The Forty Rules of Love: A Novel of Rumi by Elif Shafak, author of The Island of Missing Trees is a beautiful novel that unfolds in two parallel stories, one modern and one set in the thirteen century. Part historical fiction based on the life of Rumi and his beloved mentor and friend Shams of Tabriz.

I spent the last month in Turkey and read this novel while I was there. I was much more drawn to the story line about Rumi than the modern narrative. I found it beautiful to read about Rumi while being near Konya, where he was from, and watching the dervishes whirl in this ancient place. The relationship between Shams and Rumi inspired his movement from scholar to mystic, dancer, musician and poet, the Rumi that is beloved by so many today. This was at a heavy cost at the time, as some felt the influence Shams had on Rumi was detrimental and ultimately led to Shams’ death.

I love Shafak’s writing and I loved this book, maybe because the subject matter was so close to my heart. I question whether or not the modern tale was necessary to tell this story, but I’ll let you decide that for yourself. A worthwhile read.