The Wise Fool: Fables from the Islamic World

In recent years fewer anthologies have been published so this new collection of traditional tales is particularly welcome. Tales about Mulla Nasruddin – the Hodja – are particularly welcome since they are not so well known here. These are not fairy tales full of kings, princesses and magic, they are fables – comments on everyday behaviour. In this volume, Shahrukh Husain has gathered twenty-two of the Hodja stories, some no more than half a page, others a  little longer but all demonstrating a dry wit and ironic view of people’s foibles. Some will be recognised from other traditions –  ‘The price of steam’, for example; others will be unknown – delicious discoveries. This is a handsome volume illustrated with glowing artwork which reflects the colours found in the textiles, tiles and ceramics of the Middle East; it provides a richly satisfying accompaniment to the text. To help understanding there is a glossary, a pronunciation guide and a brief bibliography.  As a collection this could be read, or used with older children, KS3 and even adults. If you are a fan of Yiddish humour (see Adele Geras’s My Grandmother’s Stories), you will appreciate the Hodja.