Book details
Fatima the Spinner and the Tent: English-Dari Edition (Teaching Stories)
Description
Fatima the Spinner and the Tent is a bilingual English-Dari edition that tells the story of Fatima, a young woman whose journey from the West is fraught with disasters. Shipwrecked near Alexandria, Egypt, she is adopted by a local family of weavers. However, her challenges continue as she is captured and forced to work on making masts for ships. Another shipwreck off the coast of China brings further challenges, but also realization and fulfillment. The tale, attributed to Sheikh Mohamed Jamaludin of Adrianople and illustrated by Natasha Delmar, emphasizes perseverance and is filled with rich cultural illustrations.
Age
5-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
38 pages
Book in series
#3
Why to read
- Idries Shah's stories are known for their teaching qualities, imparting wisdom and moral lessons that are valuable for readers of all ages. 'Fatima the Spinner and the Tent' is no exception, providing timeless lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the unfolding of one's destiny.
- Reading 'Fatima the Spinner and the Tent' provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the rich cultural heritage and storytelling traditions of the Middle East and Central Asia, as Idries Shah was a prominent author in bringing Sufi and Eastern folklore to Western audiences.
- The English-Dari edition of this book serves as an excellent resource for those interested in learning Dari (the Afghan dialect of Persian), as well as for Dari speakers who wish to improve their English skills, offering a side-by-side comparison that can enhance language acquisition.
- The book is a fine example of Idries Shah's ability to weave narrative and teaching into a seamless story. Readers who appreciate literature and storytelling will find enjoyment in the narrative structure, character development, and the way the story conveys profound truths in a simple and accessible manner.