The King Without A Trade / Regele Fără Meştesug

A king, who wants for nothing, learns that a life of plenty doesn't make up for a lack of skills or common sense. Once he has learned his lesson, the king is careful to make sure that his daughter marries a man who can earn his own living. Rather than the usual happily-ever-after story of a prince and princess, this tale shows children that taking the time to learn is far better, in the long run, than being handed everything on a plate.

This story is one of many teaching stories collected and adapted by the Afghan philosopher Idries Shah, who told these to his own children to promote thinking skills and impart wisdom. These unique tales have their roots in Central Asia and the Middle East. They are published now and beautifully illustrated, so as to appeal to both children in the lands in which they originated and to children in the West, the aim being, to teach through humor and example, and to draw attention to our commonalities.

Although the origins of many of the author's stories can be traced back to ancient oral traditions, the insights and practical lessons contained in these narratives are timeless. Today, these stories are read in classrooms and homes and studied by thoughtful world leaders. They continue to pass knowledge from one generation to the next and to establish strong cultural foundations for peoples and communities around the world.