My Favorite!

The Alchemist was my favorite book in this class. I believe it is a bildungsroman for sure. Santiago goes on a life-changing journey and definitely experiences growth. He learns what it means to fulfill one's Personal Legend, and he lets nothing hold him back. He is resourceful when he finds himself with no money in a country where he does not even speak the language. Instead of giving up hope, he chooses to be an adventurer in a strange land. This is a pivotal moment of growth in the story. He helps and learns from others along his way. He shows courage, wit and strength. He falls in love, and it is a love so true that it contributes to, rather than hinders, his journey. The Alchemist seems to be the ultimate bildungsroman because it is about a boy who reaches self-actualization despite many obstacles, which is the ultimate goal for all humans.