Twelve-year-old Leyla is dismayed to learn that the mighty Sultan wants to meet all the women of his household — even the servants and slaves — that very day. All she has to wear are her soiled gardening clothes! But the other girls set right to work transforming her.

They dress Leyla like a princess: A kaftan of the finest silk brocade is tied over a sheer, lace-trimmed blouse and baggy silk trousers. A silk chiffon scarf embroidered with gold thread is held in place by a rope of gold coins and a gold and emerald brooch. The girls also lend Leyla emerald earrings, gold bracelets, a fan, and long strings of pearls—they even braid pearls into her hair!

Leyla yearns for her family and her home. But when she discovers her kismet, or destiny, in Istanbul’s glorious Topkapi Palace, she learns to embrace her new life and face the future with hope.

Your 9-inch Leyla™ doll includes a stand and Leyla: The Black Tulip paperback book by Alev Lytle Croutier.

BRAND NEW, MINT IN BOX!  OUT OF PRODUCTION SINCE 2005.