Although there were some differences involving book choices between the two
different generations, the novel was enjoyed all-around. Coelho’s uncanny ability
to wonderfully tell a story was praised by both residents and students. Rosa
and Flora were enthralled with the life of the story’s protagonist, Santiago,
and fascinated by Santiago’s outlook on life. They admired Santiago approach
to life – he went about his day, with his dreams, and just dealt with each individual
obstacle that appeared in his life. Flora and Rosa enjoyed one of the major
themes of the novel, which was one’s own personal legend. Even though the novel
was appreciated by all in the book club, the residents found some of Coelho’s
language and diction to be a little difficult to understand and read. Sometimes
passages had to be read for a second or third time for the words to actually
sink in. However, they still were able to finish the novel, and enjoyed the
process while doing so.