Desert Queen, Jyoti Rajan Gopal
Desert Queen, Jyoti Rajan Gopal
List: $7.99 | Sale: $5.60
Club: $3.99

Desert Queen

Author: Jyoti Rajan Gopal

Narrator: Neil Shah

Unabridged: 9 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: Recorded Books

Published: 10/24/2023


Synopsis

As a young boy, Harish hears and feels the music of the Thar Desert, all around him:

“When the khamaicha thrums
and the dholak drums
and the boy’s feet tap
and his fingers sway …
it is softly … softly, so no one sees.”

Harish knows the line between what men and women should want, and he keeps it in sight.

But when Harish’s family suffers loss, he finds himself in charge of two sisters, in charge of making money. And so he begins to dance publicly, in the bright colors and kohl rimmed eyes of the god Krishna … and in the rhythm-making anklets and the swirling costumes of the female Rajasthani dancers he so admired.

A new persona is born.

The path of Queen Harish to stardom is not without trial, but it is one of bravery and fearlessness. A story of triumph and inspiration. Something to sing about out loudly, proudly, so everyone can hear.

Reviews

Goodreads review by Haze on April 13, 2024

It was one of the most captivating and stunning graphic novel biography that beautifully chronicles the extraordinary life of Queen Harish. I was so enamored with the artwork that I wished the book wouldn't end. The illustrations by Svabhu Kohli are breathtaking, using kohl-black lines and vibrant col......more

Goodreads review by Suhasa on April 16, 2024

Artistically brilliant, socially powerful and hard-hitting.......more

Goodreads review by Jilanne on May 31, 2023

A stunningly-illustrated, lyrical story inspired by a young man who longed to inhabit the folkdance world of the women of his Rajasthani culture. Initially derided for his cross-dressing and dancing, he came to earn the respect and admiration of many. A wonderful story of perseverance and triumph in......more

Goodreads review by Jessica on January 16, 2024

One of the most beautiful picture books I've ever read, this lyrical story took my breath away. The gorgeous art and stunning writing bring rhythm, emotionality, tenderness, and a warmth that jumps off the page and dances, like the inspiring Queen Harish herself.......more

Goodreads review by Ricki on October 20, 2023

This book is captivating. After I finished reading, I read it again. Whew.......more