The Essence of Rumi's Masnavi It is a remarkable research in English on Rumi that covers the period in which Rumi lived and the teachings of Rumi's father,his disciple Brurhaneddin Tirmizi and Rumi' Master Shams. Then the best verses of Rumi's Masnavi follow in original form (Persian), corrected under the light of authentic MSS.Then the English translation of the verses is given in two a)Literal translation of the verses b)The commentary of the same based on the best commentaries written in Urdu,Persian, Turkish(Ottoman) and English.
One of the best detailed summaries and break downs into Rumi's masterpiece. What I particularly liked about this version is that this book is in particular is well organized into thoughtful, clear and concise sections. Furthermore, I highly appreciated the fact that this book directly showcases the Masnevi's excerpt texts in both its original written language form, as well as in the English translation.
The book's introduction was also very helpful and insightful, too.