Common Reading "The Alchemist" by Paolo Coelho
This novel was chosen as the common reading for the Sophomore Program in the fall of 2004 and has been used ever since due to the parallels between the journey and life discoveries of Santiago, the main character of the novel, and those of a sophomore.
The novel tells the tale of Santiago, a boy who has a dream and the courage to follow it. After listening to "the signs", the boy ventures in his personal, Ulysses-like journey of exploration and self-discovery, symbolically searching for a hidden treasure located near the pyramids in Egypt.
In his journey, Santiago sees the greatness of the world and meets exciting people like kings and an alchemist. By the end of the novel, he discovers that "treasure lies where your heart belongs", and learns that the treasure was the journey itself, the discoveries he made, and the wisdom he acquired.
Coelho's novel has inspired a devoted following since it's publication and has been read by many college and high school students. It will help you discover what will be influencial in your life and how you will travel your chosen path.