Rumi—Poet of Joy and Love
By Rashin Kheiriyeh
The Story
A picture book biography of the Persian poet Rumi, following him from a boy enchanted by birds and books to a scholar whose grief over losing his best friend Shams led him to his greatest teaching: that love is in us and everywhere.
Why It's Special
For families who want their child's first introduction to poetry to come with real wisdom attached, this is a gentle way into who Rumi actually was before he became a name on a quote card.
- Big idea: Great wisdom often grows out of great loss — and love, once you notice it, turns out to be everywhere.
- Vibes: Warm, reflective, richly patterned, quietly profound.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are curious about real people from history
- respond well to stories about big feelings like friendship and loss
- enjoy richly patterned, colorful artwork
- are drawn to gentle introductions to poetry and wisdom
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & character: What kinds of things did young Rumi love before he grew up to be a poet?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Rumi felt when he lost his best friend, Shams?
- Big idea: What do you think Rumi meant when he said love is in us and everywhere?
- Real-life connection: Who is a friend that means as much to you as Shams meant to Rumi?
- Imagination: If you wrote a poem about something you love, what would it say?
