Veronika Decides to Die (Paulo Coelho)

"A highly original, moving, and ultimately life-affirming book." -- Sunday Mirror (London)

A thrilling tale of resilience and radical self-realization from the international bestselling author of The Alchemist.

This captivating and life-affirming tale follows twenty-four-year-old Veronika, who on the surface has it all: youth, beauty, and a loving family. Yet, she feels something crucial is missing. Taking a drastic step, she consumes a handful of sleeping pills, expecting to slip away from life. Instead, she awakens in a mental hospital, with the revelation that she has mere days to live.

Drawing on Paulo Coelho's own life experiences, this profound and thought-provoking novel delves deeply into the essence of madness, exploring its many layers and celebrating those who dare to challenge societal norms. By questioning what the world deems "normal," this story provokes readers to reflect on their own perspectives and embrace the unconventional--wherever it may bring you.

Offering readers a luminous glimpse into the beauty, hope, and potential of each new day, Veronika's story is one of transformation and resilience--and an awakening to life's infinite possibilities and a reassurance that it is never too late to find the courage to live authentically and fully.

One of the most influential writers of our time, Paulo Coelho is the author of thirty international bestsellers, including The Alchemist, Warrior of the Light, Brida, Veronika Decides to Die, and Eleven Minutes. He is a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters and a United Nations Messenger of Peace. Paulo is the recipient of 115 international prizes and awards, among them, the Chevalier de l'Ordre National de la Légion d'Honneur (Legion of Honor). Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1947, he soon discovered his vocation for writing. He worked as a director, theater actor, songwriter, and journalist. In 1986, a special meeting led him to make the pilgrimage to Saint James Compostela (in Spain). The Road to Santiago was not only a common pilgrimage but a turning point in his existence. A year later, he wrote The Pilgrimage, an autobiographical novel that is considered the beginning of his literary career. He lives in Geneva, Switzerland.