Once There Was, Twice There Wasn't

Fifty colorful tales celebrate the exploits of the wise Nasreddin Hodja as he rescues friends, humiliates enemies, and transforms folly into fortune with his quick wit and clever tongue. These authentic stories offer an entertaining and insightful window into Middle Eastern culture from one of region’s most beloved folk heroes.

Fifty colorful tales celebrate the exploits of the wise Nasreddin Hodja as he rescues friends, humiliates enemies, and transforms folly into fortune with his quick wit and clever tongue. These authentic stories offer an entertaining and insightful window into Middle Eastern culture from one of region’s most beloved folk heroes.

Michael Shelton grew up in Massachusetts, U.S.A. where his father’s bedtime stories of “The Great Wazumba” and “Bulgy Bear” sparked a lifetime love of storytelling. In 2001, Mike and his wife Joann took a surprising leap of faith and relocated to Turkey where they found wonderful neighbors, adopted six beautiful Turkish daughters, and uncovered a treasure trove of folktales waiting to be retold. Mike is a freelance writer, translator and occasional editor. This is his first folktale collection. When Mike isn’t collecting stories, he enjoys crafting his own, baking cookies, and surfing the oceans of emotions flowing through his household of seven amazing ladies.