#Essential Books | The Parrot and the Merchant, an ancient fable retold

Editor | Children’s Fiction

Parrot and the Merchant is an ancient fable by Rumi, retold for the modern reader with exquisitely patterned illustrations by acclaimed Iranian artist Marjan Vafaian. A touching exploration of love and freedom.

Mah Jahan, a rich merchant woman, collects birds in cages. But when she brings back a gift for one of them, she learns a surprising lesson. This exquisitely illustrated story is an enchanting fable exploring how hard it is to let go of someone you love and give them freedom. Retold for modern-day readers, this classic tale by Rumi is brought to life by the award-winning illustrator Marjan Vafaian.

About the author

Rumi was a thirteenth-century Persian philosopher.

Marjan Vafaian (Author)

Marjan Vafaian has been creating elaborate and detailed book illustrations for ten years. Very well-received at home in Iran, her work has also won awards at international exhibitions. She has brought a modern twist to this ancient fable, casting a woman as the merchant. She has also illustrated Bijan and Manije (2016) and Cinderella of the Nile (2018) by the award-winning author Beverley Naidoo, published by Tiny Owl.