Photo of Ivy, author of The African Gourmet

About the Author

Ivy is the researcher and writer behind The African Gourmet, blending African food, history, and cultural storytelling. Her work is cited by universities, Wikipedia, major news outlets, and global food writers.

View citations →

Start Here: Explore Africa’s Living Knowledge

Learn Africa through science, stories, recipes, proverbs, history, and geography — interconnected, just as life is.

Living in the Dark African Folklore Story

Living in the Dark African Folklore Story

The African short story folktale living in darkness teaches us what great deeds small creatures can do.

Living in the Dark African Folklore Story.

As the elders say, a long time ago the sun did not shine, so it was always night.

In the forest, there stood a tree that far exceeded in height any other; and so it was that so long as this tree stood there could be no day.

Therefore, all the beasts of the forest conspired to pull it down. The elephant, confident in his strength, first tried; but tried in vain.

After him, the lion, leopard, and many other animals worked hard, but none could pull it down or root it up.

At last, when all the others had despaired, the hedgehog, came forward and told them that he was stronger than they all were, and would soon prove it by felling the tree.

Therefore, off he ran, but soon returned with a small but sharp ax, with which he cut away until the tree fell, and as it fell, the sun was seen for the first time.


Living in the Dark African Folklore Story
Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.


The African Gourmet Logo.

Korea & Africa: Top Reads

Africa × World: Editor’s Picks

Cross-continental food, science, history, and cultural exchanges.

African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions