Aladdin: And Other Tales from the Arabian Nights

I just wanted to advise of a correction relating to the "Editorial Review" for this book. It refers to the series "D.K. READERS" (formerly "EYEWITNESS READERS") rather than the series "D.K. CLASSICS" (formerly "EYEWITNESS CLASSICS"). The two series share some of the same titles, but the text of the D.K. CLASSICS is closer to that of the origninal works upon which they are based. There are also sidebars on most pages that describe the historical setting for the book and sometimes provide a comparison of the same setting as it is today. The D.K. CLASSICS series are great for doing book reports or for making history come alive through great literature.

My daughter and I have been reading (and re-reading!) the DK Classics (of which "Aladdin" is part of) for several years, since she was 5. These books are very colorful, with lots of illustrations and photos of genuine artifacts, maps, and people from the era in which the story is set. Side panel text gives background information about the author, pictures and story. These "additions" (which do not detract from, but only enhance the story) help the young reader (and the adult too!) put the story into context. It is like getting both a classic and a pictorial history book rolled into one! The text is easy to read. My daughter is now 9, and reading the books on her own. Not only has she developed an appreciation for classic literature, but for history as well. These are great books for parents to read with their children. I highly recommend them!

As this book will reveal to many children, Disney didn't invent Aladdin - he is one of the characters found in the 1000-year-old tales of Arabian Nights. Read about an Aladdin that is closer to the original, and also about Alibaba and the Forty Thieves, and The Enchanted Garden, two other stories from The Arabian Nights. There is some violence here - but, hey, it's classic literature and it keeps the kids' attention. There are two interesting heroic women in the stories. This gorgeously illustrated book is printed on good-quality glossy paper, a rare find at this price. The main text is complemented with historic notes and photographs adding background to the story, and there is a glossary at the end. Overall, it's a first-class book that adults will enjoy along with kids.