In the case of "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves" - one of two tales retold and interpreted in this volume by noted Jungian psychotherapist Verena Kast - the "open sesame" formula occurs in situations of actual or emotional impoverishment, when we find ourselves in some way restricted. The opening reveals hidden treasures: the experience of opening up allows the great treasure within to be revealed.

The Myth of Sisyphus, the second story in this volume, also has a deeper meaning. The eternal repetition faced by Sisyphus, as well as by all of us in our daily lives - at times when change would be most welcome - is not unlike the situation of the patient in therapy. "Won't I ever get a grip on my problems?" What is most important is to see the repetition for what it is and to reflect on the subtle changes that occur through this difficult process.

In the best sense, Fairy Tales for the Psyche entertains and instructs, giving deeper meaning to well-known stories and, at the same time, to our lives.