Book details
Neem the Half-Boy: English-Dari Edition (Teaching Stories)
Description
(Bilingual English-Dari edition) Wanting badly to have a son, the Queen of Hich-Hich consults Arif the Wise Man on the matter. But because she fails to follow his precise instructions, she gives birth to a half-boy, whom she calls Neem. That Neem is able to make himself complete by an act of cleverness, negotiation and compromise teaches children much more than the expected, usual lesson of bravery. This enchanting tale, complete with fairies and a fire-breathing dragon, is marvelously and magically illustrated by Midori Mori and Robert Revels. Neem the Half-Boy is one of an illustrated series of Sufi teaching stories from the Middle East and Central Asia that were collected and adapted for children by Idries Shah, and that have captivated hearts and minds for more than a thousand years. The stories are designed to help children learn to examine their assumptions and to think for themselves.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
38 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Enrichment: Reading 'Neem the Half-Boy: English-Dari Edition' provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Afghanistan, as the story is rooted in traditional Afghan folklore and is presented in both English and Dari, offering a bilingual reading experience.
- Moral Lessons: Idries Shah's teaching stories are known for their ability to convey important life lessons and ethical values. 'Neem the Half-Boy' imparts moral teachings that are relevant to both children and adults, encouraging readers to reflect on themes such as kindness, resilience, and the importance of overcoming adversity.
- Language Learning: For those interested in learning Dari or improving their English, this bilingual edition serves as an excellent educational tool. It allows language learners to enhance their vocabulary and comprehension skills by reading the story in both languages side by side.
- Literary Appreciation: Idries Shah is a celebrated author in the realm of Sufi literature and storytelling. Reading 'Neem the Half-Boy' offers a chance to appreciate Shah's narrative style and his ability to weave profound wisdom into simple tales, making it a valuable addition to any literary enthusiast's collection.