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Seven Daughters and Seven Sons by Barbara Cohen, book cover

Seven Daughters and Seven Sons Summary

by Barbara Cohen

4.23 Goodreads · 5k ratingsFantasy224 pages13-min summary

Disguised as a boy to build a business empire, a determined young woman in ancient Arabia falls for the prince who knows her only as a man.

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Synopsis

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

In a land inspired by ancient Arabia, Buran, the eldest of seven daughters, defies societal expectations by refusing to be a burden on her impoverished family. Instead of marrying a man chosen by her father, she disguises herself as a boy named Buran and embarks on a perilous journey with a camel caravan to a distant city. There, she establishes a successful business as a merchant, proving her intelligence and entrepreneurial spirit. Her shop attracts the attention of the city's charming crown prince, Mahmud, with whom she begins to fall in love. Buran finds herself in a dilemma: reveal her true identity and risk losing her independence, her business, and potentially Mahmud's affection, or maintain her disguise and live a life of deception.
Difficulty
Easy
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Empowering, Romantic, Adventurous, Hopeful

Seven Daughters and Seven Sons Plot Summary

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

  1. A Father's Dilemma and a Daughter's Resolve

    Mahmud, a skilled but poor weaver in a small Arab village, struggles with the expectation to provide dowries for his seven daughters. He tells his wife of his despair, and she reminds him of their daughters' intelligence and abilities. Buran, the youngest and most spirited daughter, overhears her father. She is frustrated by the limited roles for women and the idea that her worth depends only on marriage. Inspired by a merchant's story of earning a fortune, Buran plans to disguise herself as a boy and travel to a distant city to seek her own fortune, hoping to help her family and prove her own worth.

  2. The Disguise and the Journey

    Buran convinces her parents, after much argument and her mother's eventual support, to let her pursue her plan. Her father, though reluctant, agrees, seeing it as their only hope. With her mother's help, Buran crafts her disguise, cutting her hair short, binding her chest, and donning boy's clothing. She renames herself 'Nasr' (meaning 'victory' in Arabic) to solidify her new identity. With a small sum of money and her father's weaving tools and patterns, Buran joins a merchant caravan bound for the city of Baghdad, experiencing desert travel while maintaining her masculine facade.

  3. Establishing a New Life in Baghdad

    Upon arrival in Baghdad, Nasr faces the immediate challenge of finding lodging and establishing herself. She secures a small shop and living quarters and begins to ply her trade, demonstrating her father's weaving skills. Her unique designs and high-quality fabrics quickly attract customers. Nasr is a shrewd businesswoman, managing her finances carefully and building a reputation for honesty and craftsmanship. She navigates the male-dominated marketplace with confidence, adapting her speech and mannerisms to maintain her disguise, all while experiencing the grand city and its diverse inhabitants.

  4. The Prince's Patronage

    Among Nasr's growing clientele is a young man named Mahmud, who is captivated by the beauty and artistry of her woven goods. Unbeknownst to Nasr, Mahmud is the crown prince of Baghdad, often venturing out in disguise to observe his people and their crafts. He finds Nasr's shop a refreshing change from the more traditional merchants. Their interactions soon go beyond mere transactions; they develop a genuine friendship, discussing art, philosophy, and life. Nasr is drawn to Mahmud's intelligence, kindness, and genuine interest, while constantly fearing her true identity will be revealed.

  5. Growing Affection and Internal Conflict

    As their friendship blossoms, Nasr finds herself falling in love with Prince Mahmud. She cherishes their conversations and time together, but the deception weighs heavily on her heart. She yearns to reveal her true self but fears the consequences: losing Mahmud's friendship, her business, and potentially facing severe punishment for her fraud. Mahmud, too, is increasingly drawn to Nasr, admiring 'his' wisdom, wit, and gentle nature. These feelings confuse and disturb him as they are directed towards another 'man.' This internal conflict creates a tension between them.

  6. The Sultan's Decree and Mahmud's Dilemma

    The Sultan, Mahmud's father, begins to pressure his son to choose a wife and secure the royal succession. Mahmud, however, is preoccupied with his feelings for Nasr. In a moment of vulnerability, he confides in his father, expressing his deep affection for 'Nasr' and his confusion over these unconventional emotions. The Sultan, initially perplexed and concerned by his son's confession, advises Mahmud to truly understand his feelings and to seek clarity before making any decisions. This revelation from Mahmud both thrills and terrifies Nasr, as it confirms his feelings but also heightens the risk of exposure.

