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Book Review

Publisher's Note:

From the #1 best-selling author of The Alchemist comes an inspiring story about a young man seeking wisdom from an elder, and the practical lessons imparted along the way. In The Archer we meet Tetsuya, a man once famous for his prodigious gift with a bow and arrow but who has since retired from public life, and the boy who comes searching for him. The boy has many questions, and in answering them Tetsuya illustrates the way of the bow and the tenets of a meaningful life. Paulo Coelho's story suggests that living without a connection between action and soul cannot fulfill, that a life constricted by fear of rejection or failure is not a life worth living. Instead one must take risks, build courage, and embrace the unexpected journey fate has to offer. With the wisdom, generosity, simplicity, and grace that have made him an international best seller, Paulo Coelho provides the framework for a rewarding life: hard work, passion, purpose, thoughtfulness, the willingness to fail, and the urge to make a difference.…

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The Archer

by Paulo Coelho

Overall Book Review:

The Archer by Paulo Coelho is a brief tale told by a master archer. It lays out a philosphy called “the way of the bow” and applies the principles of archery to everyday life. Though this is not a long book, it is filled with ideas and insights that are deeply meaningful and deserves a meditative reading rather than a cursory glance or foray by a speed reader. The language is beautifully crafted to convey it truths while maintaining a sense of grace and dignity throughout. This book is a good choice for anyone who longs for a view of life and its challenges that is simple, yet complete in its simplicity.

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Characters use bows for target shooting.

Sex/Nudity: “Women and drink” is mentioned as part of a frivolous lifestyle.

Mature Subject Matter:

Torture (mentioned in author biography).

Alcohol/Drug Use:

Drink is mentioned part of a frivolous lifestyle; drugs are mentioned in the author biography.

Overall Book Rating
Profanity/Language
Rating:
0
10
Violence/Gore
Rating:
0
10
Sex/Nudity
Rating:
1
10

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About the Reviewer

My taste in literature leans heavily towards sci-fi, fantasy, and (my favorite) horror, and the latter can present some fairly murky waters for parents to let their children explore. I enjoy novels of both the standard and graphic varieties. Since those genres, and graphic novels in particular, tend to appeal to boys, I hope that I can help other Boy Mommies in their quest to find books that their little video gamers--I mean, future bibliophiles will read and enjoy. When I am not reading, I enjoy tabletop role-playing games, video games, and singing karaoke. I have a wonderful husband who lets me indulge my reading habit by sharing the housework and being a great dad to our genius kids and their faithful hound.