Author: Boris Artsybashev
Illustrator: Boris Artsybashev
Year: 1931
Publisher: Macmillan Company
Shaydullah is a beggar who wants to know why his prayers go unanswered. One day, he sets off on a journey, visiting different people and asking for guidance. Each encounter gives him an answer, but it’s never quite what he expects — and Shaydullah struggles to put it into practice. Along the way, funny and odd situations pop up, showing that life doesn’t always make sense, even when you’re trying your hardest.
Boris Artzybasheff’s illustrations bring the story to life. Black-and-white and full of character, they capture the quirks of Shaydullah and the people he meets. Each drawing is lively and clever, with a mix of humor and subtle surprise.
In Poor Shaydullah, the story and the images play together, creating a gentle, amusing tale about patience, curiosity, and the small ironies of life.














