My impression of the Alchemist, Part 2

This image connects to the Alchemist because Santiago travels through a desert. The desert, in some ways, actually represents a time in life when we might not be able to actually see our dream realized, but we know it is ahead of us somewhere. Since deserts are vast and dry with sparse vegetation, the fact that Santiago crosses one to find his treasure means that we might have to cross a "desert-like" space in order to realize our dreams. I think "deserts" might look differently to different people. For instance, a desert to me might be a time of loneliness where I don't feel that I have many supportive people around me. But a desert time to another might be where they don't have the finances necessary to support them or a tight budget.

Dear Neil Gaiman,

I am excited to start reading your book, Stardust. I have been waiting to read it for awhile, and now I have decided (with the help of a high school senior who inspired me by reminding me that I always have time to read) to start it. I was going to wait until summer, because often it just seems too much to actually find time to read during the school year. But that is an excuse. If it is a priority, then I need to make time to do it. I am excited about your book because, first of all, the movie was cool (though a little cheesy). I was intrigued by the purely fantastical story and the humor that you managed to weave throughout. So, I think your book is just what the doctor ordered. I need some light humor and darker fantasy in my life. Also, your book was given to me as a gift by someone else who is a terrific reader and who I often find shares the same opinion as me on books. So, that is a high recommendation indeed if she actually bought the book for me. I am excited to read...so excited that I will try to start it tonight...I will let you know what I think of it when I am further through it. In the meantime, Coraline, based on your graphic novel, is out in the theaters. I think my boyfriend and I are going to see it this weekend...I can't wait! Blessings, M. Crabtree