Talal and the Forgotten Bench
A fictional Saudi Doll story to read together or enjoy at your own pace.
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Chapter 1 of 3
Talal showed everyone his map of the garden in Taif. The trees and roses were in place, but Joud asked about the bench near the gate. Looking at his drawing, he realised he had been so interested in the plants that he had forgotten the resting place.
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Full story transcript
Talal showed everyone his map of the garden in Taif. The trees and roses were in place, but Joud asked about the bench near the gate. Looking at his drawing, he realised he had been so interested in the plants that he had forgotten the resting place.
On their next visit, he stood with his father by the gate and noticed the route to the bench. There was no need to step into the rose beds or pick anything. He drew a small mark for the seat and a clear line leading from the entrance.
When Talal added the mark, the garden became easier to imagine. Joud said she now knew where she would sit to draw. Talal kept both versions as a reminder that a map tells a story about the people who use a place, too.