Book Review: The Blue Djinn of Babylon

By Philip Kerr 

4 Stars 

The Blue Djinn of Babylon by Philip Kerr was, I felt, an exceptional sequel to The Akhenaten Adventure and set up the plot for the next book perfectly. In this novel, the twins, John and Philippa, are both lured into a trap set by the most powerful djinn ever. Phillipa's heart will be tested beyond measure, as will John's determination and love for his sister.  

The main reason for which I liked this book was the djinn element, so to speak. It's really interesting as the book is set in our world, and the magic of it is extremely plausible, if hard to believe. Djinn resemble humans and are alike in almost every way, with the exception of the most important: djinn can grant wishes. The whole book's mythology is an interesting twist on how many people already know genies. You can rub a lamp, have a genie appear and grant you three wishes, right? Wrong. In this book, as I've already said, djinn walk free, they can grant wishes at their own wish, and the term "genie" is quite rude, as is the notion of "magic" for what they really practice is "mind over matter". I find all this a rather interesting concept and like the way this book explores it.  

The only reason for which I didn't like the book was the simple ending, as it was a little predictable and, in my opinion, simple. This, however, didn't distract from the plot and, in a way, allowed room for the next book in the series; but simply didn't appeal to me and rather aroused boredom as nothing extraordinary happens.  

Overall, I think The Blue Djinn of Babylon is a great book, and I encourage Middle Eastern mythology enthusiasts to give it a whirl. 

Reviewed by Uliana as part of the Teen Reviewer program

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