I almost gave it just four stars. I fell out of love with it somewhere in the middle for a while, for a flaw that I later found to be a virtue. I felt at some point that the narrative was too thinly spun, but came to find this a mark if discipline. Maalouf is taking what is known and barely advancing it to fiction - though with some very heavy creations like the wonderful character of Harun the Ferret.

A humanist traveler who is skeptical of all systems, indulgent of anyone with a love of culture or bravery or kindness, wholly critical of few - what's not to like. And I like the book. Just when the novelty (for me, the western-educated reader) wears off of the perspective on history from a different pole, the author starts supplying hints of what in this Nan's character makes him a unique observer beyond his geographic pedigree.

I definitely will read more Maalouf. Maybe GARDEN OF LIGHT next?