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Tiger Slayer: The Extraordinary Story of Nur Jahan, Empress of India
The dramatic and immersive story of an ambitious young empress who was the only woman to ever rule the Mughal Empire.
At the turn of the seventeenth century, a Muslim woman ruled an empire—Nur Jahan, whose name means “Light of the World.” The most cherished wife of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, Nur wielded power and freedom like no Mughal woman before her, leading troops into battle atop an elephant, issuing coinage in her own name, hunting tigers, designing public buildings, enacting measures to support poor women and the disadvantaged, and astutely handling matters of the state.
In this entirely new middle grade remix of her lauded adult biography Empress, acclaimed historian Ruby Lal uncovers the rich life and world of Nur Jahan. Deeply researched and resonant—and gorgeously illustrated by Emmy Award–nominated artist Molly Crabapple—Tiger Slayer is an illuminating and empowering portrait of a woman who redefined what it meant to be female in the Mughal Empire.
At the turn of the seventeenth century, a Muslim woman ruled an empire—Nur Jahan, whose name means “Light of the World.” The most cherished wife of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, Nur wielded power and freedom like no Mughal woman before her, leading troops into battle atop an elephant, issuing coinage in her own name, hunting tigers, designing public buildings, enacting measures to support poor women and the disadvantaged, and astutely handling matters of the state.
In this entirely new middle grade remix of her lauded adult biography Empress, acclaimed historian Ruby Lal uncovers the rich life and world of Nur Jahan. Deeply researched and resonant—and gorgeously illustrated by Emmy Award–nominated artist Molly Crabapple—Tiger Slayer is an illuminating and empowering portrait of a woman who redefined what it meant to be female in the Mughal Empire.
192 pages, Hardcover
Published August 5, 2025
3 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Lal
9 books59 followersRuby Lal is professor of South Asian history at Emory University. She is the author of Empress: The Astonishing Reign of Nur Jahan, Domesticity and Power in the Early Mughal World, and Coming of Age in Nineteenth Century India: The Girl-Child and the Art of Playfulness.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 4, 2025
Tiger Slayer reveals the true story of 16th century empress who ruled the Mughal Empire of India.
In 1577, baby Mihr is born as her family travels from Persia to Mughal India, leaving their homeland after the demise of the Persian king. By beginning of 1579, the family reaches Fatehpur-Sikri, the Mughal capital – the Red City, where they settle.
In the first quarter of the book, there are a lot of explanations of customs that we hardly learn anything about Mihr, and suddenly she is dressed in a wedding shirt. Throughout the story there are a lot of historical background and explanations. Thus, the story has the explanatory sound. It feels like you have to search for those moments of what happens next to the heroine.
From her husband she gains the knowledge about government and military. After his death, she arrives in harem, where with time she becomes the favored wife of the emperor. She starts to develop her natural skills, among them hunting.
She distinguished herself spending lavishly on poor and needy, designing public buildings, making key political decisions, leading troops into battle atop an elephant, and hunting tigers.
Mihr later called Nur Jahan was an incredible woman and it’s always fascinating to read about such characters who inspire and empower others.
The target audience for this book is middle grade. There are words which might be hard to understand and there is so much explaining of history and customs that I wonder how far children would get in reading this book on their own. The author is historian. Thus, I understand the passion in bringing all this history and customs but we have to keep it simple for the target audience in order for them to persist in reading, to get that part which inspires and awes.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In 1577, baby Mihr is born as her family travels from Persia to Mughal India, leaving their homeland after the demise of the Persian king. By beginning of 1579, the family reaches Fatehpur-Sikri, the Mughal capital – the Red City, where they settle.
In the first quarter of the book, there are a lot of explanations of customs that we hardly learn anything about Mihr, and suddenly she is dressed in a wedding shirt. Throughout the story there are a lot of historical background and explanations. Thus, the story has the explanatory sound. It feels like you have to search for those moments of what happens next to the heroine.
From her husband she gains the knowledge about government and military. After his death, she arrives in harem, where with time she becomes the favored wife of the emperor. She starts to develop her natural skills, among them hunting.
She distinguished herself spending lavishly on poor and needy, designing public buildings, making key political decisions, leading troops into battle atop an elephant, and hunting tigers.
Mihr later called Nur Jahan was an incredible woman and it’s always fascinating to read about such characters who inspire and empower others.
