Abhinaya

The "Language of Gesture" used in Indian classical dance, Abhinaya is Mudra's means of communication. Fortunately, Rashid Khalifa is able to translate it for the Guppee.

Alifbay

An imaginary country whose name derives from the Hindustani word for "alphabet," Alifbay is where the earthbound parts of this novel occur.

Arabian Nights Plus One

Political candidate Snooty Buttoo's opulent houseboat on Lake Dull, Arabian Nights Plus One is the site of Haroun Khalifa's fateful meeting with Iff the Water Genie and the beginning of the story of the flight to the hidden, watery moon, Kahani. The windows are shaped like legendary birds, fish, and beasts. The living room is lined with book shelves, including a rare collection, The Oceans of the Streams of Story.

Bezaban

Derived from the Hindustani for "Without a Tongue," Bezaban is a colossal, tongueless, grinning idol carved out of black ice, standing in the...