Memoirs of an Arabian Princess from Zanzibar

This is the classic account of life inside the family of an Arab ruler on the island of Zanzibar in the mid-19th century. If the topic interests you, there is nothing else equal to it.

This book is written by Emily Ruete (formerly, Syiida Salma) who was the daughter of the most influential rulers of Oman and Zanzibar of all times. It was originally written in German and then translated into English and Arabic. This book is excellent for the kind of readers who are fascinated by history and, Arab and Islam culture. Although the title suggests the author's autobiography, the book goes further to give a clear image on the political aspects and social life of the island of Zanzibar. I am glad that she had some financial hardships that forced her to write such a book to sell it. It has delivered so much information about Zanzibar that we wouldn't know.

This book contains the memoirs of Emily (Sayyida) Ruete, a Nineteenth Century Arabian princess. It is a fascinating tale of childhood and living conditions within the harem in Nineteenth Century Zanzibar. The book is unique in that Sayyida was one of the very few princesses who learned to write, hence other princesses were not able to record their experiences. It is refreshing to read an insider's report of harem life rather than the strange misinterpretations of short-term foreign visitors. The book also contains firsthand accounts of political intrigue, which will be of interest to students of Zanzibari or Omani history.

I haven't read this book yet, although I have been planning to for the last five years. But I have read "Trade Wind," a semi-fictional but remarkably historic novel by M.M. Kaye, in which Emily Ruete is one of the main characters. I recommend everyone read it, because it gives a lot of background information on Zanzibar, and an intriguing account of the rebellion there at the time the princess (Emily) eloped with her German lover.

I use to leave in Ruete's palace in Zanzibar and reading her story was amazing for me. If you ever plan to visit the island of Zanzibar you can't miss this book.