In a village in 17th Century Persia a comet crosses the sky a sign to a 14-year-old girl that misfortune may cross her path. And so it is when her father dies and leaves her and her mother destitute. The only choice they now have is to go to the great city of Isfahan and pray that a distant uncle will take them in to his home.
With colorful descriptions the city of Isfahan comes alive. Just like the main character is bombarded by the sights and smells of the rich city, the reader is transported to another time and place. But for all it's beauty Isfahan won't be the idyllic place daughter and mother hoped for.
Now living with the uncle, a master rug maker, and his spoiled wife, the two women are no longer in charge of their household. They have to adhere to the rules of the well-off family and are little more than servants but what other recourse do they have and with no dowry for the daughter they are at the mercy of the family.
Still for the young woman new possibilities arise. She knows she has the talent to become a rug maker if only her uncle will train her, and she's even made a friend with a wealthy neighbor. But, just as mother and daughter are slowly getting used to their new situation, the daughter is made an offer of a signeh, a sort of temporary marriage, and although it is not what most families would prefer they have to think of the benefits this offer could provide, mainly money.
The girl tries to make the right decisions even at the cost of her dignity and wishes but in the end she is too headstrong and after one brave act she and her mother are once again on the streets.
Just like the rugs the author so richly describes this is a beautifully woven tale of a young girl fighting for her dreams. Along with the story the author also includes a smattering of folk tales which serve to add a dreamy quality to this novel. A great debut.
Added 09/07