
a book
City of Djinns
William Dalrymple · 2003 · 350 pages
Peeling back the layers of Delhi’s centuries-old history, City of Djinns is an irresistible blend of research and adventure.
Sparkling with irrepressible wit, City of Djinns peels back the layers of Delhi's centuries-old history, revealing an extraordinary array of characters along the way-from eunuchs to descendants of great Moguls. With refreshingly open-minded curiosity, William Dalrymple explores the seven "dead" cities of Delhi as well as the eighth city—today's Delhi. Underlying his quest is the legend of the djinns, fire-formed spirits that are said to assure the city's Phoenix-like regeneration no matter how many times it is destroyed. Entertaining, fascinating, and informative, City of Djinns is an irresistible blend of research and adventure.
Sparkling with irrepressible wit, City of Djinns peels back the layers of Delhi's centuries-old history, revealing an extraordinary array of characters along the way-from eunuchs to descendants of great Moguls. With refreshingly open-minded curiosity, William Dalrymple explores the seven "dead" cities of Delhi as well as the eighth city—today's Delhi. Underlying his quest is the legend of the djinns, fire-formed spirits that are said to assure the city's Phoenix-like regeneration no matter how many times it is destroyed. Entertaining, fascinating, and informative, City of Djinns is an irresistible blend of research and adventure.
recommended by 3 people
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Twinkle Khanna
“A beautifully written book @DalrympleWill trying to read it slowly because I don't want it to end :)”↗

Mohnish Pabrai
“City of Djinns by @DalrympleWill is one of my all time favorite books . He is a gifted writer and observer.”↗

Mira Nair
“One of my fave books ever”↗