Title: Jahanara: Princess of Princesses, India, 1627
Author: Kathryn Lasky
First published September 1, 2002
186 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780439223508 (ISBN10: 0439223504)
Rating: 3.87
Overview
Transport yourself to the mesmerizing world of 17th century India where the Mughal emperors reigned supreme. Meet Jahanara, the beloved daughter of the mighty Shah Jahan, who lives a life of luxury, surrounded by precious gems and devoted attendants.
But her story is not all glitter and gold. As her father battles for his right to rule, Jahanara finds herself caught in the throes of political intrigue, and her Muslim faith brings her to confront the confines of her world.
Through Jahanara’s diary, explore the exotic beauty and dramatic upheavals of a bygone era and discover the fascinating history of one of India’s most powerful dynasties.
About the Author
Meet Kathryn Lasky, a highly praised American author who has written a plethora of books, including the esteemed Dear America and Royal Diaries series, as well as Sugaring Time, which won the Newbery Honor in 1984, The Night Journey, and the beloved Guardians of Ga’Hoole series.
Kathryn was born on June 24, 1944, and spent her childhood in Indianapolis, Indiana. She is happily married to Christopher Knight and together they reside in Massachusetts.
The Guardians of Ga’Hoole series is composed of 16 books, with the prequel being the latest and fifteenth installment. Kathryn has also written companion books and spinoffs for the series.
Editoral Review
Jahanara: Princess of Princesses, India, 1627 by Kathryn Lasky is a historical novel that offers a unique look into the life of an often-overlooked figure in Indian history. Lasky is an accomplished author, well-known for her works for young readers including the Guardians of Ga’Hoole series.
In this novel, she brings to life the story of Jahanara, the eldest daughter of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal. The novel is set in seventeenth century India and is characterized by vivid descriptions of Indian culture, traditions, and royalty.
Lasky uses an engaging and emotive style of writing that transport readers to the world of the Mughal Empire. Furthermore, the book offers a unique perspective on Indian history, emphasizing the role of women, particularly Jahanara, as powerful and influential figures in society.
Jahanara: Princess of Princesses follows the life of Jahanara from her birth in 1614 until her death in 1681. We are introduced to Jahanara as a young girl of thirteen years old when her mother, Mumtaz Mahal, dies giving birth to her fourteenth child.
The novel follows her life as she grows into a remarkable woman known for her intelligence, wisdom, and compassion. We see Jahanara’s journey from the death of her mother, the marriage of her siblings, to the construction of the Taj Mahal, and ultimately her own death.
Lasky masterfully builds the story around Jahanara, who is portrayed as a complex character – an intellectual, healer, feminist, and political advisor. Through Jahanara’s eyes, we see the power struggles, political treachery, and the beauty of Mughal India.
The author presents a fascinating insight into Jahanara’s life and the complex political power games played through her relationship with her father and siblings. Jahanara falls in love with a man who does not meet the Emperor’s approval, which results in tragic consequences that affect not only Jahanara but the entire Empire.
Furthermore, Lasky does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the story’s setting, providing detailed and culturally accurate descriptions of the lives and customs of the Mughal people. The books also offer a window into the history of India, from the construction of the Taj Mahal to the decline of the Mughal Empire, showing the historical importance of the figures and events in the book.
Jahanara: Princess of Princesses is an excellent book, but it does have its limitations. At times, the story feels slow-moving, and the writing drags on too long without significant plot developments.
Furthermore, the ending leaves some questions unanswered, which might leave some readers unsatisfied. Overall, Jahanara: Princess of Princesses is a fantastic historical novel written in an engaging and emotive style.
The book offers valuable insights into Indian culture and history, displaying the crucial role that women played in shaping society. Lasky’s novel is a must-read for anyone interested in Indian history and culture.
I recommend this book to young adults and adults interested in historical novels, women’s studies, or Indian culture. On a scale of one to five stars, I give Jahanara: Princess of Princesses, India, 1627 a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