The target audience for this book is middle grade. There are words which might be hard to understand and there is so much explaining of history and customs that I wonder how far children would get in reading this book on their own. The author is historian. Thus, I understand the passion in bringing all this history and customs but we have to keep it simple for the target audience in order for them to persist in reading, to get that part which inspires and awes.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2025
Thank you so much to Netgalley and W. W. Norton for the advance copy. As always, everything I share below is 100% my own.
'Tiger Slayer' by Ruby Lal is a nonfiction biography of the only woman to ever rule the Mughal Empire, Empress Nur Jahan. Defying societal and political expectations, after marrying her second husband, Mughal emperor Jahangir, she rose up in the ranks eventually taking the reins and practically running the empire behind the scenes. So much so that, as is always the case, she was resented by many in the emperor's court, including his son, the crowned prince Shah Jahan.
The book takes the readers through her story from birth as her Persian noble family relocated to India, with Nur being born on the journey, through her first marriage and eventually her second marriage. Her rise to the top is a fascinating story especially when one considers all the obstacles that she would face, not only as a woman, but the emperor's twentieth legal wife.
Unfortunately, while I learned a lot from the book and enjoyed it, I found the narrative style was too dry and clunky. Sentences at times felt a bit chopped or abrupt. And while I am usually a big fan of background information and tangents, as I find they help me see the bigger picture and understand the figures in question, in this case, I found myself often confused and a bit lost.
I can't help but wonder if the target audience, as this book is listed for middle-grade readers, might find the book overwhelming. While the book does introduce some of the less familiar terms and words, there were many that I felt weren't covered. I also wonder if perhaps some of the more nuanced cultural and religious details might be missed or lead to misunderstandings. For example, while Nur was a Muslim and we see her beliefs and influences throughout the text, there was at least one time when we know she (or her husband) prayed to Allah (the name of God among Muslims and Arab Christians), followed by conversation about the gods (who I assumed to be the Hindu Gods but I consider myself ignorant about the Mughal empire so please anyone feel free to correct me) but we didn't learn much more about this. I feel that to a young reader with no prior knowledge, they might find themselves potentially confusing the two religions. The interplay and coexistence of the beliefs is fascinating and worth the exploration and I wish this was explained more.
That being said, the illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. Every time I came across one, I had to pause and take in all the details. I mean, you can even see it in the cover! They really brought a lot of the key scenes to life and were absolutely vivid and beautiful.
I appreciate the passion going into the book, and I personally learned a lot from it as an adult, but I do think that younger readers would benefit best from it by co-reading this with an adult that can help them understand the bigger picture and introduce them to the intricate details and rich culture.
'Tiger Slayer' by Ruby Lal is a nonfiction biography of the only woman to ever rule the Mughal Empire, Empress Nur Jahan. Defying societal and political expectations, after marrying her second husband, Mughal emperor Jahangir, she rose up in the ranks eventually taking the reins and practically running the empire behind the scenes. So much so that, as is always the case, she was resented by many in the emperor's court, including his son, the crowned prince Shah Jahan.
The book takes the readers through her story from birth as her Persian noble family relocated to India, with Nur being born on the journey, through her first marriage and eventually her second marriage. Her rise to the top is a fascinating story especially when one considers all the obstacles that she would face, not only as a woman, but the emperor's twentieth legal wife.
Unfortunately, while I learned a lot from the book and enjoyed it, I found the narrative style was too dry and clunky. Sentences at times felt a bit chopped or abrupt. And while I am usually a big fan of background information and tangents, as I find they help me see the bigger picture and understand the figures in question, in this case, I found myself often confused and a bit lost.
I can't help but wonder if the target audience, as this book is listed for middle-grade readers, might find the book overwhelming. While the book does introduce some of the less familiar terms and words, there were many that I felt weren't covered. I also wonder if perhaps some of the more nuanced cultural and religious details might be missed or lead to misunderstandings. For example, while Nur was a Muslim and we see her beliefs and influences throughout the text, there was at least one time when we know she (or her husband) prayed to Allah (the name of God among Muslims and Arab Christians), followed by conversation about the gods (who I assumed to be the Hindu Gods but I consider myself ignorant about the Mughal empire so please anyone feel free to correct me) but we didn't learn much more about this. I feel that to a young reader with no prior knowledge, they might find themselves potentially confusing the two religions. The interplay and coexistence of the beliefs is fascinating and worth the exploration and I wish this was explained more.
