Sesotho Folktales (ditšomo)
13 traditional Sesotho folktales retold in English, each with its lesson.
The Bird That Made Milk
Guard a precious gift carefully and heed warnings; disobedience and idle curiosity can destroy a family's fortune.
The Story of Tselane and the Cannibal
Beware of deceivers who disguise themselves as those you trust; listen carefully and do not be fooled by a sweetened voice.
Hlakanyana the Trickster
Cleverness can save you from danger, but unchecked greed and trickery eventually turn against the schemer.
The Hare and the Lion (or the Well in the Drought)
Those who refuse to share in the work should not share in the reward; cunning cannot forever hide a cheat.
The Girl Who Refused Suitors (Untombinde / Senkatana cycle of the tall maiden)
Do not judge by appearance or scorn honest suitors; pride and vanity can lead a person straight into danger.
The Boy Senkatana Who Slew the Monster
Courage and self-sacrifice can restore a ruined world, but the envy of those one saves is a danger as great as any monster.
The Cannibal Who Was Tricked into the Pit
Brute strength and greed can be defeated by patience and cleverness; the trap you dig for another may swallow you.
The Two Sisters and the Pool
Kindness, humility, and good manners are rewarded; selfishness, rudeness, and greed bring their own punishment.
Why the Hare Has a Split Lip (The Hare and the Moon's Message)
A careless messenger can turn a blessing into a curse; words must be carried faithfully, for they shape destiny.
The Wonderful Horns (Litšoana, the Boy and His Magic Ox)
Treasure and respect the source of your good fortune; greed and loose talk can break even the strongest magic.
The Jackal and the Hyena (Phokojoe le Phiri)
Greed makes a person easy to deceive; beware the smooth-talking friend who feasts at your expense.
The Child with the Star on His Forehead (Khosi, the Chosen Son)
Jealousy and deceit cannot bury the truth forever; what is rightful will be revealed and restored.
The Wise Old Woman and the Riddle (The Counsel of the Elder)
Honour the wisdom of the elderly; the knowledge of long years can save a people when youthful strength and pride fail.