A gorgeous children's picture book about Rumi's life. Each page is vibrant and beautiful with a short sentence. This is perfect for preschool-1st grade children. Parents will also enjoy it! I would recommend this if you enjoy the Little People, Big Dreams series.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ARC. All thoughts are my own.

This biography about the renowned Persian poet Rumi explores his life, teachings, and emphasis on love, joy, and friendship. His enduring words, as relevant today as they were centuries ago, inspire readers to be kind and considerate.

Rumi: Poet of Joy and Love invites discussions on themes of kindness, compassion, the power of words, consideration, and historical context.

Discussion Topics:
Kindness and Compassion: How do Rumi's teachings encourage us to be kinder and more compassionate?
Power of Words: What impact do Rumi's words have on you? How do they make you feel?
Cultural Understanding: What did you learn about Persian culture and history from the book?
Historical Context: How is Rumi's message relevant in today's world despite being written centuries ago?
Influence: How do Rumi's teachings influence your thoughts and actions?
Interpreting Poetry: How do you interpret some of the poems included in the book?
Personal Connection: Which of Rumi's teachings resonate most with you and why?

This captivating picture book biography, crafted for children aged 4-8, introduces them to the extraordinary life of one of the greatest poets and mystics, Rumi. Drawing inspiration from the profound wellspring of love, Rumi conveyed the timeless message that love resides within us and permeates every corner of our world.

Born on September 30, 1207, in Iran, Rumi's affinity for nature, particularly birds, manifested from his early years. As he matured, his love for reading blossomed, eventually leading him and his family to Turkey. Following in the scholarly footsteps of his father and grandfather, Rumi achieved renown. Yet, despite his success, a sense of incompleteness lingered. The missing piece of his life revealed itself in the exploration of friendship through his poetic masterpiece, "The Masnavi," cherished by many, especially children. Rumi discovered the divine in love, extending his embrace to all.

In commemoration of the great scholar's 750th year in 2023, this book stands as a masterful celebration. Its pages are adorned with exquisite, vibrant illustrations, showcasing the rich colors and ornamental details reminiscent of the Persian Empire. Beyond its visual allure, the book imparts a profound message of love and friendship.

Written with a lucid voice and deep admiration for the poetic luminary, the narrative highlights Rumi's journey of self-discovery and how he, through his writing, inspired others to tread the path of fulfillment.

I was expecting Rumi poetry when I picked up this arc, but did enjoy it nonetheless. Beautiful illustrations. Not sure my kids will find it engaging enough for a second read, however.

This book is delightful. The illustrations are unique, in a way that seem to capture something of the essence of traditional Persian paintings but also have been made appropriate for children. They are colorful and artfully done. The story is easy to follow and it is wonderful that there are even some farsi words in the illustrations.

I received an electronic ARC from NorthSouth Books Inc. through NetGalley.
Richly illustrated biography of the poet Rumi. Kheiriyeh shares the story of this poet's childhood, growth to adulthood, and finding his gift/calling writing poetry. Told in language children will understand. The artwork can be studied over and over to find all the details. At times, it seems the characters leap off the page as they are participating in the Sama. Don't miss the informational text included at the end. The author enhances explanations on several elements included in Rumi's life in short paragraph format.

"Be a friend to everyone.”

"Rumi–Poet of Joy and Love" chronicles the life of Jalāl al-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī (1207-1273), a “Persian poet, an Islamic teacher, and a Sulfi mystic.”

I’m not well-versed in poets and poetry but would be inclined to read Rumi’s works because his life’s story is very interesting. He sounds like he was a wise and incredible person one would feel fortunate enough to know, befriend, and learn from. His love of people, birds, nature, books, and writing was heartwarming. I was also very impressed by the colorful illustrations. It was so cool and beautifully designed. I also loved all the floral art.

"Rumi–Poet of Joy" and Love was very enjoyable to read. Rashin Kheiriyeh memorializes her favorite poet’s life and legacy in such a fantastic and engaging way. Young readers will certainly enjoy learning about Rumi, too.

Thanks again NorthSouth Books and NetGalley for e-ARC to read in exchange for an honest review!

