Rumi – Poet of Joy and Love
Rumi Poet of Joy and Love by Rashin Kheiriyeh is a captivating picture book that introduces readers to the 13th-century Persian mystic and poet, Rumi.

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The story takes readers on a journey through Rumi’s life, from his birth in 1207 to his encounters with other scholars and his transformation into one of the world’s most beloved poets.
Kheiriyeh’s illustrations are fun and engaging, combining rich colors and artistic details to create a magical world that complements Rumi’s story.
The book also includes backmatter on Rumi, offering further information about his life.
40 pages | ages 4 to 8
Award-winning Iranian-American artist Rashin Kheiriyeh wrote this book in honor of Rumi’s 750th birthday in 2023. She wanted to share his story and encourage reading more of his work.
Purchase Rumi Poet of Joy and Love, and discover more great titles from publisher, NorthSouth Books.
The book is also available from Amazon.
After-Reading Activities
- Rumi was a curious child. What are you curious about?
- Using the book for support, create an illustrated timeline of Rumi’s life.
- A hoopoe, the symbol of wisdom, appears in each two-page spread of the book. Research hoopoes to learn more about this unique bird.
- Explore Iran’s geography and culture through our country profile.
More Rumi Books

Rumi, also known as Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī, was a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and mystic. Born in 1207 in what is now Tajikistan, Rumi is best known for his profound and timeless poetry that explores themes of love, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of all things. His work, written in Persian, has transcended cultural and linguistic boundaries, making him one of the most widely read and celebrated poets in the world. Rumi’s influence extends far beyond literature, as his words continue to inspire people of various cultures and backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and shared humanity.
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