BOOK REVIEW OF THE '40 RULES OF LOVE' BY ELIF SHAFAK

Elif Shafak's 40 Rules of Love is a novel that blends a contemporary story with historical fiction, spirituality, and philosophy. The book follows two parallel narratives, one set in modern-day Boston and the other in 13th century Konya, Turkey. The novel explores the themes of love, spirituality, faith, and mysticism in a thought-provoking and insightful way.

The modern-day storyline follows Ella Rubinstein, a middle-aged woman who is feeling unfulfilled in her life and marriage. She takes a job as a reader for a literary agency and is assigned to read and review a novel called Sweet Blasphemy by the mysterious Aziz Zahara. The novel tells the story of the famous poet and Sufi mystic Rumi and his relationship with his spiritual mentor, the dervish Shams of Tabriz. As Ella delves deeper into the novel, she begins to question her own life and beliefs, and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

The historical storyline is set in 13th century Konya, Turkey, and tells the story of Rumi and Shams of Tabriz. Shams is a wandering dervish who is searching for a spiritual companion who can understand him and share his beliefs. He meets Rumi, a respected Islamic scholar and teacher, and the two form a deep and transformative relationship. Shams teaches Rumi about the true nature of love and spirituality, and together they explore the depths of their own souls.

Shafak's writing is beautifully descriptive and captures the essence of both modern-day Boston and 13th century Konya. The characters are complex and multidimensional, and the way in which the two narratives intertwine is masterfully done. Shafak uses Rumi's poetry and the teachings of Sufism to explore themes of love, spirituality, and the search for meaning in life. She delves into the nature of love and how it can be transformative and healing, both in personal relationships and in a larger spiritual context.

One of the strengths of the novel is the way in which Shafak explores the relationship between Rumi and Shams. Their relationship is not a traditional romantic one, but rather a deep and spiritual connection that transcends physical boundaries. Shams teaches Rumi about the true nature of love and how it can be found in all aspects of life, not just in romantic relationships. Through their relationship, Shafak explores the idea that love is a force that can transform individuals and society as a whole.

Another strength of the novel is the way in which Shafak weaves in the teachings of Sufism and Rumi's poetry. The book is filled with quotes and passages from Rumi's poetry, and Shafak uses these to explore the themes of love, spirituality, and the search for meaning. The teachings of Sufism are also woven throughout the book, and Shafak does an excellent job of explaining these in a way that is accessible to readers who may not be familiar with the tradition.

One weakness of the novel is that at times it can be a bit heavy-handed in its message. The themes of love and spirituality are repeated throughout the book, and at times it can feel a bit preachy. However, this is a minor quibble and does not detract from the overall power and beauty of the novel.

In conclusion, Elif Shafak's 40 Rules of Love is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the themes of love, spirituality, and the search for meaning in life. Shafak's writing is beautiful and captures the essence of both modern-day Boston and 13th century Konya. The characters are complex and multidimensional, and the way in which the two narratives intertwine