Paulo Coelho is not only one of the most widely read, but also one of the most influential authors writing today. He is recognized for his powerful storytelling technique and the profound spiritual insights he blends seamlessly into his parables.

      Paulo Coelho was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Coelho wanted to become a writer. At his parents' wishes, Coelho enrolled in law school and left his dream to become a writer. In 1970, after deciding that law school was not for him, he traveled through much of South America, North Africa, Mexico, and Europe. Returning to Brazil after two years, he began a successful career as a popular songwriter.

      In 1980, he experienced a life defining moment: he walked the 500-plus mile Road of Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. On this ancient highway, he achieved a self-awareness and a spiritual awakening that he later described in The Pilgrimage. In 1988, he published The Alchemist, and it launched him as an international bestselling author. The Alchemist has sold more than 11 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 41 languages. Other works by Coelho are By The River Piedra I Sat Down & Wept, The Valkyries, The Fifth Mountain, and Veronika Decides to Die.

      A winner of numerous literary prizes, Paulo Coelho is also a prominent speaker for humanitarian causes. In 1999, he received a Crystal Award for Artistic Achievement at the Davos Economic Forum Conference. In 1996, Coelho founded the Paulo Coelho Institute, which provides aid to children and elderly people with financial problems. In September 2007, Coelho was named a Messenger of Peace to the United Nations. Several of Coelho's books have been adapted into other media.

      Coelho and his wife of 26 years Christina Oiticica split time living in Europe and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The Way of the Bow
by Paulo Coelho

Stories for Parents, Children and Grandchildren
by Paulo Coelho