Silverberg chose to tell Star of Gypsies as a first-person narrative, a technique used effectively in his historical novels. This point of view gives readers insight into Yakoub's mind allowing them to experience Yakoub's richly textured memories.

But the point of view also limits the author's depiction of other characters and prevents the reader from being present at some of the important moments of action, particularly during Yakoub's imprisonment. This restriction of narrative point of view allows Yakoub to explore his memories and reveal his sense of values.

Aside from the strengths and shortcomings of his choice of point of view, Silverberg's literary skills are displayed most clearly in his use of names and words with Romany origins. Because of the richness and amplitude of its language, the novel seems more like a romantic tale than a bare recital of its plot would suggest. Moreover, Yakoub's narrative is...