African Myths of Origin

By: Stephen Belcher, Stephen Belcher - editor, Stephen Belcher - introduction

Narrated by: Ben Onwukwe

Brought to you by Penguin.

This Penguin Classic is performed by Ben Onwukwe. This definitive recording includes an introduction by Stephen Belcher.

Gathering a wide range of traditional African myths, this compelling new collection offers tales of heroes battling mighty serpents and monstrous birds, brutal family conflict and vengeance, and desperate migrations across vast and alien lands. From impassioned descriptions of animal-creators to dramatic stories of communities forced to flee monstrous crocodiles, all the narratives found here concern origins - whether of the universe, peoples or families. Together, they create a kaleidoscopic picture of the rich and varied oral traditions that have shaped the culture and society of successive generations of Africans for thousands of years, throughout the long struggle to survive and explore this massive and environmentally diverse continent.

© Stephen Belcher 2005 (P) Penguin Audio 2021

Wonderful stories we don't hear enough of!

This was a great series of stories from all over Africa. I appreciate the diversity of ethnic groups represented and the introduction to each people in the beginning of each section. This is one I'll be listening to more than once!

EXCELLENT!!!

This was a rare treat. I would love to see much more additions to audible of the African variety. This book was put together by a scholar of African history. I would love to see more African epics such as the "Oral History of Africa", "The Epic of Sunjata", Yoruba history such as those done Andrew Apter, Jacob Olupona, Toyin Falola, Wande Abimbola and others. I would love to see Kongo history as well. This book was magnificent!