  7. A Royal Invitation and a Desperate Hope

    Driven by his strong feelings, Prince Mahmud invites Nasr to visit the royal palace, an unprecedented gesture for a common merchant. This invitation throws Buran into turmoil. She recognizes it as an important moment. The thought of revealing her true identity to Mahmud, confessing her love and the deception, fills her with both terror and a desperate hope. She knows that if she is to have any future with Mahmud, or even a chance at true happiness, she must find a way to unveil her secret. But the timing and manner of such a revelation are fraught with danger.

  8. The Revelation and the Test

    Summoning all her courage, Buran, at the palace, finally reveals her true identity to Prince Mahmud. She takes off her turban, lets down her hair, and explains her reasons for the disguise. Mahmud is initially stunned, then angry at the deception, but his anger is quickly overshadowed by relief and overwhelming joy that the person he loved is, in fact, a woman. He understands her motivations and admires her bravery. However, to prove her worth and ensure she is not merely a fortune-seeker, Mahmud, with the Sultan's guidance, devises a test: Buran must prove herself worthy of a prince's hand by completing a seemingly impossible task.

  9. Buran's Final Challenge

    The 'impossible task' given to Buran by Prince Mahmud (with the Sultan's approval) is to weave a tapestry that visually narrates her entire journey: from her village, her disguise as Nasr, her travels to Baghdad, her establishment of the weaving business, her friendship with Mahmud, and finally, the revelation of her true identity and their love. This task is designed to show her skill, her honesty, and the depth of her character and affection. Buran accepts the challenge with determination, pouring her heart and soul into the weaving, using her father's techniques and her own artistic vision to create a masterpiece.

  10. Triumph and Union

    Buran successfully completes the magnificent tapestry, each thread telling a part of her extraordinary story. When presented to the Sultan and Mahmud, its beauty and narrative power are undeniable. The tapestry shows Buran's exceptional talent, courage, integrity, and deep love for Mahmud. Impressed and moved, the Sultan gives his blessing, and Mahmud joyfully asks Buran to be his wife. Buran returns to her village, no longer as 'Nasr' but as herself, triumphant and celebrated. She shares her fortune with her family, ensuring her sisters' dowries, and eventually marries Prince Mahmud, becoming a beloved princess and proving that a woman's worth extends far beyond traditional expectations.

Principal Figures

Buran / Nasr

Protagonist

The courageous and clever daughter who disguises herself as a boy to seek her fortune.

Buran is the youngest of seven daughters, spirited, intelligent, and deeply resentful of the societal limitations placed upon women. She possesses a keen mind for business and an artistic talent for weaving, inherited from her father. Her determination to prove her worth and save her family from poverty drives her to undertake the perilous journey and maintain a male disguise. As 'Nasr,' she is shrewd, hardworking, and respected, navigating a male-dominated world with remarkable resilience and wit. She grapples with the emotional toll of her deception, especially as she falls in love.

Relationships: Mahmud (Prince) (Love interest; initially a close friend, then fiancé.); Mahmud (Father) (Father; initially disapproving, then supportive.); Mother (Mother; supportive and encouraging.); Sisters (Sisters; motivation for her quest.)

Mahmud (Prince)

Supporting

The kind and intelligent Crown Prince of Baghdad who falls in love with 'Nasr'.

Prince Mahmud is presented as a benevolent and thoughtful ruler-to-be, who often walks among his people in disguise to understand their lives. He is discerning, with an appreciation for art and craftsmanship, which draws him to Nasr's shop. He is initially confused by his strong affection for 'Nasr,' believing him to be a man, but his love proves to be genuine and deep. He is open-minded enough to accept Buran's true identity and her unconventional path, eventually becoming her loving partner and advocate.

Relationships: Buran / Nasr (Love interest; initially a close friend, then fiancé.); Sultan (Father) (Father; advisor and mentor.)

Mahmud (Father)

Supporting

Buran's impoverished but skilled weaver father.

Buran's father is a master weaver whose artistic talent is not matched by his business acumen. He is a loving father but is deeply troubled by his inability to provide dowries for his seven daughters, feeling the weight of societal expectations. He is initially resistant to Buran's radical plan, fearing for her safety and reputation, but ultimately agrees out of desperation and a growing understanding of her unique spirit. He provides her with the tools and knowledge that enable her success.

