Reviews

Mischief in Fez by Fritz Eichenberg, Eleanor Hoffmann

collinsd's review

adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

foggy_rosamund's review

5.0

This is a magical and enchanting story. Published in 1943, this story takes place in Fez. The author had travelled extensively in Morocco, and was familiar with life there. I'm no expert on Islam, but one thing about this book that really stands out for me is its extremely positive and sympathetic portrayal of Islam and Muslims, something so sadly lacking in media today. I love how enthusiastically Hoffmann describes life in Morocco, and her descriptions of mosques, market-places, households and myths that make up the lives of its citizens are all well-observed and fascinating. The story centres on Mousa, whose father had just remarried. Mousa begins to suspect that his stepmother and her pet gazelle are not all they seem, and seeks the help of the good djinns (a cross between demons and spirits) to protect him from their influence. His help arrives in the most adorable form -- a clever and passionate fennec fox, who helps him in his quest to overcome bad djinns.

This book also contains some of the best descriptive writing about food I've ever read. It's a glorious story full of sumptuous details and delightful happenings, with gorgeous illustrations. It's a real shame it's not more widely read.

melissacushman's review

5.0

One of my favorite stories as a kid, I had fun sharing it with my daughter. A little bit like Arabian Nights, but more for children.

lenabrary's review

4.0

This book takes you on a fantastic adventure in Morocco, full of djinns and mischief. It's incredibly fun and so positive towards Islam - it's a delight to read.