Bright, folk-art illustrations and quirky characters make this book of Middle Eastern fables a perfect read-aloud. The collection of stories follows Mulla Nasruddin, a legendary character from the Islamic world, who finds humor and morality in his many adventures and misadventures. So while your child is still young enough to shout, “Read it again!”, add this one to your bookshelf. (Barefoot Books, $14.39)