Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. The Arabian Nights. Mischievous jinnis, cunning caliphs and talking animals populate a wondrous, minaret-filled world.

Nine traditional folk tales from many Middle Eastern and North African traditions are brought to life by author Jehanne Moharram and the delightful illustrations of artist Chaymaa Sobhy. These include:

• How Morgana Saved the Day (Lebanon): Ali Baba's servant outsmarts the forty thieves, proving along the way that loyalty and bravery can pay richer rewards than jealousy and greed
• The Little Red Fish and the Clog of Gold (Iraq): Kindness is the key message in this Cinderella tale--where a fish's friendship outlasts and overpowers a stepmother's wicked ways
• Goha and the Price of Steam (Egypt): A wise fool offers valuable lessons on humility, perseverance and how to prepare the perfect meal
• The Fisherman and the Jinni (Gulf States): A jinni teaches an angler the importance of clear thinking
• And many more!