That being said, the illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. Every time I came across one, I had to pause and take in all the details. I mean, you can even see it in the cover! They really brought a lot of the key scenes to life and were absolutely vivid and beautiful.
I appreciate the passion going into the book, and I personally learned a lot from it as an adult, but I do think that younger readers would benefit best from it by co-reading this with an adult that can help them understand the bigger picture and introduce them to the intricate details and rich culture.
November 11, 2025
review -
Tiger Slayer is a beautifully written and richly informative biography of Nur Jahan, the only woman to hold the title of Empress of India during the Mughal era. Set in the 17th century, this book captures not only the grandeur of her reign but also the struggle of a woman whose legacy was nearly erased from history.
What stood out immediately was the introduction by the storymaker and the artist. Their collaboration in bringing Mughal history to life through vivid art and storytelling felt both refreshing and immersive. I’ve read middle-grade nonfiction that covered the rise and fall of the Mughal Empire with chronological sequence of Mughal Emperors of the era, but this is the first time I’ve read a book fully dedicated to one remarkable queen who dared to rule beside an emperor and reshape history itself.
The story begins with Ghiyas’s family traveling from Persia to India, where Mihr, who would later become Nur Jahan, is born. From her humble beginnings to her upbringing in Emperor Akbar’s court, the book traces her family’s steady rise in the Mughal hierarchy. We see Mihr as a daughter, a wife, and a mother before she becomes the Empress. Her journey from obscurity to power, her influence within the harem, and her eventual co-rule alongside Emperor Jahangir are all vividly portrayed.
The writing is accessible yet insightful, perfect for readers curious about powerful women who shaped empires but were nearly forgotten. While it’s aimed at younger readers, it never talks down to them and offers enough depth to keep adults hooked too. Author perfectly blends storytelling, history, and art in a way that makes her world feel tangible and alive.
The format is another highlight of Tiger Slayer. There isn’t just text and illustrations but it also includes a map, side notes explaining Mughal court terminology, snippets of cultural context, and fascinating facts about rituals, people, and places. These thoughtful additions make the biography come alive and create a complete picture of the time period.
I was amazed by Nur’s intelligence and talent. She was a skilled shooter, a poet, an architect, and a sharp politician. What fascinated me most was learning that Nur Jahan was the first woman in Mughal history to give darshan (public appearance) from the palace balcony, a privilege that had always been reserved for emperors. She even issued royal decrees under her own seal and circulated silver coins that carried both her name and Jahangir’s. For a woman in the 17th century, that level of recognition was extraordinary.
Nur Jahan may have been Jahangir’s twentieth wife, but she was first in intellect, strength, and influence. While Jahangir was not as capable as his father Akbar, I admired him for the respect and power he granted Nur Jahan. He loved her deeply, trusted her judgment, and allowed her to share his authority, which was almost unheard of at the time.
Her eventual downfall was sad but not exactly surprising. Her open support for Prince Khurram, who later became Shah Jahan, was controversial, and her later decision to marry her daughter Ladli to another prince, and favoring that prince made her appear politically inconsistent. It showed a flaw in her character, where ambition conflicted with maternal instinct. Yet, it was also easy to understand her choices as those of a mother trying to protect her child in a dangerous political landscape.
I couldn’t help but wonder what might have happened if she had continued supporting Khurram. Her influence might have lasted longer, and she might have even played a part in creating the Taj Mahal, which carries traces of her own architectural vision.
Despite her mistakes, it was disheartening to see how Shah Jahan tried to erase her from history. I agree with author here — no matter how hard he tried, Nur Jahan’s brilliance could not be forgotten. Her power, artistry, diplomacy, generosity, and resilience continue to stand out centuries later.
While concise, the biography manages to capture a complex and extraordinary woman who shaped an empire and left behind a legacy impossible to ignore.
Overall, Tiger Slayer is an engaging and visually rich biography that reclaims Nur Jahan’s place in history with clarity and grace. Whether you love Mughal history or simply enjoy stories about ambitious, complex women, this book is a must-read and a beautifully crafted tribute to one of India’s most fascinating empresses.
Tiger Slayer is a beautifully written and richly informative biography of Nur Jahan, the only woman to hold the title of Empress of India during the Mughal era. Set in the 17th century, this book captures not only the grandeur of her reign but also the struggle of a woman whose legacy was nearly erased from history.
