African Fables, Book III
Edited by Ruth Keidel Clemens
Illustrated by Christopher Clemens
Imprint: Resource Publications
These African fables are part of the traditional folklore of African peoples in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Botswana, and Gabon. African culture is enriched by such lessons that provide universal wisdom and instruction for all of us no matter what our culture or background. Every story is illustrated with a cartoon and an accompanying African proverb or saying to enhance the lesson. These stories are written for an elementary school aged level but may be used for all ages.
Eudene Keidel and her husband, Levi, spent more than twenty years in the Democratic Republic of the Congo between 1951 and 1981. They worked with the Congo Mennonite Church under African Inter-Mennonite Mission in church planting, Bible teaching, and pastoral leadership development. Eudene helped to establish several medical clinics, training Congolese nurses in infant delivery, nutrition, and public health. She was a registered nurse.
“These vivid African allegories freshen the Western lexicon familiar with Aesop’s fables—adding new lore, twists, and turns—all illustrated by the animated cartoons of Eudene Keidel’s grandson. Language carries culture, and these stories immerse us in rich African perspectives to freshen our understanding of ancient wisdom.”
—Faith Eidse, author of Deeper Than African Soil
“This collection of African fables, along with accompanying African proverbs, provides a good illustration of the deep wisdom of the African people. Every story provides guidance on ways to support one another and honor relationships. The illustrations creatively enhance each lesson.”
—Ann Graber Hershberger, executive director, Mennonite Central Committee U.S.
“Eudene Keidel has captured the very essence of the community. Storytelling is that which holds the community together. It is the life of the community, the river through which wisdom flows to the next generations, and into the oceans that bind communities and nations together. The nuggets of wisdom embedded in these fables and proverbs are life truths that every community across the globe longs for, yet struggles to pass on to the next generation. In this book of African fables, Eudene Keidel expertly masters the art of storytelling.”
—Donald D. Vundhla, African administrative coordinator, Brethren in Christ US World Missions
“The stories that Eudene Keidel gathered are at once whimsical and profound, simple enough for young children, yet conveying lessons for all ages. Fables illuminate values and traditions of the peoples who tell them. This collection is in the tradition of western missionaries who sought out the wisdom of those among whom they worked and shared it with wider audiences. It is the fruit of Keidel’s fascination with, and respect for, the cultures of her African co-workers.”
—Bruce Yoder, co-executive coordinator, Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission
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