Safia, sold by her poor, high-caste father to be a Rajah’s eighth wife, knows that she faces death when her brutal husband discovers she is not a virgin. She keeps her spirit together by telling stories of an Indian youth—a thief and con man—chosen to save Krishna’s daughter from the demon who abducted her. Echoes of Scheherazade, blended with elements of Hindu religious belief and touches of Indian culture, color and shape this picaresque novel. The cast of characters includes the bride-in-waiting, the harem eunuch, the 16-year-old hero of her tale, a sacred white tiger and cameo appearances by the flute-playing Krishna—rendered through narration, dialogue, commentary and, occasionally, foreshadowing. The setting, India in the time of the British Raj, is lyrically evoked, revealing a love for the vastness and diversity of the land and its people. Bell’s lush translation is fluid and poetic, providing seamless access to the voices of the characters, with all their vitality, quirkiness and humor. A superior fairy tale, indeed—down to the bittersweet but ultimately satisfying conclusion. (Fantasy. 13 & up)