What stood out immediately was the introduction by the storymaker and the artist. Their collaboration in bringing Mughal history to life through vivid art and storytelling felt both refreshing and immersive. I’ve read middle-grade nonfiction that covered the rise and fall of the Mughal Empire with chronological sequence of Mughal Emperors of the era, but this is the first time I’ve read a book fully dedicated to one remarkable queen who dared to rule beside an emperor and reshape history itself.
The story begins with Ghiyas’s family traveling from Persia to India, where Mihr, who would later become Nur Jahan, is born. From her humble beginnings to her upbringing in Emperor Akbar’s court, the book traces her family’s steady rise in the Mughal hierarchy. We see Mihr as a daughter, a wife, and a mother before she becomes the Empress. Her journey from obscurity to power, her influence within the harem, and her eventual co-rule alongside Emperor Jahangir are all vividly portrayed.
The writing is accessible yet insightful, perfect for readers curious about powerful women who shaped empires but were nearly forgotten. While it’s aimed at younger readers, it never talks down to them and offers enough depth to keep adults hooked too. Author perfectly blends storytelling, history, and art in a way that makes her world feel tangible and alive.
The format is another highlight of Tiger Slayer. There isn’t just text and illustrations but it also includes a map, side notes explaining Mughal court terminology, snippets of cultural context, and fascinating facts about rituals, people, and places. These thoughtful additions make the biography come alive and create a complete picture of the time period.
I was amazed by Nur’s intelligence and talent. She was a skilled shooter, a poet, an architect, and a sharp politician. What fascinated me most was learning that Nur Jahan was the first woman in Mughal history to give darshan (public appearance) from the palace balcony, a privilege that had always been reserved for emperors. She even issued royal decrees under her own seal and circulated silver coins that carried both her name and Jahangir’s. For a woman in the 17th century, that level of recognition was extraordinary.
Nur Jahan may have been Jahangir’s twentieth wife, but she was first in intellect, strength, and influence. While Jahangir was not as capable as his father Akbar, I admired him for the respect and power he granted Nur Jahan. He loved her deeply, trusted her judgment, and allowed her to share his authority, which was almost unheard of at the time.
Her eventual downfall was sad but not exactly surprising. Her open support for Prince Khurram, who later became Shah Jahan, was controversial, and her later decision to marry her daughter Ladli to another prince, and favoring that prince made her appear politically inconsistent. It showed a flaw in her character, where ambition conflicted with maternal instinct. Yet, it was also easy to understand her choices as those of a mother trying to protect her child in a dangerous political landscape.
I couldn’t help but wonder what might have happened if she had continued supporting Khurram. Her influence might have lasted longer, and she might have even played a part in creating the Taj Mahal, which carries traces of her own architectural vision.
Despite her mistakes, it was disheartening to see how Shah Jahan tried to erase her from history. I agree with author here — no matter how hard he tried, Nur Jahan’s brilliance could not be forgotten. Her power, artistry, diplomacy, generosity, and resilience continue to stand out centuries later.
While concise, the biography manages to capture a complex and extraordinary woman who shaped an empire and left behind a legacy impossible to ignore.
Overall, Tiger Slayer is an engaging and visually rich biography that reclaims Nur Jahan’s place in history with clarity and grace. Whether you love Mughal history or simply enjoy stories about ambitious, complex women, this book is a must-read and a beautifully crafted tribute to one of India’s most fascinating empresses.
October 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Ruby Lal, Molly Crabapple - Illustrator, and W. W. Norton & Co/Norton Young Readers for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2025
Excellent Biography
A biography of a person I’d never heard of before, Nur Jahan, the only female co-ruler of the Mughal Empire. Not born into a royal family and being the 20th wife of Emperor Jahangir, Nur shouldn’t have been able to become as powerful as she did, but she succeeded.
A biography of a person I’d never heard of before, Nur Jahan, the only female co-ruler of the Mughal Empire. Not born into a royal family and being the 20th wife of Emperor Jahangir, Nur shouldn’t have been able to become as powerful as she did, but she succeeded.
August 23, 2025
Well written and beautifully illustrated, this was a fascinating look at an extraordinary woman who rose to power in Mughal India in the early 17th century. Absolutely amazing biography.
November 19, 2025
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2025/11/bo...
Tiger Slayer is an illustrated biography of Nur Jahan, the only Empress who ruled along with an Emperor during the Mughal rule. The book starts with the birth of Mihr Un-Nisa in 1577 when her family migrated from Persia to India. While the Mughal prince Salim expressed interest in young Mihr, she was married off in 1594 at the age of seventeen to Ali Quli Beg, a Mughal officer.
