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45 pages 1 hour read

Leo Africanus

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986

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Book Brief

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Amin Maalouf

Leo Africanus

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986
Book Details
Pages

360

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mediterranean • 16th century

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Leo Africanus by Amin Maalouf centers on Hasan, a Granada-born Muslim who emigrates with his family to Fez following the Spanish conquest. He later becomes a diplomat traveling to Timbuktu and Cairo, falling in love and facing personal losses. Captured by Spanish privateers, Hasan is taken to Rome, where he becomes John-Leo under Pope Leo X's patronage, navigating a complex life of identity and survival across various cultures.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.3

15,534 ratings

83%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Leo Africanus by Amin Maalouf is praised for its rich historical detail and vibrant storytelling, which adeptly brings the Renaissance period and its cultural intersections to life. Reviewers appreciate its complex protagonist and evocative narrative. However, some find the pacing uneven, which may hinder engagement. Overall, it is lauded as a well-researched and immersive read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Leo Africanus?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction rich in cultural exploration and detailed settings will find Leo Africanus by Amin Maalouf captivating. Fans of works like The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco and I, Claudius by Robert Graves, which blend history and narrative, will appreciate Maalouf's intricate storytelling.

4.3

15,534 ratings

83%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Hasan Bin Muhammad Al-Wazzan/John-Leo de Medici

The main protagonist and narrator, a well-traveled man originating from Granada who explores multiple cities. Throughout his life journey, he grapples with complexities of identity and religion while documenting his experiences.

Hasan's father, an affluent weigh-master in Granada. His emotional experiences and relationships heavily influence Hasan's family background.

Muhammad's true love and the mother of his daughter, Mariam. Captured and brought to Granada, her story intertwines with major family dynamics.

Hasan's mother and Muhammad's wife, a superstitious woman whose arranged marriage shapes family relations and causes tension with Warda.

Hasan’s uncle and Salma’s brother, a diplomat who navigates political landscapes. He plays a pivotal role in the family’s emigration to Fez.

Hasan’s half-sister and Warda's daughter. Her life is marked by familial decisions and individual struggles, linking her to events in Fez.

Hasan’s closest childhood friend, known for his knack for obtaining information and a strong sense of justice. His actions significantly impact the storyline.

A religious leader with a strict interpretation of Islam. He influences public opinion and moral perspectives amidst political upheaval.

A formidable tax collector with ties to power, his controversial actions are pivotal to several conflicts within the story.

Hasan's cousin and first wife, involved in an arranged marriage that reflects prevalent societal norms.

A slave from Timbuktu, her relationship with Hasan is one of deep affection and personal sacrifice.

A Circassian woman of ambition and complex motives, who forms a strategic relationship with Hasan during his time in Cairo.

Originally from a Jewish family in Granada, her life shifts dramatically after a series of tragic events lead her to Italy and eventual marriage to Hasan.

A significant historical figure who impacts Hasan's life through personal and political influence, particularly during his papacy.

Book Details
Pages

360

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mediterranean • 16th century

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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