The Pilgrimage

After reading one of Coelho's more recent novels, Brida, last year - I decided I would like to read one of his earlier works. I wanted to understand more about his spiritual journey and beliefs. The Pilgrimage is the story of Coelho's journey along the legendary road of San Tiago across the mountains in Spain in search for meaning. The purpose of the journey was to search out his sword, which for him was the ultimate in his search for purpose. He was so close to getting his sword prior to the trip, when his Master removed it from him and made him take the road to San Tiago to find it, again.

Maverick posted his review in 2005, and I liked this summary:

Paulo's spiritual quest was linked to the idea that there were secrets, mysterious ways, and people who are capable of understanding and controlling things, which would be unavailable to mortals. His journey gave him great insights and experience, to which Paulo was transformed as he learns to understand the nature of truth through the simplicity of life.

For me, The Pilgrimage was like a reminder of the essence of God and People. We seek to control everything we are involved in, everything we want, yet there is a divine plan for which we don't know about, therefore can not control effectively how we want. However, if we learn to live humbly, respectfully and learn to listen - we can hear, see and touch aspects of life that others fail to grasp. I believe there is another dimension, perhaps a supernatural experience, that is not beyond our reach - if we put our faith in that unknown, and listen.

I find Coelho's writing style quite comfortable, and I think I'd be happy to pick up other books he's written. I like to open my eyes to spiritual teachings, and to be prepared to listen to what I can learn from them. Any recommendations on other spiritually challenging novels?