Ali and the Magic Stew by Shulamith Levey illustrated by Winslow Pels*

Ali is a spoiled only son of a wealth merchant who despises the beggar who sits at their gate.  When his father returns from one of his trips very ill, Ali must go to the beggar for answers and is appalled by what he must do.  The day forever changes him.
Lavish illustrations display the wealth and beauty of the Persian culture. 
The author's word choice is superb.
I wished the author had included a recipe of the stew that heals his father.
My eight year old and I read this together (took turns) to support our study of Persia.
Strategies: character traits, character development, expanding vocab.
*Highly recommend.
-Borrowed from the inter-library loan (not available in my county).