Lightness of Being…

I am really not good at book reviews in the formal sense. I will just give you my impressions of this book; the author of which, through his unfailing kind words and encouragement, has become a dear brother of mine.

“Master of the Jinn” really took my breath away. It was “Lord of the Rings” (much shorter version) meets the “Alchemist” and as fast tracked as the “Da Vinci code” (The first two books are my all time favorites; so that’s saying plenty!).

The premise is an assortment of unlikely characters whose fates meet and are intertwined; they are then set on a joint path to search for King Solomon’s Ring; which leads them across sea, deserts, and time itself to end up at no other than Jinnistan the land of Jinns. During the quest each of the characters undergo inner transformation as they are hit with visions, dreams and confronted with their own vulnerabilities.

We are also introduced to the multi-named and multi dimensioned Faqir (who is their guide); whose every revelation leaves us breathless in awe and anticipation.

There is also the all knowing wise Master of a Sufi Order who assembles the characters and encourages them to seek their destiny. Not knowing much about Sufism; in it’s practiced sense; I found myself very curious about the Khaniqa.

Is the ney that beautiful a sound?

I found myself wanting to know more of Ishaq’s (the scribe, and narrator’s)journey (what questions did he ask the Master prior to joining? How did he make the leap from complete unbelief to joining the Tariqa?). Although I figured what was necessary for the story was already furnished.

I had similar questions for each of the characters; and found myself wanting to know them more; to unveil their pasts and personalities. By the end of the book, I was sorry to let them go.

The language is deep, poetic, and layered, textured with so many meanings (as poetic language always is). Here are some lines that stuck with me:

“The urge to love is heaven’s carress”

or

“Facts are known by their coldness; truth by its warmth”

And so many more. There were parts where I had to pause, take a deep sigh, and re-read; just for the pleasure of savoring such beautifully written words.

I feel like this review is lacking in so many ways; because I can’t seem to do the book justice. Please do check out the book at: http://www.masterofthejinn.com and do write a better review while you are at it

I highly recommend this book; so prep your lemonade; set up your hammock and enjoy a long languid summer afternoon in an unforgettable and gorgeous journey with a true master of words:).