Relationships: Buran (Daughter; initially a source of worry, then pride.); Wife (Wife; supportive partner.)

Buran's Mother

Supporting

The wise and supportive mother who encourages Buran's ambitious plan.

Buran's mother is a pragmatic and deeply loving woman who understands and champions her daughter's intelligence and spirit. Unlike her husband, she is quicker to see the potential in Buran's unconventional idea, recognizing it as a viable solution to their family's predicament. She helps Buran prepare for her journey and disguise, offering emotional support and practical advice. She represents a quiet strength and a more progressive understanding of women's capabilities within the family unit.

Relationships: Buran (Daughter; confidante and supporter.); Mahmud (Father) (Husband; supportive partner.)

The Sultan

Supporting

The wise and just ruler of Baghdad, Prince Mahmud's father.

The Sultan is a figure of authority and wisdom. He is concerned with the welfare of his kingdom and the proper succession, leading him to pressure his son to marry. While initially puzzled by Mahmud's feelings for 'Nasr,' he proves to be open-minded and discerning. He values truth, skill, and character, which is evident in his decision to test Buran rather than immediately condemn her for her deception. His ultimate approval is crucial for Buran and Mahmud's union.

Relationships: Mahmud (Prince) (Son; advisor and mentor.)

The Merchant

Supporting

A traveling merchant whose stories inspire Buran.

The Merchant is a minor character whose brief appearance serves as a catalyst for Buran's journey. His tales of travel, trade, and the fortunes to be made in distant cities ignite Buran's imagination and provide her with the initial idea and motivation to seek her own wealth. He represents the wider world beyond her village and the possibilities available to those brave enough to venture out.

Relationships: Buran (Inspiration.)

Buran's Six Sisters

Supporting

Buran's older sisters, whose dowries are a family concern.

Buran's six older sisters are not individually developed characters but collectively represent the societal expectations and financial burdens that motivate Buran's quest. Their need for dowries highlights the predicament of their family and the limited options available to women in their society. Their eventual well-being is a direct result of Buran's success, demonstrating the positive ripple effect of her courage.

Relationships: Buran (Sister; object of her sacrifice and success.)

The Caravan Leader

Supporting

The leader of the caravan that takes 'Nasr' to Baghdad.

The Caravan Leader is a gruff but fair man who oversees the journey to Baghdad. He provides 'Nasr' with safe passage and introduces 'him' to the practicalities and dangers of desert travel and trade. He is a figure of authority and experience, offering a glimpse into the merchant world that Buran is entering. His acceptance of 'Nasr' as a young male merchant is crucial for Buran's initial integration into her new identity.

Relationships: Buran / Nasr (Employer/travel companion.)

Themes & Insights

Gender Roles and Expectations

The novel examines the rigid gender roles in ancient Arab society, where women are confined to the home and valued for their ability to marry and bear children. Buran's journey challenges these expectations, as she defies tradition to seek economic independence and personal fulfillment. Her success as 'Nasr' highlights the untapped potential of women and the arbitrary nature of these societal limits. The story argues for individual merit over gendered limitations.

“For the first time, Buran saw that a woman could do more than spin and weave and marry and bear children. A woman could be a merchant.”
Narrator

Identity and Deception

Buran's disguise as 'Nasr' is central to the narrative, exploring identity, self-discovery, and the burden of deception. While her male persona grants her freedom and opportunity, it also creates an emotional gap, especially when she falls in love. The constant fear of exposure and the internal conflict between her true self and her assumed identity drive much of the plot. The story suggests that true happiness and love can only be found when one is authentic, even if that authenticity comes at a great risk.

“Every morning Nasr would look in the mirror and see Buran, and every evening Buran would see Nasr, and both of them wondered who was truly real.”
Narrator

Courage and Resourcefulness

Buran shows immense courage and resourcefulness throughout her journey. From the initial decision to leave her village and disguise herself, to navigating the challenges of a bustling city, establishing a business, and eventually revealing her truth, her actions demonstrate bravery. Her resourcefulness is evident in her quick learning, her business acumen, and her ability to adapt to new environments. The novel celebrates individual initiative and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles through will and intelligence.

