Customer Reviews

Kalila & Dimna: Selected Tales of Bidpal (Paladin Books)

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

These tales are indeed timeless, and more than that, of universal application. On a recent trip to the airport my cabbie referred to the wisdom in these stories while commenting on a current political event that was sweeping the news. I recommend this book for all those looking for a wondrous reading experience.

Well I was able to stop without finishing in a single sitting but only because I did not allow enough time today. The universal and timeless stories of friendship and betrayal speak to all of us.

There is an interesting twist right from the beginning...Alexander the Great's puppet and unjust tyrant in India was overturned and replaced by King Dabschelim (from the preface). But the King's predecessor was his own father (from the first story). Did Dabschelim overturn his own father? And by the way, King Dabschelim is no angel..would hate to live under his father!! More to follow.

Delightful, better than Aesop--but in the same vein. Very relaxing to read and so much fun. Not as magical as Narnia or Lord of the Rings. Stories are not too complex and have their messages all over the place. If you want symbolism and subtlety, this is one way to go. If you just want a fun bunch of stories, go here, too. Don't expect to learn much about Indian culture/ways of life here. One could put these stories into almost amy culture and the themes would come through.

Kalila and Dimna by Ramsay Wood is a delightful book. I had the pleasure of reading the book on a trip from Boston to San Francisco. Dr Bidpai, Kalila and Dimna and their friends made the trip enjoyable and seemingly fly by (pun intended). The anthropomorphic animals provide a great background for Houschenk's rules. My disappointment at the stories ending has been decreased by finding out that the continuation of the fables will soon be published. Well done.

Ever thought people at the office were animals? After reading this book you'll be able to name exactly which ones. The animals in these stories behave with perfect logic - for themselves - and surprising and touching outcomes. Even if you know the ancient tales, the retelling here is succinct and poignant with a rich vocabulary and just the right turn of phrase. Wolf, Rat, Mice, Turtle, Bedbug - all come to life in ways you will recognize - from your fellow humans. Bring the book and a blanket to the park and enjoy your afternoon among the critters.

This is a beautiful book with a message appropriate for any time and people of any age. It is wonderfully complex and yet basic. I found myself rereading sections frequently and getting a different take on the message each time. If you want to read something both evocative and uplifting, give this book a try. You will not be disappointed.

Great read! If you enjoy Aesops Fables or Sufisim, you will also enjoy Ramsay Woods - 'Kalila and Dimna'. The stories within stories of the animal kingdom keep you entertained until the last page.

This refreshed edition of Kalila and Dimna is "smashing." Ramsay breathes life into the stories with unexpected and often hilarious phrasing and great timing. The stories are obviously a labor of love for him and make a great impact-- they are carried in a way where the quips and temporal slips create a pace, moments, and mnemonics that only a great storyteller can facilitate. This collection is highly recommended and will form a great continuum of night time reading with the rumored release of more Dr. Bidpai in 2009.

This is an excellent book... Except it is missing pages 193-224. These are the pages where the conclusion to the Kalila and Dimna part would be. I have a paper due. You guys suck.

Really nice. Many stories for your kids