Jules Tellier's Les deux paradis d'Abd-Er-Rhaman is a brief but powerful story that feels like a beautifully illustrated myth. Written in the late 19th century, it has the timeless quality of a parable you might find in an ancient book of wisdom.

The Story

We follow Abd-Er-Rhaman, a man of faith living in Moorish Spain. He's presented with a magical, almost supernatural choice: he can experience two different versions of paradise. One is a life of incredible sensual pleasure, wealth, and beauty—a paradise of the senses. The other is a life of deep spiritual devotion, simplicity, and inner peace—a paradise of the soul. The narrative walks us through his experiences in these two contrasting worlds, leading to a final, poignant decision about which one holds real value.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was how personal this fantastical choice feels. Tellier doesn't preach; instead, he lets you walk in Abd-Er-Rhaman's shoes. You feel the allure of the luxurious life and the quiet pull of the spiritual one. It makes you wonder about your own priorities. Is happiness found in having everything you desire, or in wanting very little? The writing is lush and descriptive for the sensual paradise, and calm and measured for the spiritual one, which really pulls you into the experience.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect little book for anyone who enjoys thoughtful, philosophical fiction. If you like stories that explore big ideas about life, happiness, and purpose without being heavy-handed, you'll love this. It's also great for readers who appreciate historical settings with a touch of the mystical. At its heart, it's for anyone who has ever wondered if the grass is truly greener on the other side.