Why the Tortoise Has a Cracked Shell

A clever tortoise. Seven generous birds. One magnificent feast above the clouds. What could possibly go wrong?

Rooted in the rich oral storytelling traditions of Africa, Why the Tortoise Has a Cracked Shell brings a beloved folktale to life with humour, heart and a wonderfully mischievous hero. Tortoise believes he is the cleverest animal in the forest, so when seven birds invite him to a feast in the sky, he devises a brilliant plan: borrow their feathers and fly along!

But when his cleverness gives way to greed, Tortoise's adventure takes a hilariously unexpected turn.

With colourful characters, playful dialogue, vivid illustrations and a lively rhythm made for reading aloud, this engaging story invites children and families to laugh, listen and join in. Young readers aged 4-8 will discover timeless lessons about kindness, honesty, gratitude and thinking before acting, while gaining an introduction to the wisdom and humour of African folklore.

Perfect for:
Children aged 4-8
Bedtime stories and family read-alouds
Classroom and library storytelling
Introducing children to African folklore and oral traditions
Exploring character, consequences and valuable life lessons

Part of the African Tales - Stories Our Ancestors Told collection, celebrating Africa's diverse storytelling heritage and the enduring wisdom passed from one generation to the next.