Paulo Coelho's books banned in Iran
Iranian news sources report that works of Paulo Coelho, famed Brazilian lyricist and novelist, have been banned by Iranian government. The Ministry of Culture in Brazil has condemned the Iranian censorship.
Coelho is popular among young Iranian professionals. He is known for his unconventional thought provoking and inspiring style and his old history of rebellion as a hippie and a leftist reformer. His book, "Alchemist" was first refused for reprint by its publisher, but went on to sell more than 65 million copies in the world, becoming one of the best-selling books in history, and has been translated into more than 70 languages.
Brazil has close ties with Iran. Former Brazilian President made several efforts to mediate between Iran and the West on the dispute over Iran's nuclear power.
