Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales
Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (1,588)
What’s inside...
Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales is a collection of stories that have been passed down through generations of African cultures. These stories have been carefully selected and retold by Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa and a Nobel Peace Prize winner. The book includes 32 stories that are filled with wisdom, humor, and adventure, and are sure to captivate readers of all ages. The stories are accompanied by beautiful illustrations that bring the characters and their stories to life. This book is a celebration of African culture and heritage, and is a must-read for anyone interested in the rich history and traditions of this fascinating continent.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters in the story felt during their adventures?
What would you have done if you were in the same situation as the main character?
Which tale was your favorite, and why did it stand out to you?
What lessons can we learn from the stories in this book?
How do you think these stories reflect the culture and values of Africa?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your favorite folktale from the book and why it resonates with you. This personal touch can encourage your child to express their thoughts and preferences.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings to their favorite tales. This stimulates creativity and critical thinking.
Discuss the morals and lessons from the stories. Ask your child how these lessons can apply to their own life.
Use the stories as a gateway to explore more about African history and culture, enhancing the educational value of your reading time.
Praise your child's insights and observations during the discussion, which can help boost their confidence and engagement with the material.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity and cultural awareness
Explanation: The collection showcases a variety of African folktales from different cultures, each with unique characters and settings
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences and apply this understanding in their diverse social interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of kindness and compassion
Explanation: Many stories within the book highlight characters who perform acts of kindness, often resulting in positive outcomes
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to emulate these behaviors in real life, fostering a caring and supportive environment around them.
Example Lesson: Resilience and problem-solving
Explanation: Characters in the tales often face challenges or dilemmas that require clever thinking and perseverance to overcome
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own obstacles with determination and creativity.
Example Lesson: The value of honesty
Explanation: Several tales emphasize the virtues of being truthful and the consequences of deceit
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of honesty in building trust and integrity in relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding different perspectives
Explanation: Through the folktales, readers experience a wide range of emotions and situations from different viewpoints
Real-World Application: This can enhance a child’s ability to empathize and better understand people's feelings and actions in their everyday interactions.