This book was highly recommended by a couple of friends and I had high expectations, especially with the teasers on the covers of the book. I was open to being inspired and I was just really not into it. Elixirs and legends are not my cup of tea. I think the overall idea was nice, but, I couldn't relate to it. I found myself skipping whole sections and skimming towards the end. At times I was able to understand and empathize with Santiago, however, I lost his mission towards the end. I almost got a sci-fi, Harry Potter & Narnia vibe from this book. Note I don't like any of those!