirit narrator Yareli Arizmendi spins this marvelous tale of exotic adventure. The tale ranges from the countryside of Spain to the glittering oasis of the Egyptian desert. Arizmendi makes us feel the pain and joy of Santiago, the poor shepherd boy, as he tries to decide whether to seek a larger fortune or stay in the security of his job. Exuding softness and pathos, the narrator reminds that us most people who are unhappy failed to follow their dreams when young. I.Z. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 96]