Written in the form of a boy's diary, this book lets you live with it's characters for a while. It describes life in the ancient Arab city of Damascus in a very beautiful and emotional way. The main message of this book is a call for Freedom of Speech, but it is not political. I read the book for the first time in German in the late 1980's and now during the war on Iraq (2003) I came back to it and it helped me a lot to make up my own mind about the conflict. This book is not only suited for teenagers, it is also quite exciting to read for adults!

A wonderfully complex world of characters & cultures! The exotic setting feels familiar as we explore modern Damascus with a spirited teenage boy. Political chaos & poverty push him into adult responsibilities, as we see him becoming a fine, brave young man.

It is one of THOSE books... I just can't get away from his style, parts of the book seem to be parts of his life, he writes with so much fantasy. Non violent fantasy not for kids, but young and old adults. You learn about the middle east and you won't get bored!

My husband and I read this book while touring Syria. It was the perfect accompanyment. It casts a humorous, gentle, but not uncritical eye on the culture of this region, and--though not a political novel--places its story against the background of the coups and counter-coups leading up to the Assad regime. Highly recommended!

Damascus nights is indeed written like a delightful story based on the ancient 1001 nights. There are however some dark under-currents and echoes of other important pieces of literature. Do you not hear the echoes of other horsemen, of the darkness of the Apocalypse in the distance? Like Gullivers Travels this book can be read on so many levels. Enjoy it!

I loved this book. It kept me engaged from start to end - it was so delightful. This is for all ages.

Good story line and delightful illustrations will make this book a popular storytime favorite. Shows how friendship grows and that problems can be solved by using your brains. Children would probably enjoy thinking up other adventures for Lila & Albert and their farmyard friends.