Princess Kalabati and Other Stories

Princess Kalabati and Other Tales contains twelve tales from Bangladesh, including the well-known story of Princess Kalabati and the Monkey Princess as well as lesser known folk tales. Despite the fabulous nature of these tales in which animals talk and birds fly up to heaven, queens give birth to monkeys and owls, and half-chickens find pots of gold, these stories provide realistic details of life in rural Bangladesh. Some of these tales have roots in the Panchatantra, some have similarities with Assamese folk tales. Still others have motifs common to well-known fairy tales the world over. Attractively illustrated by Shamarukh Mohiuddin, these tales will delight the young while providing a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Bangladesh.