Book details
Outa Karel's Stories South African Folk-Lore Tales
Description
Herein are 15 stories and tales from the Southern most tip of Africa narrated by Outa Karel (Old Charles). Sanni Metelerkamp commences the narration with a description of "The Place and the People" which is a story in itself and sets the tone and background to the whole book. A common theme throught is the Trickster Jackal, not too dissimilar to the role played by the Coyote in American Indian tales and Anansi, the Trickster Spider in West African tales. You will then find 14 more South African tales. Stories like "Why the Hyena is Lame" - a story of why, when first seen walking, the Hyena gives the impression that it is lame and the role the Jackal played in bringing this about. Also, "Why the Heron has a Crooked Neck" - a story how the crook in the Heron's neck came about and how the devious Jackal, once again, had a part to play. There are also the Hottentot (Bushman) tales of "The Sun" and "The Stars and the Stars' Road" which when first documented surprised the translators, as who would have thought the Bushmen would have tales of the origin of the stars and planets. Indeed in Bleek and Lloyd's work Specimens of Bushman Folklore they recount the tale of "The Girl Of The Early Race, Who Made Stars" and also a poem of "Sirius And Canopus"! Metelerkamp states in the foreword that "These tales are the common property of every country child in South Africa" - and so they are and have been since the region was first populated thousands of years ago. We invite you to sit back in a comfy chair of a cold, crisp evening, a steaming hot beverage in hand and enjoy this sliver of South African culture from an age long past and almost forgotten. 33% of the net profit from the sale of this book will be donated to the SENTABALE charity supporting children in Lesotho orphaned by AIDS.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
178 pages
Book in series
#2
Why to read
- The folk tales often contain moral lessons and values that are universal and timeless. Readers can learn from the experiences and wisdom encapsulated in these stories, which often teach about virtue, consequences, and human nature.
- Reading 'Outa Karel's Stories South African Folk-Lore Tales' provides insight into the rich tapestry of South African culture, traditions, and beliefs, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the country's heritage and the diverse backgrounds of its people.
- Sanni Metelerkamp's collection offers a chance to appreciate the art of storytelling and the beauty of folk literature. The book preserves the oral narrative tradition in written form, showcasing the unique storytelling techniques and linguistic expressions of South African folklore.
- Folk tales are designed to captivate and entertain. 'Outa Karel's Stories' provides an escape into a world of imagination, with tales of adventure, magic, and the supernatural that can delight readers of all ages and spark their creative thinking.