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Inspired by Arabic folk tales, this is a story about a young boy, Hasan, who decides to not only face his fears but also accept and welcome differences. In doing so he not only challenges his village's perception of an outsider but also of the outsider's sense of self worth.

Set within a peaceful village 'on the slopes of the Mountain of Mountains', Najjar and Manasra's tale begins with us finding out that the residents lead happy lives save for the fear of the Ghoul which lives atop the mountain. His menacing presence threatens the inhabitants as do the fearful stories about his actions and his taste for humans. Hasan though is an inquisitive young boy and, much to his parents' horror, decides that since much of what he hears about the Ghoul seems based on hearsay to take his chances and seek the monster out.

Much to his surprise he finds that both the villagers' fears and that of the Ghoul's are similar - whilst remaining deeply false. What ensues is a lovely close to this delightful picturebook. Translated from Arabic by Michel Mousabeck, this Jordanian import introduces important social themes about stereotypes and segregation with a traditional tale backdrop. I thoroughly enjoyed Manasra's soft illustrations.