“She had traveled all this way. She had built a business. She had lived a lie. She would not fail now.”
Buran's internal thought

Love and Acceptance

The romantic relationship between Buran and Prince Mahmud explores the nature of love and acceptance beyond superficial appearances and societal norms. Mahmud falls in love with 'Nasr' based on character, intellect, and kindness, challenging his own ideas of attraction. When Buran's true identity is revealed, his ability to overcome initial shock and anger, and to accept her for who she is and what she has done, highlights a deep and unconditional love. The story champions a love that values the inner person above all else.

“It was not a man I loved, my father, but the heart and mind within him. And if that heart and mind belong to a woman, then so be it.”
Prince Mahmud

Family Duty and Sacrifice

Buran's initial motivation stems from a deep sense of family duty and a desire to help her father financially and secure her sisters' futures. Her entire arduous journey is a sacrifice made for her family's well-being. This theme highlights the importance of familial bonds and the lengths to which an individual might go to ensure their loved ones' prosperity. Her eventual return and sharing of her fortune fulfill this duty, demonstrating the impact of her personal sacrifice.

“She would do it for her father, for her mother, for all her sisters. She would do it for herself.”
Narrator

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Disguise

Buran's male persona as 'Nasr'.

The central plot device is Buran's disguise as a young man named Nasr. This allows her to defy societal restrictions placed on women, enabling her to travel, engage in commerce, and achieve financial independence. The disguise creates both opportunities and profound internal and external conflicts, particularly in her relationship with Prince Mahmud. It is the catalyst for her adventures and the source of dramatic tension, as the threat of exposure constantly looms.

The 'Impossible' Task/Test

Buran's final challenge to weave her story.

After Buran reveals her true identity, Prince Mahmud (with the Sultan's counsel) sets an 'impossible' task for her: to weave a tapestry depicting her entire journey and love story. This device serves as a final trial of her character, skill, and honesty, proving her worthiness beyond her wealth or gender. It allows her to creatively and symbolically summarize her adventure, using her inherent talent to win acceptance and secure her future.

Mistaken Identity

Prince Mahmud's belief that 'Nasr' is a man.

This device creates both humor and poignant emotional conflict. Prince Mahmud falls in love with Buran while believing her to be a man, leading to his confusion and internal struggle over his feelings. This mistaken identity highlights the idea that love transcends physical appearance or gender, focusing instead on character and connection. It builds suspense leading up to the revelation and ultimately strengthens the theme of acceptance.

The Royal Disguise

Prince Mahmud often ventures out in commoner's clothes.

Prince Mahmud's habit of disguising himself as a commoner allows him to interact with his subjects, including Nasr, on a more personal and authentic level. This device facilitates his initial connection with Buran, as it removes the barriers of rank and allows for a genuine friendship to develop. It also subtly mirrors Buran's own disguise, suggesting a shared desire to transcend societal roles, albeit for different reasons.

Quiz

10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.

  1. Question 1

    What is the main character's name in "Seven Daughters and Seven Sons"?

    1. Mahmud
    2. Buran
    3. Fatima
    4. Ali
    Show answer

    B. Buran The protagonist's name is explicitly stated as Buran.

  2. Question 2

    Why does Buran disguise herself as a boy?

    1. To escape an arranged marriage and pursue a business career.
    2. To explore the ancient Arab nation freely.
    3. To gain access to education typically reserved for boys.
    4. To participate in camel caravan races.
    Show answer

    A. To escape an arranged marriage and pursue a business career. Buran's primary motivation is to avoid an arranged marriage and establish her own fortune, which requires her to operate in a male-dominated business world.

  3. Question 3

    What mode of transportation does Buran use to travel to the distant city?

    1. A ship
    2. A horse
    3. A camel caravan
    4. A chariot
    Show answer

    C. A camel caravan The text explicitly mentions that she travels by camel caravan.

  4. Question 4

    What is the name of the crown prince Buran falls in love with?

    1. Buran
    2. Ali
    3. Mahmud
    4. Omar
    Show answer

    C. Mahmud The text states that the city's crown prince, Mahmud, comes to her shop and she falls in love with him.

  5. Question 5

    What is the central conflict Buran faces regarding her relationship with Mahmud?

    1. He is already married to someone else.
    2. Her father disapproves of him.
    3. Revealing her true identity as a woman would jeopardize her business and reputation.
    4. He is unaware of her existence.
    Show answer

    C. Revealing her true identity as a woman would jeopardize her business and reputation. The core dilemma is that if Mahmud discovers Buran is a woman, she risks losing all the success she has built under her male disguise.