After marriage Mihr moved to Burdwan with her husband and had a daughter Ladli in 1600. Meanwhile Emperor Akbar passed away and Prince Salim who is now called Jahangir succeeded his father. During a rebellion against the Emperor, due to misunderstanding, Quli was killed by the local soldiers. The imperial order summoned Mihr and daughter back to Agra and Emperor Jahangir married Mihr as his twentieth wife in 1611. Jahangir gave Mihr a new name — Nur Mahal, Light of the Palace.
From Mihr to Nur-Jahan Begam, to being famously known as the Tiger Slayer, to becoming a co-sovereign, to waging a battle to bring back her kidnapped husband, to helping orphaned girls, to presenting herself like a Goddess on their court balcony, to having coins minted in her name, to passing royal decrees — Nur accomplished what none of the other Mughal queens could ever think of. The story traces this journey of Mihr along with the Mughal rule, the rebellions, the parallel rise of her family members in the Mughal court.
The author earlier had a successful publication of Nur Jahan called The Empress, which has been re-narrated as Tiger Slayer to be relevant for Young Adult readers. The story is accompanied by exquisite illustrations by Molly Crabapple that capture the grandeur of the Mughal rule. The author mentions as closing comments how Nur’s prominence and accomplishments have been intentionally erased from some parts of history, hence books like the Tiger Slayer are important to read about the life of one of the most powerful Empress of Mughal times.
The extensive research done by the author reflects in the minute details captured in the story; I also liked how the author provides references of the historians who mentioned those life sequences, hence providing authenticity to the story. The story captures not just the rise of Nur but also the many challenges Emperors faced in those times, especially rebellion from their own family members and how Nur stayed as the power behind her husband in thwarting multiple problems, highlighting her presence of mind and political prowess on par with any other accomplished ruler.
While it is rich in historical detail and references, the fast paced narrative makes the political intrigue and battles of the Mughal court feel exciting and easy for young adult readers to follow.
Tiger Slayer is an illustrated biography of Nur Jahan, the only Empress who ruled along with an Emperor during the Mughal rule. The book starts with the birth of Mihr Un-Nisa in 1577 when her family migrated from Persia to India. While the Mughal prince Salim expressed interest in young Mihr, she was married off in 1594 at the age of seventeen to Ali Quli Beg, a Mughal officer.
After marriage Mihr moved to Burdwan with her husband and had a daughter Ladli in 1600. Meanwhile Emperor Akbar passed away and Prince Salim who is now called Jahangir succeeded his father. During a rebellion against the Emperor, due to misunderstanding, Quli was killed by the local soldiers. The imperial order summoned Mihr and daughter back to Agra and Emperor Jahangir married Mihr as his twentieth wife in 1611. Jahangir gave Mihr a new name — Nur Mahal, Light of the Palace.
From Mihr to Nur-Jahan Begam, to being famously known as the Tiger Slayer, to becoming a co-sovereign, to waging a battle to bring back her kidnapped husband, to helping orphaned girls, to presenting herself like a Goddess on their court balcony, to having coins minted in her name, to passing royal decrees — Nur accomplished what none of the other Mughal queens could ever think of. The story traces this journey of Mihr along with the Mughal rule, the rebellions, the parallel rise of her family members in the Mughal court.
The author earlier had a successful publication of Nur Jahan called The Empress, which has been re-narrated as Tiger Slayer to be relevant for Young Adult readers. The story is accompanied by exquisite illustrations by Molly Crabapple that capture the grandeur of the Mughal rule. The author mentions as closing comments how Nur’s prominence and accomplishments have been intentionally erased from some parts of history, hence books like the Tiger Slayer are important to read about the life of one of the most powerful Empress of Mughal times.
The extensive research done by the author reflects in the minute details captured in the story; I also liked how the author provides references of the historians who mentioned those life sequences, hence providing authenticity to the story. The story captures not just the rise of Nur but also the many challenges Emperors faced in those times, especially rebellion from their own family members and how Nur stayed as the power behind her husband in thwarting multiple problems, highlighting her presence of mind and political prowess on par with any other accomplished ruler.
While it is rich in historical detail and references, the fast paced narrative makes the political intrigue and battles of the Mughal court feel exciting and easy for young adult readers to follow.
