Pari Mansouri‘s collection, “No I Was Not Dreaming” of six short stories, written mainly for children and young adults, invites readers into a world woven with memory, imagination, and quiet reflection.
From the symbolic flight of The Winged White Horse to the heartfelt yearning of O’ Scents of Childhood, Shelter Me, each story offers a unique glimpse into the emotional and poetic landscape of its author. Rich in imagery and depth, these narratives gently unfold, encouraging us to pause, remember, and reconnect with the deeper currents of human experience.
Pari’s writing is both lyrical and evocative, adapting to the tone of each story with ease. She uses humour and fantasy to convey important messages about compassion, kindness, and the magic of childhood dreams.
Read the short stories (in Persian)
Six short stories (in Persian) from Pari Mansouri‘s “No, I Was Not Dreaming” that blend imagination, cultural reflection, and life lessons for children and young adults.
Selected short stories in English translation
Pari Mansouri‘s “No, I Was Not Dreaming” is a collection of six short stories, two of which are translated into English and shared below.
- Seven Gifts
- The Winged White Horse
- Elephant in the pond
- No, I Was Not Dreaming
- O’ Scent of Childhood, Give me Shelter
- A Second Look
Click on the headings to read the stories
The Winged White Horse
SYNOPSIS:
“The Winged White Horse” by Pari Mansouri, is a short story for children from the book “No, I Was Not Dreaming”. This is a beautifully crafted tale that enchants readers with its rich themes and heartwarming message.
The story revolves around the pure and innocent desires of a little girl named Joy, who, true to her name, embodies happiness and love. Mansouri masterfully uses this story to explore the power of imagination, the beauty of kindness, and the enduring connection between childhood dreams and adult wisdom.
The central theme of a child’s belief in the magical “Winged White Horse” symbolizes the importance of holding onto wonder and compassion as we grow older. The message that even as we mature and gain wisdom, the essence of our childhood dreams can remain with us if we choose to keep them alive in our hearts, is both profound and touching. Mansouri’s writing style is lyrical and filled with vivid imagery, making the story come alive for readers of all ages. Her ability to blend a gentle, comforting tone with moments of deeper reflection ensures that this story resonates not just as a delightful fantasy, but as a meaningful narrative about the importance of love, joy, and enduring hope.
No, I Was Not Dreaming
SYNOPSIS:
Pari Mansouri’s short story “No, I Was Not Dreaming” from her book, No, I Was Not Dreaming, masterfully combines humour with a profound theme, making it a captivating read for both children and young adults. The story’s whimsical premise—being summoned by Santa Claus in the middle of the night for a consultation—immediately engages the reader with its playful absurdity.
Mansouri’s use of humour not only entertains, but also serves to subtly explore deeper themes, such as the cultural differences that can lead to misunderstandings and the universal need for hope and dreams in difficult times. The protagonist’s bewildered and slightly sarcastic reactions to the situation add a delightful layer of wit, while also highlighting the absurdities of life in exile and the struggles of adapting to a new culture. Her nostalgia and sadness for her homeland are palpable, adding depth to the story as she grapples with the loneliness of being away from her roots.
Through this humorous yet meaningful narrative, Mansouri encourages young readers to think critically about the world around them while reminding them of the importance of compassion and the preservation of hope, even in the most challenging circumstances.