The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams is a story about storytelling. And who better to write such a book but master storyteller Daniel Nayeri, author of the award-winning Everything Sad is Untrue?
I enjoyed the audiobook version, read by the author, but the print book contains full-color illustrations. Hard to choose, I know. Samir, I’m certain, would convince you to buy both. You can’t put a price on a good story.
The Story
A young orphan finds himself both rescued and purchased by the wily merchant Samir, who calls himself the Seller of Dreams. Samir calls the boy Monkey and they travel along the Silk Road with a caravan of merchants, ever in search of the Merchant’s Crown or the most unbelievable trade. But Samir’s exaggerations have caught up with him as the pair learn there are six different assassins after him, sent by dissatisfied customers. In one improbable situation after another, Monkey saves Samir’s life, slowly earning his freedom.
While Monkey believes he wants freedom, he learns along the way there is something even more valuable. This is a tale of stories within stories. It’s about the stories we tell ourselves and other and how they shape our view of the world.
What I loved
- Engaging writing–Nayeri’s writing is so vivid you can almost believe you are on the Silk Road, despite the ludicrous situations Monkey finds himself in.
- Humor–Speaking of ludicrous situations, kids will love the humor of this book. You never know what’s going to happen or what clever solution Monkey will find to save Samir.
Parents should know
- Blood–This is a book about attempted assassinations after all. But there is one shocking, seemingly gory scene that puts this in the 12+ category for me. You may disagree with this for your individual child, but I’d suggest a quick pre-read for younger kids. Even though the book is aimed at middle grade readers (ages 8-12), with a twelve-year-old protagonist, my high schoolers and I couldn’t put it down.
- Religion–Various religions weave in and out of the story as the caravan travels. Monkey is originally raised by Monks, and though we never learn what religion, he seems conversant in many stories from the Bible. Samir tries to pass himself off as whatever religion his clients are, but clearly has no real faith of his own.
If you love stories full of imagination, humor, heart, and history, you won’t find a better read than The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams. I’d highly recommend this book for anyone ages 12+ and with parental discretion for younger readers.
I’ve also reviewed Nayeri’s semi-autobiographical novel, Everything Sad is Untrue. Click HERE to read it.
I’m so glad you reviewed both of Daniel Nayeri’s books. Don’t tell anyone but I read Everything Sad is Untrue and I didn’t notice that sex issue! Am I naive or what? Maybe I read too fast!
I loved the story and I still do but I think I won’t use it for my teen, mostly boys, book club selection.
Samir, the Seller of Dreams is at the top of my TBR pile. Maybe we will use it.
Thank you for the heads up!
I started following you after you spoke to our Friday Path of the Storyteller Circle not to long ago.
Hi Tricia! That was such a fun talk to give! I was so honored that Maryrose invited me! 🙂 I’m so glad you found my reviews helpful!