The Merman and the Book of Power: A Qissa by Musharraf Ali Farooqi [Hardcover]

The Merman and the Book of Power reimagines the classical qissa storytelling tradition, seamlessly blending history and fantasy. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1258, the narrative opens with the Mongol siege of Baghdad, a harrowing event that plunges the city into chaos. The relentless onslaught of the Mongols is so fierce that the citizens liken them to the apocalyptic creatures, Gog and Magog, believed to be unleashed from their prison by the legendary King Alexander.

As Baghdad falls to the invaders, a year later, the gates of the city open to reveal a bizarre creature—Gujastak, a merman captured by Mediterranean fishermen. His arrival ignites rumors and fears among the citizens; is he a miraculous being or a portent of doom heralding the end of times?

Intertwined with Gujastak’s tale is that of a mysterious talismanic book, imbued with dark powers that corrupt its possessor. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a world filled with magical creatures, ill-fated love stories, and the ominous potential for the world's end.

Master storyteller Musharraf Ali Farooqi brings the qissa to life with rich prose, weaving together elements of folklore, myth, and historical narrative to create a vibrant tapestry of suspense and wonder. The novel captures the essence of traditional storytelling while exploring profound themes of power, destiny, and the interplay between humanity and the supernatural.