August 25, 2025
Historian Ruby Lal has adapted her authoritative 2018 adult biography of Nur Jahar for middle grade readers with Molly Crabapple contributing charming and bright watercolors reminiscent of Indian and Persian artwork. Although the 17th-century empress is well known as the beloved 20th (and last) wife of Jahangir, the 4th Mughal emperor, Lal wants to show readers the strong, capable, and compassionate woman behind the romantic legend. Starting with Nur’s childhood, readers will follow the (admittedly) underdocumented story of then baby Mihr un Nisa, born on her parents’ journey from Persia to India. In the book’s early pages, Lal carefully outlines how historians use sources, including diaries, portraits, and legends to tell stories about their subjects and adds sidebars, insets, and thumbnail biographies of important actors. Her language and writing are accessible and packed with vivid details: the sights and sounds of India, the extraordinary migrations of the Mughal royal court, and Nur Jahar’s daring exploits, including a tiger hunt, a royal kidnapping, and a battle with the empress mounted on an elephant. Given the lack of material on her subject’s daily life, Lal extrapolates but indicates this clearly; Mihr un Nisa may have eaten this or seen that, Nur Jahar might have taken her daughter on picnics, and the royal couple may have seen waterfalls and worn sheepskin coats on a trip to the Kashmir Valley. Crabapple’s delicate and detailed paintings appear every two or three pages and some adventures fill an entire wordless page or even the occasional two-page spread. We see Nur on her wedding day, appearing at a window above her adoring subjects, and overseeing the construction of her father’s magnificent tomb. Supplemental matter includes a short personable introduction to both the author and the illustrator, a map of the Mughal empire, a list of “characters”, and sources and notes. An excellent table of contents and astonishingly detailed index will make navigating the book a snap. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
August 29, 2025
'She seized a gun and saved her people'.
Ruby Lal, has re-edited her well-received book, Empress, for the benefit of middle grade readers. Nur Jahan, born in 1577 in what is now known as Afghanistan was a remarkable woman - especially given the time, place and circumstances of her birth. After becoming the twentieth wife of Mughal Jahangir, she quickly became a force to be reckoned with. Not only was she politically savvy, she was a skilled hunter (famously shooting a tiger that had been killing local villagers, while perched upon an elephant), as well true lover of the arts.
Nur Jahan's story is inspirational, and taking it to younger readers is highly commendable. However, while the tone is very 'once upon a time', the amount of contextual detail could be overwhelming for a younger audience. While call-out boxes highlight word definitions or give greater clarity on events, and illustrations break up the text, overall the pace is slow and, I believe, attention from young readers could easily segue. I did thoroughly enjoy reading about this phenomenal lady, and I certainly segued too - but that was to go down rabbit holes of my own research!
'Her power and resilience were visible to family members, court historians, poets and diplomats'.
Ruby Lal, has re-edited her well-received book, Empress, for the benefit of middle grade readers. Nur Jahan, born in 1577 in what is now known as Afghanistan was a remarkable woman - especially given the time, place and circumstances of her birth. After becoming the twentieth wife of Mughal Jahangir, she quickly became a force to be reckoned with. Not only was she politically savvy, she was a skilled hunter (famously shooting a tiger that had been killing local villagers, while perched upon an elephant), as well true lover of the arts.
Nur Jahan's story is inspirational, and taking it to younger readers is highly commendable. However, while the tone is very 'once upon a time', the amount of contextual detail could be overwhelming for a younger audience. While call-out boxes highlight word definitions or give greater clarity on events, and illustrations break up the text, overall the pace is slow and, I believe, attention from young readers could easily segue. I did thoroughly enjoy reading about this phenomenal lady, and I certainly segued too - but that was to go down rabbit holes of my own research!
'Her power and resilience were visible to family members, court historians, poets and diplomats'.
October 11, 2025
’Tiger Slayer’ by Ruby Lal chronicles the glorious life of the Mughal empress, Nur Jahan. Born as Mihr un Nisa, she symbolised a glimmer of hope for her parents who lost everything during their journey from Persia to India. The read takes us back to the time when Mihr would be regaled with stories from Ramayan and One Thousand and One Nights. The tales shaped her as a woman of repute who would later on be the Empress Nur Jahan.
The grandeur of Mughal empire, how they influenced Indian culture, the etymology of words add credibility to the source material. Lal's meticulous research and findings highlight the depth of Mughal contributions while offering readers a nuanced perspective on the interplay between history, language, and culture. The history geek in me was aroused by the intricate details that not only shaped Mihr’s life but also influenced those around her.
