Ali and Nino
Ali and Nino
Book Brief
282
Novel • Fiction
Baku, Azerbaijan • Early 20th century
1937
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Ali and Nino by Kurban Said is a novel set in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 1914 to 1920, detailing the romance between Ali Khan Shirvanshir, a young Muslim nobleman, and Nino Kipiani, a Christian noblewoman from Georgia. Their love faces cultural and political challenges during World War I and the Russian Revolution. Sensitive topics include violence and cultural discrimination, but the story primarily explores themes of cross-cultural love and heritage.
Romantic
Bittersweet
Melancholic
Adventurous
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
9,351 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ali and Nino by Kurban Said is celebrated for its rich depiction of cultural intersections and a poignant love story set in Azerbaijan. The narrative offers deep insights into historical and political contexts. Critics praise its lyrical prose but note a sometimes idealized portrayal of the protagonists. Some find the pace uneven, yet the book remains a compelling read showcasing a unique East-West fusion.
Who Should Read Ali and Nino?
Readers who enjoy Ali and Nino by Kurban Said are drawn to cross-cultural love stories, historical settings, and the clash of civilizations. Fans of Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak and A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini will appreciate its rich narrative and exploration of cultural identity and romance.
9,351 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ali and Nino, published in 1937, is one of the earliest modern novels written about the Caucasus, capturing the cultural and historical intricacies of the region.
The true identity of the author, Kurban Said, has been a subject of much debate, with some attributing the work to Lev Nussimbaum, a Jewish writer who took on Islam and a Muslim identity, writing under the pen name Kurban Said.
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The book is set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and World War I, providing a rich historical context that enhances the tale of love and cultural conflict.
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282
Novel • Fiction
Baku, Azerbaijan • Early 20th century
1937
Adult
18+ years
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