The Three Princes of Serendip: New Tellings of Old Tales for Everyone by Rodaan Al Galidi (review)

This gorgeous collection of twenty Middle Eastern folktales, retold by Iraqi-born author Al Galidi and originally published in the Netherlands, spans human and animal fables, comical episodes, meditations on spirituality, and more. In the titular tale, three prankster princes track down a wayward camel; other stories deal with wisdom and folly, such as “The Man Who Was Thirsty,” or friendship and the limits of self-sacrifice (“The Partridge and the Turtles”). The tales are short and pithy, often humorous, and occasionally poignant. Watkinson’s translation from Dutch sits lightly on the page, while intricate cut-paper decorations in sumptuous hues make nearly every spread a visual feast. This would be excellent for reading aloud as well as private reading, and the volume will prompt discussion about different versions of folktales and the role of immigration in spreading and altering stories. Indeed, a “Note from the Gatherer of Tales” encourages readers to “let these stories become your own.” Many readers and listeners will do just that. Unfortunately, no source notes are included.