In a bustling marketplace in Iran, a traditional storyteller regales her audience with the tale of Prince Zal and the Simorgh. High up on the Mountain of Gems lives the Simorgh, a wise phoenix whose flapping wings disperse the seeds of life across the world. When King Sam commands that his long-awaited newborn son Zal be abandoned because of his white hair, the Simorgh adopts the baby and raises him alongside her own chicks. She teaches him everything she knows. But when the king comes to regret his actions, Prince Zal will learn that the most important lesson of all is forgiveness.

A mythical tale of family, forgiveness and what it means to be truly wise, the book includes an original Iranian musical composition to stream online using the QR code in the book. Watch this video for detailed instructions on how to access the music – it’s quick and easy!

Find out more: Watch a short film about the book launch and education resources.