The Arabian Nights: Their Best-Known Tales

I know that this is not the full collection of tales. I was disappointed that the editors didn't give us much of the framework that the original was set. There are only ten stories here, and they are not really linked together at all. It is more like reading an anthology than reading a coherent piece of literary work.

I also felt that something was missing in the translations. Although Allah is mentioned, they typically refer to God. Whether this is what the originals stated or if this is how it was translated by western scholars, I don't know.

When I saw this was illustrated by Parrish, I had images of his work throughout the book. Unfortunately, they are grouped together in a couple places with a small quote from the story they represent. Some of the pictures seem like they were created for something else, but looked close enough to work. Although the art is good, it doesn't fit into the book very well.

The flights of fancy are fun and this would be appropriate for children. I don't think adult readers would want this one.


Not the Arabian Nights   June 14, 1999
JeFF Stumpo (Bryan, TX United States)
11 out of 19 found this review helpful

While looking through the list of books on mythology, I couldn't help but notice a number of books containing "Arabian Nights" in the title. I hate to burst the bubble of anyone who plans to read this book, but I can tell you immediately that these are not the tales of the Arabian Nights. Aladdin was a character added completely from the mind of a French "translator," and Ali Baba and Sinbad are not included in the orignal Arabian Nights. If you want a decent copy of the stories, look for Haddaway's translation. If you want a version of the story appropriate for children, tone down the sex and violence, but please stay true to the story!