I must admit that I know Rumi's poems but was never curious about his life. I also thought this book would be about his works and not about him. So it's truly fun to have learned something about a great poet that lived many years ago. The art and the color is also vibrant and pretty so it's perfect for children.

Rumi may have lived long ago in the thirteenth-century Persian Empire, but his life's work is still relevant today. Kids and adults will be engrossed by such bold and lively illustrations featured in this book, while learning about the life and time of Rumi, one of the world's most quoted and remembered poets. This is a timeless tale and wonderful celebration that may best be enjoyed during April (National Poetry Month) or for a similar lesson.

Beautiful! The illustrations are stunning. This is a great story for all ages! I didn’t know who Rumi was and now I want to go read his poetry. This is wonderful education and incredible art.

I love reading children’s books about real people who I need to learn about just as badly as my students! Before this, I didn’t know about Rumi, his life, or his poetry. The overall theme of friendship and kindness is one that anyone could use to hear more about whether child or adult!

A beautifully illustrated children's book that gives a brief biography of one of Persia's most well-known poets. This book celebrates culture, history, and the arts.

A lovely and educational reference book for young readers.

Ebook received for free through NetGalley

A gorgeously illustrated book going over the great poet. Hadn’t read his works before but it’s a great way to get people interested with a children’s book.

No doubt that I'm going to love this book. It had me once there was "Rumi" mentioned!! I just started reading some things about him, so not much yet but I'm excited to have a deeper knowledge about him. This book gives you a little bit about Rumi in a very simple way, I really enjoyed it and I definitely need to have the physical book!!!

WOW! This book is gorgeous. This beautiful picture book is the true story of Rumi, a real Pesian poet who lived several hundred years ago. The story follows Rumi throughout his life, and how after he loses his friend he writes great works. I would enjoy having this book at home just to look at the pictures if I wanted to cheer up. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this.

This children illustrations book is wonderful simple autobiography of famous Islamic Poet, Rumi.
The story is simple and chronological to capture each important stage of Rumi. Each pages are full decorated with vivid gorgeous Persian style illustrations. All of it is rich and captives my eyes. Each pages also featuring simple meaningful philosophical moment or quotes. The book is gorgeous and perfect for collectible gift.

Thank you to Netgalley and Northsouth Books Publisher for providing a copy of this ebook. I have voluntarily read and reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Rumi–Poet of Joy and Love
by Rashin Kheiriyeh
Pub Date 05 Mar 2024
NorthSouth Books Inc.,NorthSouth Books
Children's Fiction| Children's Nonfiction| Multicultural Interest

North South Books and Netgalley have provided me with a copy of Rummi-Poet of Joy and Love for review:


“Be a friend to everyone.” Rumi's words are more relevant than ever. It is a picture book biography of the renowned Persian poet Rumi that introduces children to his life and teachings.



It is important to remember that even the greatest poets were once children. It was the same with Rumi. As a child, he was captivated by birds and books. Later in life, he became a scholar, but it was the loss of his best friend, Shams, that led him to his most significant realization: There is love within each of us and around the world.

Rumi, a Persian mystic and poet, is one of the most widely read poets in the world. Originally from Iran, Rashin Kheiriyeh is a renowned illustrator. This picture book is a touching tribute to Rumi's wisdom and warmth. Strong colors and ornamental details transport us to the Persian Empire in the 13th century.
Yet Rumi's story and his poetry are timeless.



This narrative nonfiction picture book, written by Iranian-American artist Rashin Kheiriyeh, honors his life and the 750th anniversary of his death.


I give Rumi-Poet of Joy and Love five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

The art reminds me of the stories my papa would tell me. It is bright, fun, and an excellent use for a biography. I am not familiar with many Persian tales, so this was a lot of fun.

4 stars

The artwork is absolutely beautiful, and I loved getting a closer look into the mystic Rumi's life. I also enjoyed the author's note at the end of the book. This is a perfect introduction to Rumi for a young child.

This book was a breath of fresh air. I had always wanted to learn more about Rumi and his poetry and this was the perfect book for it. I love poetry and love to see it made accessible to children through picture books such as this one. The drawings are incredibly vibrant and interpret the story so well, this will definitely capture a child’s attention. The story of Rumi teaches kids to cherish friendships and to always follow one’s heart. This is definitely a book I will be adding to my collection when it comes out.