Turkish writer Elif Shafak has divided this beautiful novel into five parts: Earth, Water, Wind, Fire, and the Void. Two parallel narratives take center stage; one is set in the thirteenth century Turkey that unfolds how the renowned scholar Rumi transforms into a Sufi poet in the company of Shams of Tabriz who is a dervish and a spiritual teacher. The second narrative is set in America in the twenty-first century and revolves around Ella who is a housewife and a mother of three who learns that her husband of twenty years is cheating on her. Life greets her with Sufi author Aziz and unexpected awakenings that push her to follow her heart. Somehow this encounter also aids in transforming her to a completely different level. Spirituality, friendship, humanity and love color the plot throughout. Sufism is the highlight of this interesting read. The bond that Shams and Rumi share takes the cake.

The significance of number 40 is prevalent in many cultures across the world, be it forty days after the birth of a child or forty days of mourning after a death. Hitting 40 is an auspicious time that opens up new avenues for any human being and is not in any way a roadblock. A new light is held by number 40. The forty rules of life and love are portrayed through chapters that have characters who crossed Shams and Rumi in this ancient tale. They are far from preachy but assist in completing the tale. Faith plays a mystical role in this intelligent and gorgeous book. The book is an experience in itself.