10 African Stories Every Black Parent Should Share with Their Children

A lot of African stories that honour her history, and wisdom can be found across the diverse cultural heritage of the African people. These African stories are transmitted through the ages and they impact insightful teachings that speak to people of African heritage everywhere. Here are ten African stories that every Black parent should share with their kids to help them become rooted in their heritage and build a sense of pride in our culture.

1. “Adventures of Anansi & Sewa: The Missing Black Panther”

Written by Bunmi Oyinsan. When Anansi can’t find his favorite toy, the Black Panther, he sets out to look for it. But to his surprise, he discovers that Sewa, his sister has taken it and dressed it up in a tutu! Will Anansi get past his anger and ever forgive her? Join Anansi and Sewa as they learn about sharing, and what it means to be kind to one another.

2. “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters”
Set in Zimbabwe, “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” tells the story of two sisters, one kind and gentle, the other selfish and deceitful, as they compete for the hand of the king. This enchanting tale celebrates virtues such as kindness, humility, and inner beauty, while also highlighting the importance of integrity and honesty.

3. “The Fabulous Four”
The Fabulous Four is a children’s adventure novel featuring a group of young teenagers, Tunji and Ekaete who are Nigerians, Tamara and Adrian who are Liberians and Nelson the dog. The story starts off in Lagos, Nigeria from where the children were kidnaped and taken across the border to the Republic of Benin by a gang of kidnappers who specialize in selling children off to work across West African countries. How do these fabulous young girls and boys outwit the criminals who try to sell them off to buyers in Gabon? Find out in this beautifully written story.

READ ALSO: Creative Ways to Teach Kids About African Female Warriors and Queens

4. “The Lion’s Whisker”
This Ethiopian folktale tells the story of a young man named Issa who embarks on a quest to find a cure for his wife’s unhappiness. Through encounters with wise animals and supernatural beings, Issa learns the value of patience, empathy, and understanding in relationships.

5. “The Story of Sundiata”
Based on the epic of Sundiata Keita, the founder of the Mali Empire, this is one of the African stories that celebrates courage, perseverance, and the triumph of good over evil. Sundiata’s journey from exiled prince to legendary warrior-king inspires children to embrace their strengths, overcome adversity, and fulfill their destinies.

6. “Mansa Musa”

Mansa Musa was a young man from Africa’s Mali Empire who rose to become one of the most powerful kings in history and the richest man to have ever lived. Discover his incredible story and uncover the secrets of his rise to power and immense wealth in this epic tale about how he led his kingdom to greatness. For black children, Mansa Musa’s tale offers a source of inspiration and empowerment. It teaches them to embrace their heritage with pride and to recognize the richness of their cultural legacy.

7. “The Name of the Tree”
Set in Senegal, “The Name of the Tree” is a poignant tale about a young boy named Soumaoro who embarks on a quest to discover the name of a mysterious tree that holds the key to his village’s prosperity. Along the way, he learns about the power of community, the value of tradition, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

8. “Adventures of Amansi & Sewa: Rainy Day”

On a rainy April day, Anansi and Sewa are bored and looking for excitement. They go from room to room trying to find something to do, but nothing seems like fun. Just as they think the rain has stopped, it starts pouring again. They run outside and have fun splashing in the puddles. Join Anansi and Sewa as they have the best rainy day ever.

GET COPIES OF SOME OF THE STORIES HERE: African Story Books for Kids

9. “The Talking Skull”
From the Yoruba tradition of Nigeria comes “The Talking Skull,” a tale about a brave hunter named Ajapa who outwits a cunning witch with the help of a magical talking skull. Through cunning and resourcefulness, children learn about courage, quick thinking, and the importance of using one’s wits to overcome challenges.

10. “Phillis Wheatley”

This is one of the profound African stories. Phillis Wheatley was born in West Africa into a family of traditional poets, musicians, and storytellers. She was captured and ended up in Boston where she was sold into slavery. How did she end up being the first African American woman to ever have a book of poetry published? Find out in this beautifully illustrated story.

SEE ALSO: Three Women by Bunmi Oyinsan

Black parents can help their kids feel strong and proud by sharing these 10 African stories with them. Through these African stories, kids find wisdom and see the world in a new way. They also connect to their roots and become more aware of their identity. So parents, gather your kids for these special African stories. Let these African stories teach your kids their cultural heritage.