Rumi–Poet of Joy and Love

Ages 4 to 8, Grades K to 3

“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.

Includes backmatter on Rumi as well as an author's note.

About the Author

Rashin Kheiriyeh was born in Iran and now lives in Washington, D.C. She is one of the most outstanding Iranian illustrators working today. She has been awarded the Golden Apple of Bratislava and was selected for the 2013 Bologna Book Fair Illustrators Exhibit and a 2014 IBBY Honor. Among her many books are Two Parrots and There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly—her first books published in the United States.

Rumi—Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi, also known as Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi or simply as Rumi—(September 30, 1207–December 17, 1273) was a thirteenth-century Persian poet, theologian, and Sufi mystic. His poetry is revered around the world. He is currently considered to be one of the most popular poets in America. His words of wisdom and spirituality are just as pertinent now as they were in his time.