The Arabian Nights

by Anonymous
The Arabian Nights cover
Good Books rating 4.19
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  • ID: 5659
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-12-18
  • ISBN: 9780307417015
  • Publisher: Modern Library
  • Published: 2009-08-26
  • Reviews: 4

The Arabian Nights is a legendary collection of stories that have captivated audiences for centuries. These tales were told by the clever Shahrazad to her husband, the king, to delay her execution and ultimately save her life. Each night, she began a new enchanting story but withheld the ending, leaving the king eager for more. This volume reproduces the 1932 Modern Library edition, carefully curated by Bennett A. Cerf, and includes Sir Richard F. Burton's acclaimed translation and extensive notes. The stories, such as 'Alaeddin; or, the Wonderful Lamp,' 'Sinbad the Seaman and Sinbad the Landsman,' and 'Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,' have become iconic, demonstrating the enduring magic of Shahrazad's spell. /n/n The Arabian Nights is not just a collection of tales but a cultural treasure that has influenced literature and storytelling worldwide. The stories are rich with adventure, fantasy, and moral lessons, making them timeless classics. This edition is particularly valuable for its historical context and the detailed notes provided by Burton, which enhance the understanding and appreciation of these ancient narratives. Whether you are a longtime fan or a new reader, this collection offers a captivating journey into a world of wonder and imagination.

Reviews
Hacker News · 2025-12-18
standout 4.50

This modern translation by Husain Haddawy is a must-read. The preface provides valuable context and insight into the stories.

The modern translation of the Arabian Nights by Husain Haddawy is a standout. The preface to this translation offers valuable context and insight into the stories, making it a must-read for anyone interested in this classic collection. The stories themselves are engaging and thought-provoking, offering a rich cultural experience. The translation is particularly noteworthy, as it brings the tales to life in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for modern readers. The preface is a valuable addition, providing a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context of the stories.

Quick quotes

    There's a really nice modern translation of the Arabian nights by Husain Haddawy, that is worth your time.

    The preface to that translation goes into a lot of detail about the cultural and historical context.

    The stories themselves are engaging and thought-provoking, offering a rich cultural experience.

app.thestorygraph.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
brilliant 4.50

The Arabian Nights is a collection of stories that have captivated readers for centuries. The tales are rich in imagination and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the past and the diverse perspectives of the time.

The Arabian Nights is a treasure trove of stories that have stood the test of time. Each tale is a window into a different world, filled with magic, adventure, and deep cultural insights. The collection is not just entertaining but also educational, providing a rich tapestry of historical and cultural context. The stories are interconnected, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. They offer a unique perspective on the societies and beliefs of the past, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in history and culture. The collection is a testament to the power of storytelling, showcasing how stories can transcend time and continue to resonate with readers today.

Quick quotes

    The Arabian Nights is a collection of stories that have captivated readers for centuries.

    The tales are rich in imagination and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the past and the diverse perspectives of the time.

    Each tale is a window into a different world, filled with magic, adventure, and deep cultural insights.

goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
enthralling 3.75

The Arabian Nights is a collection of timeless stories that have captivated readers for centuries. While some found the longer tales challenging to follow, others were enthralled by the diverse and loveable characters, and the intricate storytelling of Scheherazade.

The Arabian Nights offers a rich tapestry of stories that have endured through the ages. Many readers appreciate the collection's adventurous and lighthearted tales, which often feature complex characters and magical elements. Some found the longer stories a bit challenging to follow, but overall, the book is praised for its engaging narratives and the skillful storytelling of Scheherazade. The diverse cast of characters adds depth and interest, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy classic literature.

Quick quotes

    Simplemente me encanta este libro. Amo como estas historias han perdurado siglos, las personas aún sigue leyendo esto y siguen cayendo por la magia de Scheherezade a la hora de contar historias.

    2.5 stars. Ye olde story collection. I really enjoyed roughly the first third, with lots of one-upmanship, people morphing into animals, sorcerers and demons.

    I'd read children's versions of the biggies from The Arabian Nights (Sinbad, Ali Baba, Aladdin), but I'd never dipped into the full collection before. These tales are sometimes long and complex, sometimes short and simple, but always enthralling.

Goodreads · 2025-01-01
wonderful 4.00

The Arabian Nights is a timeless collection of stories that captivate readers with their magic and wonder. The tales are diverse, ranging from adventures to erotica, and offer a rich cultural tapestry.

The Arabian Nights is a treasure trove of stories that have enchanted readers for generations. The collection is known for its vivid imagery and imaginative narratives, which transport readers to a world of magic and mystery. The tales are not only entertaining but also provide a deep insight into the cultures and traditions of the regions from which they originate. The diversity of the stories ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you are in the mood for a thrilling adventure, a romantic tale, or a thought-provoking fable. The enduring appeal of The Arabian Nights lies in its ability to captivate the imagination and offer a glimpse into a world that is both familiar and exotic.

Quick quotes

    A timeless collection of stories that captivate readers with their magic and wonder.

    The tales are diverse, ranging from adventures to erotica, and offer a rich cultural tapestry.

    The enduring appeal of The Arabian Nights lies in its ability to captivate the imagination.

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