Book Review: Why The Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale
Why The Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale – A Timeless Story of Greed and Wisdom
Introduction: A Folktale That Speaks to the Soul
Have you ever looked up at the sky and wondered why it seems so distant? Why The Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale by Mary-Joan Gerson offers a mesmerizing answer—one steeped in tradition, morality, and the consequences of human actions. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is more than just a story; it’s a cultural treasure that teaches timeless lessons about greed, gratitude, and respect for nature.
As someone who adores folklore from around the world, I was instantly drawn to this book. Gerson’s retelling of this Nigerian folktale is both enchanting and thought-provoking, making it a perfect read for children and adults alike. If you’re looking for a book that sparks imagination while imparting wisdom, this is one you won’t want to miss.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Plot Summary: A World Where the Sky Was Once Within Reach
The story begins in a time when the sky was so close to the Earth that people could simply reach up and take a piece of it to eat. The sky was generous, providing nourishment without the need for farming or hunting. Life was easy, and the people lived in harmony with nature—until their greed changed everything.
When the villagers begin taking more than they need, wasting the sky’s gifts without gratitude, the sky grows angry. A pivotal moment occurs when a woman, despite warnings, takes far more than she can consume. Her actions lead to a dramatic consequence: the sky, offended by human wastefulness, retreats far above, never to be touched again. From that day forward, people must work the land for their food, learning the hard way about responsibility and balance.
This simple yet profound narrative carries echoes of other cautionary tales about human excess, but its cultural specificity makes it uniquely powerful.
Character Analysis: Lessons in Human Nature
Though the characters in this folktale are archetypal rather than deeply individualized, they serve as powerful symbols:
- The Sky – A living, sentient force that embodies generosity and patience—until pushed too far. It’s a fascinating personification of nature itself, reacting to human behavior with divine justice.
- The Villagers – Initially respectful, they gradually become careless, representing humanity’s tendency toward greed when resources seem limitless.
- The Wasteful Woman – Though unnamed, her role is crucial. She isn’t evil, just thoughtless—a reminder that harm often comes from negligence rather than malice.
The lack of complex backstories doesn’t weaken the tale; instead, it sharpens its moral clarity, making it accessible to young readers while still resonant for adults.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: A Storyteller’s Magic
Mary-Joan Gerson’s prose is lyrical yet straightforward, making the tale easy to follow while preserving its oral storytelling roots. The pacing is deliberate, allowing each moment—especially the sky’s departure—to land with weight.
What truly elevates the book are the vibrant illustrations by Carla Golembe. The rich colors and expressive imagery immerse readers in the Nigerian setting, enhancing the story’s emotional impact. The visual storytelling complements Gerson’s words beautifully, making this a feast for both the eyes and the mind.
Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just a Folktale
At its core, Why The Sky Is Far Away is a lesson in sustainability and respect for nature. The sky’s retreat mirrors real-world consequences of environmental exploitation—when we take too much, we lose what we once had for granted.
Other key themes include:
- Greed vs. Gratitude – The villagers’ downfall comes not from need, but from waste.
- Consequences of Actions – The sky’s departure is irreversible, teaching that some mistakes can’t be undone.
- The Value of Work – After losing the sky’s bounty, people must labor for food, suggesting that effort fosters appreciation.
These themes make the book an excellent conversation starter for parents and educators discussing responsibility with children.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Story Stays With You
Reading this book felt like listening to a wise elder share a story by firelight. There’s a warmth to it, even as it delivers a sobering message. The moment the sky pulls away is haunting—I found myself pausing, imagining how terrifying and humbling that must have been for the villagers.
What struck me most was how universal the message is. While rooted in Nigerian tradition, the tale mirrors global myths about human folly and ecological balance (think of the Greek myth of Pandora’s Box or the Native American “Legend of the Three Sisters”). It’s a reminder that wisdom transcends borders.
Comparison to Other Works in the Genre
Fans of African folktales like Anansi the Spider (by Gerald McDermott) or The Magic Gourd (by Baba Wagué Diakité) will appreciate Gerson’s work. Like these stories, Why The Sky Is Far Away blends cultural specificity with universal morals.
It also shares thematic similarities with modern eco-fables like The Lorax by Dr. Seuss—both warn against exploiting nature, though Gerson’s tale does so with a gentler touch.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✅ Timeless Moral – The lesson about greed and sustainability is eternally relevant.
✅ Stunning Artwork – Carla Golembe’s illustrations are vivid and immersive.
✅ Cultural Authenticity – Gerson honors the Nigerian oral tradition without dilution.
Minor Weaknesses:
❌ Limited Character Depth – Some may wish for more backstory, but this is typical of folktales.
❌ Abrupt Ending – The sky’s departure is sudden, which may leave younger readers wanting more closure.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Parents & Educators – Perfect for teaching kids about responsibility and environmental care.
- Folklore Enthusiasts – A must-read for lovers of world myths and cultural stories.
- Young Readers (Ages 5-10) – The language is accessible, and the illustrations captivate.
Memorable Quotes & Passages
“The sky was angry. ‘You have wasted my gifts,’ it said. ‘From now on, you will have to work for your food.’ And with that, the sky rose far above the Earth, never to be touched again.”
This climactic moment is both poetic and chilling, encapsulating the story’s core message in just a few lines.
Cultural & Historical Context
This folktale originates from the Bini people of Nigeria, part of a rich oral tradition passed down through generations. Gerson’s retelling preserves its essence while making it accessible to a global audience. Understanding its roots adds depth—this isn’t just a story; it’s a piece of cultural heritage.
Final Thoughts: A Story That Demands to Be Shared
Why The Sky Is Far Away is more than a children’s book—it’s a timeless parable that resonates across ages. Its lessons about greed, gratitude, and consequences are as vital today as they were centuries ago. Whether you’re reading it to a child or revisiting it as an adult, this folktale leaves a lasting impression.
If you’re looking for a book that entertains while teaching profound truths, this is one you’ll want on your shelf.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- How does this folktale compare to other stories about greed you’ve heard?
- What modern-day parallels can you draw from the sky’s retreat?
- If you could speak to the wasteful woman, what would you say to her?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how this story resonated with you!
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