The Bird King

Fatima is a slave girl born and raised in the harem of the Sultan of Grenada. Hassan, the palace mapmaker with a miraculous gift, is her only true friend. When a Catholic envoy comes to claim Grenada in the name of the Spanish monarchs and discovers Hassan's “blasphemous” talent, Fatima convinces him to escape with her. Aided by supernatural friends, Fatima and Hassan must make their way to safety while being hounded by the Catholics, and in particular a cunning and ruthless woman named Luz who is determined to fulfill her religious calling at all costs.

A story of friendship, love, strength, faith, and perseverance, above all The Bird King is a message of tolerance. Strip away differences such as language and wealth, and at the core we are all human, and faith is not about the trappings of organized religion but about belief and love. This beautifully written journey of self-discovery connects you to each character and through the wondering eyes of Fatima, who has never been outside the palace, makes you appreciate the world anew. Somewhat of a cross between The Alchemist and a fairy tale, The Bird King is perfect for fans of magical realism.