The gorgeous illustrations by Molly Crabapple picturised the elaborate descriptions of flowing robes, Akbar's throne gave a sensory experience of reveling in the royalty of an era gone by.
Highly recommend this book to seasoned readers, history lovers or anyone curious to know about the happenings of the Mughal empire.
The grandeur of Mughal empire, how they influenced Indian culture, the etymology of words add credibility to the source material. Lal's meticulous research and findings highlight the depth of Mughal contributions while offering readers a nuanced perspective on the interplay between history, language, and culture. The history geek in me was aroused by the intricate details that not only shaped Mihr’s life but also influenced those around her.
The gorgeous illustrations by Molly Crabapple picturised the elaborate descriptions of flowing robes, Akbar's throne gave a sensory experience of reveling in the royalty of an era gone by.
Highly recommend this book to seasoned readers, history lovers or anyone curious to know about the happenings of the Mughal empire.
August 9, 2025
Tiger Slayer introduces readers to an amazing, powerful, and respected woman who ruled in a new and daring way. The story follows Nur Jahan, a Muslim Empress that ruled an impressive empire in India over 400 years ago. Following her life, readers learn how Nur Jahan was incredibly intelligent, compassionate, and competent. She hunted tigers with skill, rode elephants with grace, designed beautiful and long lasting public buildings, truly cared for and helped those of lower status and gained the ability to make royal decrees in her own name - something unheard of before.
The illustrations are beautiful and incredibly detailed, making the book feel like an ancient fairy tale. The story is engaging, and extremely difficult to put down. Readers of all ages are sure to love this story! I am so happy that Ruby Lal and artist Molly Crabapple made this younger-reader version, as it serves as an amazing appetizer for the adult version of the book (Empress: The Astonishing Reign of Nur Jahan). I can’t wait to read more!!
The illustrations are beautiful and incredibly detailed, making the book feel like an ancient fairy tale. The story is engaging, and extremely difficult to put down. Readers of all ages are sure to love this story! I am so happy that Ruby Lal and artist Molly Crabapple made this younger-reader version, as it serves as an amazing appetizer for the adult version of the book (Empress: The Astonishing Reign of Nur Jahan). I can’t wait to read more!!
August 14, 2025
Tiger Slayer: The Extraordinary Story of Nur Jahan, Empress of India truly does tell an extraordinary story. I really appreciated being introduced to a person, place and time period that I knew essentially nothing about. Since my knowledge going in was so small, I enjoyed the background information that the author provided. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of Tiger Slayer from Publisher's Weekly's Grab a Galley Giveaway, so the illustrations were not in color as they will be in the final copies, but they were still beautiful and intricate and added a lot to the book. My only struggle was figuring out who the intended audience is. It is billed as a middle grade book, and the length and format did seem middle grade, however the writing and information seemed more like YA or even adult. Again, as an adult getting a light overview of a fascinating woman's life this book was perfect. It made me want to read the author's other book about Nur Jahan which is written for adults. But, to me, it just didn't read as a children's book.
September 27, 2025
Tiger Slayer is one of those books that makes history feel alive in the best way possible. Ruby Lal’s storytelling is crisp and immersive, blending historical accuracy with a narrative style that’s approachable for young readers. What stood out to me most was the pacing—the book never drags, nor does it rush past the fascinating details. Each chapter flows into the next with a rhythm that keeps curiosity alive, and I found myself turning the pages quickly while still soaking in the richness of Mughal India.
Nur Jahan as a character, is beautifully brought to life. She’s not just painted as a powerful empress but also as a woman of intelligence, courage, and vision. The writing balances her humanity with her grandeur, which makes her accessible to children while still inspiring awe.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
Nur Jahan as a character, is beautifully brought to life. She’s not just painted as a powerful empress but also as a woman of intelligence, courage, and vision. The writing balances her humanity with her grandeur, which makes her accessible to children while still inspiring awe.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
July 21, 2025
This is a DNF review at 30%. Regrettably, while positioned as a biography, Tiger Slayer reads more like a general history textbook. The narrative is so bogged down with unnecessary background information and tangential fluff that the actual subject of the biography is completely lost.
This lack of focus is compounded by writing that is frequently clunky and awkward. The book often resorts to disorganized information dumps, with some paragraphs that read like a haphazard collection of non-sequitur facts.
