TALES FROM ARABIAN NIGHTS
Tales From Arabian Nights Series
What’s inside...
Tales from Arabian Nights, authored by Stella Maidment, is a collection of some of the most famous and enchanting stories from the classic Middle Eastern literature known as One Thousand and One Nights or Arabian Nights. The book typically includes a selection of tales told by the character Scheherazade, who narrates them to the Sultan Shahryar to delay her execution. The stories are known for their rich depiction of a world filled with adventure, magic, romance, and moral lessons. While the exact content of Maidment's adaptation may vary, it likely retells popular stories such as 'Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp,' 'Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,' and 'The Seven Voyages of Sinbad the Sailor' in a manner suitable for children or young readers. The tales are often abridged and rewritten to capture the essence of the original narratives while making them accessible to a modern audience.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-11
Length
124 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the characters' choices affect their adventures in the story?
What lesson do you think the main character learned by the end of the tale?
If you were in the story, how would you have handled the challenges faced by the characters?
What was your favorite part of the story, and why did it stand out to you?
How do you think the setting of the Arabian Nights influenced the events of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their views about the characters, possibly by relating to their own experiences.
Discuss the moral lessons embedded in the stories and how they can apply these lessons in their daily life.
Use vivid descriptions from the book to help the child visualize the scenes, enhancing their understanding and enjoyment of the story.
Pause at suspenseful moments in the story to predict together what might happen next, building anticipation and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of cleverness and wit
Explanation: In 'Tales from Arabian Nights,' characters like Scheherazade use intelligence and strategic storytelling to solve problems and preserve safety.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of using intellect and verbal skills to navigate challenging situations and resolve conflicts peacefully.
Example Lesson: The consequences of greed
Explanation: Stories such as 'Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves' illustrate how greed can lead to downfall and ruin, contrasting with the rewards of honesty and humility.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to value honesty and to be wary of the negative impacts of being overly greedy or materialistic in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The significance of bravery and courage
Explanation: Characters frequently face daunting challenges and adversaries, showing bravery and resilience, such as Aladdin when facing the sorcerer.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to face fears and stand up for what is right, building their confidence and courage in personal and social situations.
Example Lesson: The virtue of kindness and generosity
Explanation: Many tales, including the story of 'Sinbad the Sailor,' promote helping others and being generous, highlighting how these virtues often lead to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to practice generosity and kindness towards others, understanding that these qualities are rewarding and help in building strong relationships.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout 'Tales from Arabian Nights,' characters like Sinbad demonstrate persistence in overcoming obstacles, embodying the 'never give up' attitude.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance in achieving goals and overcoming difficulties in school and life.