Oral Literature in Africa (World Oral Literature) by Ruth Finnegan is an interesting perspective and study on the tradition of oral storytelling, especially in African countries. Oral Literature in Africa (World Oral Literature) by Ruth Finnegan is a comprehensive study guide with a well-researched look into the history of oral folklore and storytelling that has been around since the beginning of humankind. The book is divided into various chapters such as the history of this tradition, its social and linguistic background, the various forms and styles of poetry involved, the use of drums and rhythm to accompany it, dramatics, and the various “types” of storytelling in the form of short stories with morals, proverbs, poetry, stories as a teaching medium, and more. Also included are some photos taken during this field study as well as numerous references to similar works.

Oral Literature in Africa (World Oral Literature) by Ruth Finnegan is an interesting read and I found it especially fascinating to look at some of the pictures from Sierra Leone among other places that depict the storytellers and actual places. The book also provides a broad history of this oral tradition across the continent of Africa, with West, Central, and Southern Africa in particular. I also enjoyed reading the actual animal stories that are provided as examples in the book, along with several examples of actual lyrics of the oral songs or words of the oral story. Overall, this is a thoroughly researched book on this subject that I would recommend.

Effective communication varies from culture to culture. One way of communicating language is no better than another, but we can learn a lot from each other. World Oral Literature Series Volume 1: Oral Literature by Ruth Finnegan investigates how culture, tradition, and various forms of communication have been passed down from different parts of Africa. Ruth takes us on a journey where you will learn several ways in which they express themselves - from drums, dance, songs, parables and children's rhymes to prose. Each form of communication sets the backdrop and rhythm of the language. To help further illustrate the language of communication, Ruth displays beautiful photos of where some of the stories unfold. If you are interested in getting up close and personal with Ruth’s experience, she provides an online audio resource link of original songs and stories from the Limba people, a major ethnic group in Sierra Leone.

World Oral Literature Series Volume 1: Oral Literature by Ruth Finnegan displays not only various forms of communication within the African culture, but allows you to see that there are other effective ways to communicate. Effective communication in the United States is beginning to seem like a dying art form. In today’s society, some people display their ignorance and begin to stereotype or discount other forms of oral communication when they lack understanding. In order to become effective communicators, we must each invest time and have an interest in learning how to communicate with each other. We can learn a lot from other countries and learn other ways of communicating. If you are looking for a historical viewpoint pertaining to how other cultures communicate, start your research with World Oral Literature Series Volume 1: Oral Literature by Ruth Finnegan.