Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales

By Nelson Mandela

Book Overview

A cause for celebration, and a landmark work that gathers in one volume many of Africa's most cherished folktales. In these beloved stories we meet a Kenyan lion named Simba, a snake with seven heads, and tricksters from Zulu folklore; we hear the voices of the scheming hyena, and we learn from a Khoi fable how animals acquired their tails and horns. Creation myths tell us how the land, its animals, and its people all came into existence under a punishing sun or against the backdrop of a spectacularly beautiful mountain landscape. Whether warning children about the dangers of disobedience or demonstrating that the underdog can, and often does, win, these stories, through their depiction of wise animals as well as evil monsters, are universal in their portrayal of humanity, beasts, and the mystical. Translated from their original languages--Karanga, Nguni, Xhosa, and many others--these folktales are a testament to the craft of storytelling and the power of myth.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0393329909
• ISBN13: 9780393329902
• Release Date: October 2007
• Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 1.54 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 10.1" x 10.4"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7

Customer Reviews

This Grammy-nominated audiobook is truly amazing

This audiobook is nominated for a Grammy and has won awards. The story readings on this audiobook are phenomenal and your purchase supports children in South Africa in Africa orphaned by AIDS. The readings are done by numerous remarkable actors including Gillian Anderson, Benjamin Bratt, Don Cheadle, Matt Damon, Whoopi Goldberg, Sean Hayes, Samuel L. Jackson, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Debra Messing, Helen Mirren, Parminder Nagra, Sophie Okonedo, CCH Pounder, Alan Rickman, Jurnee Smollett, Charlize Theron, Blair Underwood, Forest Whitaker, and Alfre Woodard with a message from Desmond Tutu and music by Johnny Clegg and Vusi Mahlasela.

great buy!

I bought this book for my newborn and I recommend it for children of all ages. The stories are great tales to share with your family. They are even entertaining for adults. I highly recommend this book.

fabulous....

These stories are delightful, the illustrations are superb...I bought a copy for my grand-daughter, and was so enthralled that I ordered a second copy for me!

Simply Lovely

The stories are rich and full of life. Storytelling lives on...thank you!