Alchemist: Read, Discuss and Draw

A global phenomenon, The Alchemist has been read and loved by over 62 million readers, topping bestseller lists in 74 countries worldwide. This book is a beautiful parable about learning to listen to your heart, read the omens strewn along life's path and, above all, follow your dreams. Santiago, a young shepherd living in the hills of Andalucia, feels that there is more to life than his humble home and his flock. One day he finds the courage to follow his dreams into distant lands. The people he meets along the way, the things he sees and the wisdom he learns are life-changing.

In this 5 day summer camp learners will read the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, discuss the story (using comprehension questions on flash cards) and draw Santiago’s journey on a map (I will send you a printable blank map on the classroom page). Learners are requested to obtain a copy of the book so that they can read a few pages aloud in each class (this is optional and nobody will be forced to read if they don’t feel like it). 

We will look at the geography of the countries (flag, capital city, languages spoken, climate and description of geographical terrain and environment) that he passes through such as Andalusia, Tangier and Egypt through my shared slideshow presentation and for the last 7-10 minutes of class learners will get to draw while watching a short travel documentary by Rick Steves.

Day 1: We will read pages 1-35, learn about Andalusia and Gibraltar and plot/draw the start of Santiago’s journey on a map.

Day 2: We will read pages 35 - 70, learn about Tangier and plot/draw Santiago’s journey on a map.

Day 3: We will read pages 70-105, learn about the Sahara Desert of Morocco and plot/draw Santiago’s journey on a map.

Day 4: We will read pages 105 - 140, learn about Egypt and plot/draw Santiago’s journey on a map.

Day 5: We will read pages 140 - 175, learn about Egypt and plot/draw Santiago’s journey on a map.