Fairy Tales from South Africa by Mrs. E.J. Bourhill is a delightful collection of traditional African folktales that have been passed down through generations. The stories are rich with vibrant imagery and fascinating characters, providing readers with a glimpse into the unique culture and folklore of South Africa.

Each tale is beautifully written and transports the reader to a world filled with magic, adventure, and moral lessons. From trickster tales featuring clever animals to stories of brave warriors and mystical creatures, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting collection.

Mrs. E.J. Bourhill's storytelling is engaging and captivating, making it easy for readers of all ages to become immersed in the fantastical world of South African folklore. The illustrations that accompany each story further enhance the reading experience, bringing the characters and landscapes to life in vivid detail.

Overall, Fairy Tales from South Africa is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of African storytelling. It is a wonderful addition to any library and a valuable resource for those looking to learn more about the cultural traditions of South Africa.

Book Description:
The stories in this collection come from the oral traditions of the people from Swaziland, Matabeleland and Zululand in South Africa. The authors, Mrs. E. J. Bourhill and Mrs. J. B. Drake, or more properly the collectors and editors of the stories assert that: "All the stories in this book are real Fairy Tales, just as much as Jack the Giant-killer or The Sleeping Beauty. By this I mean that they are traditional, handed down by word of mouth. Nobody knows how old they are, or who told them first." The stories are full of witches and magicians and monsters, as well as heroes and princesses and good and bad rulers. They have done a marvellous job of putting these stories into English but admit that there is much lost in the translation and in not being able to see the storyteller who would not only tell the story but act it out while doing so. Mrs. Bourhill and Mrs. Drake were concerned that, as the way of life and the customs of the people were slowly changing, these wonderful traditional stories might fade away. They thus decided to write them down for posterity. - Summary by Noel Badrian