After forcing myself through a third of the book without learning anything significant about the person it was meant to profile, I couldn't justify continuing. The book does contain some lovely art, but that isn't enough to save a text that feels dry, uninspired, and unfocused.
This lack of focus is compounded by writing that is frequently clunky and awkward. The book often resorts to disorganized information dumps, with some paragraphs that read like a haphazard collection of non-sequitur facts.
After forcing myself through a third of the book without learning anything significant about the person it was meant to profile, I couldn't justify continuing. The book does contain some lovely art, but that isn't enough to save a text that feels dry, uninspired, and unfocused.
November 25, 2025
On the one hand, the highs in this book are very high indeed -- the sheer beauty of the layout and the illustrations; the subject matter -- Nur is a fascinating woman; the delight in a person whose rise is directly tied to her kindness, intelligence and abilities; the loveliness of getting to read in depth about Mughal culture. For an intensely historical biography, it's everything you could want.
On the other hand, it's on the dry end of the spectrum. You have to want to read history, you have to want to know all the political details, you have to have a pretty high vocabulary. An invaluable resource if you want to write a paper. And it's dispiriting to know that someone can be so extraordinary and be mostly erased because of gender.
On the other hand, it's on the dry end of the spectrum. You have to want to read history, you have to want to know all the political details, you have to have a pretty high vocabulary. An invaluable resource if you want to write a paper. And it's dispiriting to know that someone can be so extraordinary and be mostly erased because of gender.
August 5, 2025
I enjoyed reading this fascinating biography of a unique woman. I had never heard of Nur Jahan before picking up this book, and hardly heard of the Mughal Empire. The author has done a good job of presenting everything we know about this amazing woman and her times. I liked learning everything included in the book. On the other hand, I tried reading it to my children, and they asked me to stop, because they were bored with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
August 23, 2025
The book beautifully combines engaging storytelling with stunning, detailed illustrations that evoke a fairy-tale atmosphere. It traces Nur Jahan’s journey from her birth during her family’s migration, through her marriages, to her rise as a powerful, intelligent, and compassionate leader who hunted tigers, designed lasting architecture, and wielded influence in a male-dominated court. Perfect for young readers and adults alike, this vibrant retelling inspires admiration for a remarkable historical figure and her daring legacy.
October 2, 2025
When I first picked up Tiger Slayer, I expected a simple history of Nur Jahan. What I got instead was a story that felt alive, almost like stepping into the Mughal court myself.
Ruby Lal doesn’t just list facts. She shows us a woman who hunted tigers, signed royal decrees, and even had coins minted in her name. Each page feels like peeling back a layer of history that schools never told us about. The illustrations bring her power and presence even closer.
By the end, I wasn’t just reading about an empress. I felt like I had met her. And she is unforgettable.
Ruby Lal doesn’t just list facts. She shows us a woman who hunted tigers, signed royal decrees, and even had coins minted in her name. Each page feels like peeling back a layer of history that schools never told us about. The illustrations bring her power and presence even closer.
By the end, I wasn’t just reading about an empress. I felt like I had met her. And she is unforgettable.
October 10, 2025
I won this book in an online giveaway from Norton Young Readers, which was quite thrilling!
While I agree with other reviews which find the book perhaps a little too advanced for some middle-grade readers, I did enjoy it immensely, and it bothered me that so many of us readers had never heard of Nur Jahan. I realized that I was really never taught anything about the Mughal Empire beyond the most superficial information, for example, the building of the Taj Mahal.
Molly Crabapple's illustrations are amazingly beautiful, as always, and add so much to the narrative.
While I agree with other reviews which find the book perhaps a little too advanced for some middle-grade readers, I did enjoy it immensely, and it bothered me that so many of us readers had never heard of Nur Jahan. I realized that I was really never taught anything about the Mughal Empire beyond the most superficial information, for example, the building of the Taj Mahal.
Molly Crabapple's illustrations are amazingly beautiful, as always, and add so much to the narrative.
July 8, 2025
4/5 STARS! Wow, this was a fun one! I'm not familiar with Nur's story, but found it quite fascinating & this was a real adventure to read. Love India & reading about their culture is always interesting. The art is perfect & adds so much to the story. This is a great book on a strong & courageous woman. Very well put together & extremely fun!
December 8, 2025
I was here for the art of Molly Crabapple and I wasn't disappointed on that end. The story was shortened and maybe I'm the wrong audience, but definitely not my style of writing. Anyway, overall a nice short read which unfortunately still drags..
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