A bit about African folktales... *adjusts googles* Ehen. First and foremost, a dictionary definition of folktales:
<em>“A folktale is tale or legend originating and traditional among a people or folk, especially one forming part of the oral tradition of the common people.”</em>

Most African folktales center around animals. Anasi, the spider, (Ashanti folklore, Ghana), and Ijapa the tortoise. (Yoruba folklore, Nigeria) are but a few of many. The tortoise in particular is a regular is a common character.

Often depicted as wise, this might be due to the fact that the tortoise has a wrinkled skin, and wrinkled skin in human beings is associated with age, which is associated in turn, with wisdom.
There are several stories about the tortoise. In some he happens to be a villain, in others he is something of a hero.

Also stories about the hippo, the owl, the vulture, a lot of animals, given colorful personalities all coming together to showcase a rich culture and deep belief system in morality, right and wrong. A few folktales are available on Laolu's blog under the following links.

IJAPA'S ADVENTURES: https://laolusblog./2015/03/06/ijapas-adventures/

TALES FROM MOTHER AFRICA- WHY HIPPOS DON'T EAT FISH: https://laolusblog./2015/03/24/tales-from-mother-africa-why-hippos-dont-eat-fish/

TALES FROM MOTHER AFRICA- THE GUIINEA-FOWL CHILD: https://laolusblog./2015/03/24/tales-from-mother-africa-the-guinea-fowl-child/

Work commences in full on the folktale section, come next week. Until then, keep visiting and keep reading.