Rumi–Poet of Joy and Love
“Be a friend to everyone.”
Rumi’s words are needed now more than ever. A picture book biography of the renowned Persian poet that introduces children to Rumi’s life and teachings.
Even the greatest poet was once a child. And so it was with Rumi. When he was young he was enchanted by birds and books. He later became a scholar, but it was the loss of his best friend, Shams, that inspired Rumi to his most important realization: Love is in us and everywhere.
The Persian mystic and poet Rumi is one of the best known and most widely read poets in the world. The renowned illustrator Rashin Kheiriyeh herself comes from Iran. With this picture book she creates a touching memorial to Rumi’s wisdom and warmth. The strong colors and ornamental details transport us to the Persian Empire in the 13th century. Yet Rumi’s story and his poetry are timeless.
Written by award-winning Iranian-American artist Rashin Kheiriyeh, this narrative nonfiction picture book has been published to honor his life and the 750th anniversary of his death.
Kheiriyeh transforms a distant and revered figure into a warm, bright focal point in this biography of a young child who becomes a man whose words and ideas still inspire awe. The illustrations are vibrant and lush, with striking colors, blue cloth-like textures, and gold detail adorning individuals, while hoopoe birds of rainbow plumage dive among flowers of the most colorful hues. [. . .] Kheiriyeh demonstrates how this friendship, and its loss, spurs Rumi to write his incredible stories and poems, as well as focus on universal love within God. While religion is mentioned, the focus is Rumi’s writings and the message of accepting others. Back matter includes an author’s note, extended biographical information, and a reference source. VERDICT A first purchase for all libraries; there are too few beautiful portraits of beloved Persians.
⭐ School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW
A beautifully rendered biography that will spur readers to contemplate themes of love and connection.
⭐ Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
A gentle, visually engaging introduction to one of the world’s most enduring poetic voices.
The Horn Book
Iranian illustrator Kheiriyeh lavishes the pages of this picture-book profile with luminous images of flowers, delicately drawn wildlife, and gracefully posed human figures
Booklist
The delicate illustrations complement the mystical, dreamlike feeling of this biographical picture book.
Foreword Reviews
This picture book biography is absolutely stunning, a definite addition to my library's Juvenile Biography section. The illustrations are so lush, colorful, imaginative, and the perfect addition to the text.
Amanda D., Franklin Public Library
- A Kirkus Reviews Most Anticipated Book, 2024