  6. Question 6

    What genre categories are associated with the book "Seven Daughters and Seven Sons"?

    1. Science Fiction, Mystery, Thriller
    2. Fantasy, Children's, Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Romance
    3. Biography, Autobiography, Memoir
    4. Horror, Gothic, Supernatural
    Show answer

    B. Fantasy, Children's, Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Romance The provided genres for the book are Fantasy, Children's, Historical Fiction, Young Adult, and Romance.

  7. Question 7

    In which type of setting does Buran establish her successful business?

    1. Her family's home village
    2. A bustling, distant city
    3. A nomadic encampment
    4. A royal palace
    Show answer

    B. A bustling, distant city Buran travels to a 'distant city' where she sets up her business.

  8. Question 8

    What is Buran determined to achieve that goes against the traditional expectations for women in her society?

    1. To become a renowned poet.
    2. To lead a military expedition.
    3. To earn a fortune and use her skills independently.
    4. To discover a lost ancient artifact.
    Show answer

    C. To earn a fortune and use her skills independently. Buran's ambition is to 'use her skills and earn a fortune,' which is presented as an unconventional goal for women in her society.

  9. Question 9

    The story implies that the ancient Arab nation where Buran lives has societal norms that:

    1. Encourage women to travel and conduct business independently.
    2. Prioritize arranged marriages over personal ambition for women.
    3. Allow women to hold positions of power within the royal court.
    4. Value women's contributions to trade and commerce above all else.
    Show answer

    B. Prioritize arranged marriages over personal ambition for women. Buran's need to disguise herself to pursue business and avoid marriage highlights the societal constraints placed upon women, suggesting that arranged marriages and domestic roles are prioritized over independent careers.

  10. Question 10

    What is the primary risk associated with Buran revealing her true gender to Prince Mahmud?

    1. She could be banished from the city.
    2. She might lose his affection.
    3. She could face severe legal punishment for deception.
    4. She would lose everything she has worked for, implying her business and status.
    Show answer

    D. She would lose everything she has worked for, implying her business and status. The text explicitly states, 'But if she reveals to Mahmud that she is a woman, she will lose everything she has worked for.' This refers to the success and standing she has achieved.

Seven Daughters and Seven Sons FAQ

What is the story of Seven Daughters and Seven Sons about?

Seven Daughters and Seven Sons tells the story of Buran, a young woman in an ancient Arab nation who defies tradition. To escape an arranged marriage and pursue her own ambitions, she disguises herself as a boy and travels to a distant city to build a business.

Who is the main character in Seven Daughters and Seven Sons?

The main character is Buran, a spirited young woman who is determined to forge her own path in a society with strict expectations for women.

What challenges does Buran face in the book?

Buran faces the challenge of maintaining her male disguise to succeed in business and avoid an unwanted marriage. She also grapples with falling in love with the crown prince while hiding her true identity.

What is the setting of Seven Daughters and Seven Sons?

The story is set in an ancient Arab nation, featuring travel by camel caravan and a bustling distant city.

What genres does Seven Daughters and Seven Sons fall under?

The book combines elements of fantasy, historical fiction, young adult fiction, and romance.

Is there romance in Seven Daughters and Seven Sons?

Yes, there is a significant romantic subplot where Buran falls in love with the city's crown prince, Mahmud, while disguised as a boy.

What is the central conflict of the story?

The central conflict revolves around Buran's struggle to balance her ambition and independence with the societal constraints placed upon women, and the risk of losing everything if her true identity is revealed.

What makes Buran's story unique?

Buran's story is unique because she actively rejects the traditional role of women in her society, taking bold steps to control her own destiny and achieve success on her own terms.

What are some themes explored in Seven Daughters and Seven Sons?

The book explores themes of gender roles, ambition, identity, love, and the courage to defy societal expectations.

What kind of journey does Buran undertake?

Buran undertakes a physical journey by camel caravan to a new city and a personal journey of self-discovery as she navigates her disguise, business, and burgeoning romance.

About the author

Barbara Cohen

Barbara Cohen was an American author known for her historical fiction for young adults. Her most recognized work, "Seven Daughters and Seven Sons," published in 1985, is a retelling of an ancient Persian folktale. Cohen often explored themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage in her novels.

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