The Runaway Princess and Other Stories: One Year Anniversary

Hello friends,

We are continuing our exploration of folklore in modern African literature and celebrating the one year anniversary of the publication of The Runaway Princess and Other Stories in this week’s episode.

We read an excerpt from the book focused on the titular character: Yennenga. Yennenga’s story is a fascinating glimpse at the contradictions and complexities of African womanhood. Yennenga was the only daughter of Na Gbewa (AKA Nedega) a 12th century king in northern Ghana. Her rise to military might in and subsequent escape from her father’s kingdom has fueled numerous stories, works of art and poems.

"The Golden Stallion of Yennenga" is the coveted grand prize of the Ouagadougou Pan-African Film and Television Festival (FESPACO).

In addition to the excerpt, read a praise song to Yennenga (also from “The Runaway Princess”) below.