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Nigerian folktales

Nigerian folktalesImmerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian folktales, a rich collection that weaves together ancient wisdom, captivating characters, and timeless moral lessons. Each narrative, passed down through generations, offers a unique window into the diverse cultures and profound spiritual beliefs of this remarkable land. From the cunning Anansi the Spider to the noble heroes of Yoruba legends, these stories resonate with enduring themes of wit, courage, and community.

Explore a treasure trove of fantastical creatures, trickster spirits, and everyday folk whose experiences illuminate the human condition. These tales are not merely entertainment; they are potent vessels of cultural heritage, providing invaluable insights into societal values, ethical frameworks, and the very essence of Nigerian identity.

Our curated selection invites readers of all ages to embark on an unforgettable journey through the oral traditions of Nigeria, celebrating the power of storytelling to connect us across time and space. Discover the magic, the humor, and the enduring spirit that makes Nigerian folktales a globally cherished literary treasure. 🌟🌟🌟

Concerning the Fate of Essido and his Evil Companions

Concerning the Hawk and the Owl

Concerning the Leopard, the Squirrel, and the Tortoise

How a Hunter obtained Money from his Friends the Leopard, Goat, Bush Cat, and Cock, and how he got out of repaying them

How the Cannibals drove the People from Insofan Mountain to the Cross River (Ikom)

How the Tortoise overcame the Elephant and the Hippopotamus

Ituen and the King’s Wife

Of the Fat Woman who Melted Away

Of the Pretty Girl and the Seven Jealous Women

Of the Pretty Stranger who Killed the King

The ‘Nsasak Bird and the Odudu Bird

The Affair of the Hippopotamus and the Tortoise; or, Why the Hippopotamus lives in the Water

The Cock who caused a Fight between two Towns

The Disobedient Daughter who Married a Skull

The Election of the King Bird (the black-and-white Fishing Eagle)

The Elephant and the Tortoise; or, Why the Worms are Blind and Why the Elephant has Small Eyes

The Fish and the Leopard’s Wife; or, Why the Fish lives in the Water

The King and the ‘Nsiat Bird

The King and the Ju Ju Tree

The King who Married the Cock’s Daughter

The King’s Magic Drum

The Lucky Fisherman

The Orphan Boy and the Magic Stone

The Slave Girl who tried to Kill her Mistress

The Story of the Drummer and the Alligators

The Story of the Leopard, the Tortoise, and the Bush Rat

The Story of the Lightning and the Thunder

The Tortoise with a Pretty Daughter

The Woman with Two Skins

The Woman, the Ape, and the Child Nigerian Folktale

Why a Hawk kills Chickens

Why Dead People are Buried

Why the Bat flies by Night

Why the Bat is Ashamed to be seen in the Daytime

Why the Bush Cow and the Elephant are bad Friends

Why the Cat kills Rats

Why the Flies Bother the Cows

Why the Moon Waxes and Wanes

Why the Sun and the Moon live in the Sky

Why the Worms live Underneath the Ground

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Author’s Tales

  • H.C. Andersen
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Myths and Legends

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