The Arabian Nights: Their Best Known Tales : Book Review

"The Arabian Nights" is a remarkable assortment of Middle Eastern folk tales curated by Kate Douglas Wiggin. This captivating book takes us on an enchanting expedition through the mythical and magical realm of ancient Arabia.

The story begins with Scheherazade, a young bride who cleverly weaves tales to her husband, the sultan, in order to save her life. Each night, she enthralls him with intricate stories filled with adventure, romance, and valuable lessons.

Wiggin's retelling of these tales is both engrossing and evocative. She skillfully captures the essence of Arabian culture and folklore, transporting readers to a time and place filled with vibrant characters, exotic landscapes, and enchanting supernatural beings.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its diversity of stories. From the magical lamp of Aladdin, to the daring adventures of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, to Sinbad the Sailor's thrilling escapades, each tale offers a unique and captivating narrative that will undoubtedly enthrall readers of all ages.

Wiggin's writing style is elegant and engaging, effortlessly drawing readers into the mesmerizing world she has created. Her use of lush descriptions and vivid imagery breathes life into the stories, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the magic and wonder of "The Arabian Nights."

What are readers saying?

Readers have diverse opinions on Kate Douglas Wiggin's book "The Arabian Nights." Some reviewers praised its ability to transport them to a captivating and magical world. They commended Wiggin's storytelling skills and believed she captured the essence of the original Arabian Nights tales. These readers found the book immersive, with its vivid descriptions and lively characters. They also appreciated its educational value, particularly for those interested in Middle Eastern folklore and culture.

On the other hand, some readers expressed disappointment with "The Arabian Nights." They felt that Wiggin's retelling lacked the depth and authenticity of the original tales. They found the language and writing style to be outdated, making it difficult to engage with the book. Some critics also highlighted the lack of diversity and cultural sensitivity in Wiggin's portrayal of Middle Eastern characters.

Certain reviewers considered the book suitable for children, finding it charming and appropriate for young readers, as it entertained and educated them. However, some adults felt that the book was too simplistic and lacked the complexity needed to engage older audiences.

Some readers specifically mentioned that "The Arabian Nights" was not one of Wiggin's strongest works. They recommended exploring her other books, particularly "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm," which they felt better showcased her storytelling abilities.

Overall, the reviews for "The Arabian Nights" by Kate Douglas Wiggin indicate a range of opinions. While some readers appreciate its immersive storytelling and educational value, others find it lacking compared to the original tales and criticize its cultural representation. For those interested in Wiggin's work, it may be more worthwhile to explore her other highly regarded books.

ArabianNights ClassicLiterature Fairytales