RUMI—POET OF JOY AND LOVE

An enthralling introduction to the 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic.

Young Rumi grew up with a fondness for birds, nature, and books, as well as curiosity about the world around him. He loved the epic poem “The Conference of the Birds,” in which a group of birds seek the mythical Simurgh to be their king, and he often reflected upon the story’s mystical implications. As he grew older, he became a sought-after scholar and teacher. Rumi befriended another spiritual teacher, Shams, and began to consider friendship, love, and God. In celebration, he would dance the Sama, raising his hands to the sky and spinning in joyous circles. Rumi’s students, however, became jealous of Shams and forced him to leave. Bereft, Rumi turned to writing. His collection of reflections became his masterpiece, The Masnavi. This absorbing narrative traces Rumi’s childhood inspirations and life-changing events. Though the parts about mysticism are a bit clunky at times, the focus is on Rumi’s childhood and his stories written for children, which will spark readers’ curiosity about his works and their deeper meaning. The gorgeous illustrations, rendered in bright vivid colors with stylized nature-inspired details, feature traditional Persian clothing, motifs, and calligraphy.

A beautifully rendered biography that will spur readers to contemplate themes of love and connection.