In this captivating interfaith and multicultural fable, eloquent representatives from across the animal kingdom—from horses to bees—gather before the esteemed Spirit King. They come to voice their grievances about the dreadful treatment they have endured at the hands of humankind. This sets the stage for a compelling trial where both humans and animals present their cases, ingeniously arguing their points and deftly illustrating the validity of both sides in the ecology debate.
The origins of this ancient tale are believed to trace back to India, with the first written version appearing in Arabic sometime before the 10th century in what is now Iraq. Over time, the story was translated into Hebrew in 14th century France, gaining popularity in European Jewish communities well into the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
This exquisite English translation is beautifully illustrated with 12 original color illumination plates. It serves as a valuable resource for introducing both young and old to important environmental and animal rights issues, making it a timeless piece that resonates with contemporary audiences.