Aleph Novel By Paulo Coelho. Aleph is a 2011 novel by the Brazilian writer Paulo Coelho. An autobiographical account of Coelho, it is his fourteenth major book, and touches on the theme of spirituality. Aleph was written in Coelhos native language, Portuguese. The new novel by the author of The Alchemist. Aleph marks a return to Paulo Coelhos beginnings. In a frank and surprising personal story, one of the worlds most beloved authors embarks on a remarkable and transformative journey of self-discovery. Facing a grave crisis of faith, and seeking a path of spiritual renewal and growth, Paulo decides to start over: to travel, to experiment, to reconnect with people and the world. On this journey through Europe, Africa, and Asia, he will again meet Hilal the woman he loved 500 years before an encounter that will initiate a mystical voyage through time and space, through past and present, in search of himself.