How The Zebra Got His Stripes

Illustrated African Folktale for all ages.

African Folktales are common to most of the tribes and peoples of Africa. Different cultures, whilst sharing a common point of reference, will colour each story with their own rich, unique heritage. These tales by tradition were handed down by word of mouth through the ages, to be enjoyed by young and old alike.

Honouring tradition, I tried to keep the "voice" of the original storytellers of old, in the same manner in which they spoke, centuries ago. Contractions have been left out, since they were not the mode of speech in those bygone days.

In Africa, myths and tall tales abound, around the next mountain, through yonder valley, you will find a story that almost sounds the same as one you heard before. Thus, there are many versions of each tale. I believe my stories capture the essence of originality, having been adapted from traditional oral folktales.

Many folktales about Africa inspired countless expeditions in search of mysteries and treasures, from golden mountains, to lost tribes, to amazing animals. How did they get there? How were they made? Were they kind or fierce? Were they friendly or terrifying? Yes, some were gentle, some were vicious, but all had a story to tell. Who are they? What do they stand for, what nature do they have?

All beings possess traits of one kind or another, it is these that are discovered in folktales.

These stories have been built upon ancient traditions. As an African-born author, I owe a debt of gratitude to all our ancestors who passed down wonderful fables and tales, from which these stories are derived. It is to them, I dedicate my books.