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　　The novel begins with Santiago, a shepherd boy,shavingsa vision about finding treasure among the pyramids of Egypt. Inspired by this dream, he decides to sell his sheep and sets out on a journey that will take him far from home.

　　Some of Santiago's encounters are intrinsically negative, but each contributes to the realization of his dream in one way or another. At one point, all of Santiago's money is stolen, and he is forced to take a job as a Muslim shopkeeper's assistant. After a year, however, Santiago has earned enough money to return to his dream, and has also played a part in helping the shopkeeper fulfill his: The shopkeeper puts aside his fears and follows his heart to Mecca.

　　Santiago finds his treasure in the end, but the most valuable thing he gains is the knowledge of how to live out his dream and help others to realize theirs. Though it is not stated explicitly in the book, Santiago is himself an alchemist-someone like Coelho, who has the power to take something common and render it remarkable.

　　More Information 仅供参考，不须强记

　　1. shepherd n.牧羊人

　　2. pyramid n.金字塔

　　3. intrinsically adv.本质地；内在固有地