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Collections / Fables and Folklore

West African Folklore

9 stories, retold short enough for one lesson.

9 stories

How Ijapa the Tortoise Got His ShellHonestyGreed and trickery often lead to one's own downfall, and how we treat others eventually comes back to us.Grades 4–8Level 3

Oluronbi and the Magic Iroko TreeClevernessNever make a promise you are not prepared to keep, especially when the cost involves the lives and well-being of others.Grades 4–8Level 4

The Greedy SpiderGreedGreed can lead to self-destruction, and attempting to pursue two conflicting paths at once often results in losing both.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Hunter and the ElephantGreedGreed and the destruction of nature's giants lead to the collapse of the entire community's well-being.Grades 4–8Level 4

The Leopard's SpotsClevernessAdaptability and the ability to blend in are often more valuable than being noticed.Grades 4–8Level 4

The Magic DrumHard workGood fortune is often tied to responsibility, and carelessness can quickly turn a blessing into a curse.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Porcupine's QuillsHonestyTrue strength lies in the ability to defend oneself and the resilience to replace what is lost.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Tortoise and the BirdsHonestyGreed and trickery may bring temporary gain, but they ultimately lead to isolation and a great fall.Grades 4–8Level 4

Why the Sky is Far AwayGreedGreed and wastefulness lead to the loss of nature's abundance; we must respect and preserve what we are given.Grades 4–8Level 2