In Hanan al-Shaykh's 'One Thousand and One Nights', the timeless tales of Scheherazade are reimagined through the lens of contemporary voices, weaving together a rich tapestry of love, betrayal, and resilience. Each night, Scheherazade's storytelling captivates her brutal husband, leading us through a labyrinth of enchanting stories and vibrant characters that defy cultural boundaries. As the narratives unfold, the reader is drawn into a world where magic intertwines with harsh realities, offering both escapism and profound insights. Al-Shaykh's prose is both poetic and urgent, breathing new life into ancient tales while exploring themes of gender, power, and identity. This modern retelling challenges us to consider the enduring power of storytelling in shaping our lives and histories.
By Hanan al-Shaykh
Published: 2014
"In the tapestry of tales, each thread whispers secrets of love, loss, and the timeless dance of desire."
Passed down over centuries from India, Persia, and across the Arab world, the mesmerizing stories of One Thousand and One Nights are related by the beautiful, young Shahrazad as she attempts to delay her execution. Retold in modern English by the acclaimed Lebanese author Hanan al-Shaykh, here are stories of the real and the supernatural, love and marriage, power and punishment, wealth and poverty, and the endless trials and uncertainties of fate. Bringing together nineteen classic tales, in these pages al-Shaykh weaves an utterly intoxicating collection, rich with humor, violence, and romance.
Hanan al-Shaykh is a prominent Lebanese author known for her powerful storytelling and exploration of gender, identity, and social issues in the Arab world. With a career spanning over four decades, al-Shaykh's notable works include 'The Story of Zahra', 'Women of Sand and Myrrh', and 'The Locust and the Bird'. Her writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose and incisive commentary, often weaving complex narratives that delve into the lives of women in contemporary society. Through her narratives, she challenges traditional norms and sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of her characters, making her a significant voice in modern Arabic literature.
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In "Captive Prince," the captivating tale of power and betrayal unfolds as Laurent, the cunning prince of Vereck, must navigate the treacherous politics of his enemy's court. When Damen, the exiled warrior prince of Akielos, becomes a slave to Laurent, forced into a world of subterfuge and intrigue, unexpected alliances begin to form. As the two grapple with their conflicting loyalties and simmering desires, they are drawn into a dangerous game that could alter the fate of their kingdoms. The tension escalates with each page, revealing secrets that could shatter their lives and reshape their loyalties. Will love conquer all, or will the weight of a fractured legacy seal their doom?
In "The Book of Three," young pig-keeper Taran embarks on a captivating quest to rescue his homeland, Prydain, from the encroaching darkness of an evil warlord. Accompanied by a motley crew of magical allies—including a fearless princess and a wise-cracking pig—Taran discovers his own potential beyond the confines of his humble beginnings. With each challenge, he grapples with themes of bravery, friendship, and destiny, weaving a tale that blurs the lines between heroism and cowardice. As the tension escalates and ancient prophecies unravel, will Taran rise to become the hero he dreams of, or will he falter under the weight of his own insecurities? Dive into this enchanting adventure and uncover the secrets that bind fate and courage in a world where darkness looms ever closer.
In "The Star-Touched Queen," Maya, a girl cursed with a deadly horoscope, finds herself trapped in a tumultuous fate. Drawn into a world of magic and intrigue, she becomes the bride of a mysterious ruler, only to uncover astonishing secrets about her past and the kingdom. Haunted by visions and the whispers of an ancient prophecy, Maya must navigate a web of love, betrayal, and destiny. As celestial events unfold, her choices could either save or doom her world. Will she embrace her true power and rewrite her stars, or will darkness consume her?
For use in schools and libraries only. Gen is plucked from the king's prison by the king's magus who wants his assistance in stealing an ancient treasure.
In "The Broken Empire Trilogy," we follow the dark and complex journey of Jorg Ancrath, a ruthless prince who seeks vengeance in a brutal, post-apocalyptic world. With a tormented past and a quest for power, Jorg navigates political treachery, supernatural forces, and his own inner demons. The vivid storytelling is laced with philosophical reflections on morality, ambition, and the nature of evil. As Jorg challenges the limits of ambition and redemption, readers will be drawn into a rich tapestry of betrayal and ambition. Will he emerge as a true ruler or remain a pawn of his own darkness?
The Skaa, having slaved in misery for a thousand years under the corrupt, absolute power of the Lord Ruler, still manage to find hope, which rises once again when a criminal mastermind teams up with an unlikely heroine.
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In "The 10X Rule," Grant Cardone unleashes a revolutionary philosophy that challenges you to aim ten times higher than your initial goals. He emphasizes that average thinking leads to mediocre results, while embracing massive action can propel you to extraordinary success. Through intense personal anecdotes and hard-hitting strategies, Cardone inspires readers to reject excuses and push boundaries in every aspect of their lives. Are you ready to break free from the status quo and achieve what you once deemed impossible? Dive in and discover how the 10X mindset can transform not just your goals, but your entire life.
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“In the tapestry of tales, each thread whispers secrets of love, loss, and the timeless dance of desire.”
One Thousand and One Nights
By Hanan al-Shaykh
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