Facing Elimination, LeBron James Turns to ‘The Alchemist’ for Guidance

James see parallels between his life and that of the book’s protagonist Santiago.

lebron james
LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during game three of the NBA Playoffs. (Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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With his team facing elimination and his time in Cleveland potentially coming to an end following a 96-83 loss to the Celtics, LeBron James was ready to turn the page, literally, of The Alchemist.

After doing away with social media and other distractions for the playoffs, James has been reading a paperback copy of the 1988 novel by Paulo Coehlo during his spare moments.

Gifted to the four-time MVP by his longtime athletic trainer Mike Mancias, The Alchemist tells the story of its protagonist Santiago journeying to the Egyptian pyramids after having a recurring dream he will discover his life’s treasure there.

When he was asked about it after the game, James said he saw parallels between his life and that of Santiago, but also believes the book has lessons about destiny that apply to anyone.

“It’s a book that I think should mean something to almost anyone,” James told Cleveland.com. “If you have a goal, or a dream, or something you want in your life that would make it fulfilling, you should have to work for it. You should have to struggle. The journey is hard. Life is hard at times and you have to go through some things to get where you want to be.

If the Cavaliers lose on Friday, James will have plenty of time to make a summer reading list.

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