Samuel DenHartog's Blog: The Road to 1,440 - Posts Tagged "africa"

Hello, my fellow lovers of lore!

I'm thrilled to announce the launch of my latest literary adventure, "Tales from the African Continent," a book that invites you to embark on a journey through the heart of Africa's most enchanting myths and legends. From the shifting dunes of the Sahara to the vibrant jungles and majestic mountains, these stories are as varied and vast as the continent itself.

Dive into the world where the trickster spider Anansi weaves tales as complex as his webs, and the fearsome Grootslang guards the treasures of the earth. Sail with the alluring Mami Wata, who whispers the secrets of the waters, and march alongside Queen Amina of Zazzau, a warrior of unmatched valor. Each story pulsates with the rhythm of the African spirit, offering a tapestry of tales that have been echoed through time.

Strap on your most comfortable walking boots and prepare for an expedition into the mystical, where every beat of the drum tells a story waiting to be told.

See you on the African savannas,
Samuel DenHartog

I am delighted to announce the release of my latest book, "Fables from Nigeria," the first installment in an exciting new series celebrating the rich tapestry of global folklore. This collection brings to life the enchanting stories of Nigeria, weaving together timeless tales that have been cherished for generations. Each story is a gateway into a world of wisdom, humor, and profound cultural insights, offering readers a captivating journey through the vibrant landscape of Nigerian folklore.

"Fables from Nigeria" features various characters and adventures, from cunning tricksters and brave heroes to mystical creatures and wise villagers. These tales, including favorites like "Tortoise's Beautiful Daughter" and "The Sun and the Moon," reflect the values and beliefs that have shaped Nigerian society. The collection is designed to resonate with readers of all ages, providing both entertainment and a deep connection to the universal human experience.

This book marks the beginning of my "Fable Anthologies" series that will explore the folklore from various cultures and sources around the world, each volume offering a unique glimpse into the storytelling traditions that define us. I invite you to dive into "Fables from Nigeria" and discover the magic and wisdom of these enduring tales. Join me on this literary journey as we celebrate the timeless art of storytelling and the rich cultural heritage it preserves.

So we begin,
Samuel DenHartog

I’m elated to share my latest work, “Fables from South Africa,” a rich collection that breathes new life into the vibrant world of South African folklore. These tales, passed down through countless generations, have been lovingly retold in modern language while staying true to the wisdom and spirit of the originals. In this collection, you'll journey through stories that not only entertain but also offer profound lessons on resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of intelligence.

Among the stories, you'll meet the clever Jackal, who consistently outsmarts larger, more powerful animals like the Lion, proving that wit can indeed conquer brute strength. The Hare, known for his quick thinking, repeatedly evades danger, tricking those who underestimate him. And in a tale of remarkable courage, a young boy with an iron side sets out on a perilous journey to rescue his long-lost sister from a village of cannibals, showcasing the strength of familial bonds and the power of determination.

This collection also explores the darker, more mysterious side of folklore. From the terrifying cannibals who stalk the plains, to birds that carry away children across great rivers, these stories reveal a world where danger and adventure are never far away. You’ll discover tales that explain the origins of natural phenomena and delve into the complex relationships between humans and the animal kingdom. For example, the tale of the Lion who could once fly offers a fascinating look at the consequences of pride, while the story of the Crocodile’s treason reveals the dangers of misplaced trust.

Each story is a testament to the rich oral traditions that have shaped South African culture, and I’m honored to present these timeless fables to a new generation of readers.

When I first began shaping this story, I knew it wouldn’t be about crowns or cleverness alone. It would be about what someone gives up without knowing what they will get in return, and how real love rarely arrives with trumpets. I set it in a world brushed with the wonder of old stories, vanishing cities, rose-lit towers, sea-bound palaces, but gave it a heart that beats through silence and sacrifice. There are echoes of "One Thousand and One Nights" here, but this tale travels its own path.

At its center stands Princess Nouronnihar, raised in silk and ceremony within the Jasmine Court, yet quietly restless beneath it all. When three foreign princes come from distant lands, Persia, Arabia, and the Maghreb, the Sultan refuses to choose among them by lineage or wealth. Instead, he sends them outward, each to find something truly rare. Their quests stretch across kingdoms and beliefs, each prince tested not just by what he finds, but by who he becomes in the finding.

The magic in this story is unmistakable: a carpet that can fly, a telescope that peers across continents, an apple whose breath can heal. But those are not what linger. What matters more is the way each gift reflects its bearer, and the moment when these rivals must act together, not to win, but to save. When a vengeful genie steals the princess away, everything shifts. The rescue depends not on power, but on trust and loss and timing that cannot be undone.

At its heart, this book is about love with choice at its core. Not a contest to be won, but a gift to be offered. I hope readers will find wonder in the journey and perhaps see a little of themselves in the characters who travel so far, not just to earn love, but to understand it. That is the soul of "Three Princes, One Heart."