The Books of Kherishdar

Step into the elegant, alien world of the Ai-Naidar, where caste and tradition form the foundation of society. These meditative books explore a civilization where knowing one's place brings comfort rather than constraint, and interdependence is valued over individualism. Through the eyes of the Calligrapher and the priest of Shame, readers discover a society both foreign and fascinating, where virtue and vice are handled with equal care.

The Series Includes:

  • The Aphorisms of Kherishdar - A collection of 25 short tales exploring Ai-Naidari virtues through vignettes
  • The Admonishments of Kherishdar - 25 darker narratives exploring how an orderly society handles transgressions
  • Black Blossom - A novel following the Calligrapher and the Shame Priest as they confront human influence
  • Kherishdar's Exception - A coming-of-age story examining the one role in society that exists outside its structures

Related Works:

  • Conversations with the Ai-Naidar and Further Conversations - Worldbuilding collections exploring the author's creative process

Reader Archetypes:

This series particularly appeals to:

  • Lucid Sojourners - Who appreciate the intense immersion in an alien perspective
  • Cosmic Observers - Who enjoy thoughtful exploration of societal structures
  • Galactic Tourists - Who value experiencing entirely different cultural frameworks

Perfect for readers who enjoy linguistic exploration, philosophical contemplation, and truly alien societies. The Books of Kherishdar offer a uniquely immersive experience with a fully realized non-human culture and its carefully constructed language.

Starting point: Begin with The Aphorisms of Kherishdar for a gentle introduction to this alien society, or jump directly to Black Blossom for a more traditional novel format.