Very detailed illustrations with dark, deep colors are featured in this story that's been retold in a picture book version. It's a very interesting story about a man who sees death reaching for him and so he attempts to run away. It's a very interesting story that can lead to great discussions about if you can avoid destiny. This is for older readers. ( )

A beautifully illustrated book exploring a man, an encounter with his destiny, and an attempt to change that destiny. This book took me by surprise completely, and I think it would be an excellent book to use while introducing irony! The story exemplifies situational irony since we expect the old man to be safe when we leaves Baghdad, and readers also experience dramatic irony when Death claims she will meet him in Samarra. ( )