Manuscript Found in Accra by Paulo Coelho

Manuscript Found in Accra by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho ranks in my top ten favorite reads of all time.  I have read it multiple times aloud to my classes and have recommended it to countless people.  It is a timeless story that I revisit again and again (which is saying something because I usually don't like to reread).  So when TLC book tours announced the tour for Manuscript in Accra, I knew I had to read it.

The Manuscript in Accra begins on July 14, 1099.  In the holy city of Jerusalem, people of the three main faiths gather to hear a man speak.  The three monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam share the holy city.  The Crusaders lie just outside the city gates and the people face an unknown future in a time of war.

The Copt or Greek speaker, gathers in the Holy city to share his wisdom with the masses.  After the copt's initial speech, he offers to answer questions from the crowd.  He answers questions based on anxiety, love, loyalty, sex, death, war, beauty and much more.  Each chapter is full of quotable wisdom and inspiration.

"No matter how you are feeling get up every morning and prepare to let your light shine forth.
Those with eyes to see will see your light and be enchanted by it." Pg. 106

This book is meant to be read slowly and savored.  Read a chapter a day, use a highlighter, and reflect on your life and on how the passages will enhance it.  The Manuscript in Accra has something in it for everyone.  It is really not a story at all but a guide or a book of wisdom you can use to apply to your life.  It is in question and answer format and is religious in nature.

"Do one thing:  Live the life you always wanted to live.  Avoid criticizing others and concentrate on fulfilling your dreams.  This may not seem very important to you, but God, who sees all, knows the example you give is helping Him to improve the world.  And each day, He will bestow more blessings upon it." pg. 42

I will definitely have to reread this.  It is enlightening and it is perfect for the times your heart cries out for a book that will bring you peace, or a new idea,  or a different way of thinking about something.