Rating: ***** 5 stars

Retold by Enebor Attard, illustrated by Richard Holland,
Hindi translation byAwadesh Misra.
Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.
Mantra, 2005.

This is the story that has given the world the famous magic phrase 'Open Sesame'.  It is a well-known classic tale from Ancient Arabia, popular throughout the world which has been translated into many languages.  This picture book version is in Hind/English and both the languages have used a simple, brief and traditional style of narrating the story which excites curiosity and the desire to know what happens next.

It is the story of an ordinary and naive man called Ali Baba who accidentally experiences a strange phenomenon that changes his life but only through the quick-wit and intelligence of the young maidservant Morgianna who manages to kill 40 thieves and their leader Ka-eed.

The lively illustrations and the positioning of the text in two languages are very impressive.  In addition the expressions on the faces of the characters help create the atmosphere and the spirit of the story which is sure to capture the interest of young readers. (Available in 28 dual language editions.)

October 2005, No. 154

Guide to the rating system:
***** 5 stars, unmissable
**** 4 stars, very good
*** 3 stars, good
** 2 stars, fair
* 1 star, poor