Master storyteller, Olivia Coolidge opens up the world of Palestine around the time of Christ through these engaging stories. There is the story of a young spoiled Jew from Alexandria who has come to claim his bride only to be caught in the game of Emperors; the blind beggar who gains his sight, but loses his means of making a living; the wise rabbi who tricks the villagers into honesty. The stories are varied--some sad, some ironic, some tragic, some touching--yet all revealing the life of the time. Ancient Palestine comes to life! Grades 7-11.