Master of the Forge

by Harold Courlander

Numukeba, a blacksmith from the Niger River kingdom of Joliba, readies himself to become a warrior-hero and struggles to uncover the meaning of fate, honor, and nobility in this mythical tale of African magic

210 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1985

Reviews

[Larry · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compilation of African folk tales. Each folk tale could stand alone but this is a collection whose central character is an African blacksmith named Numukeba who embarks on a quest into the bush for adventure to find valor. He intends to be gone for four years but he gets distracted and wanders until he becomes an old man. In his wandering Numukeba questions what role does destiny play and what role does chance play in a person's life. Which is the more powerful force, destiny or chance? Easy to read with deep philosophical currents. Enjoyable and engaging.

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A curious story in the manner of a folktale, this could appeal to many younger readers but has enough wit and philosophy to hold adults as well. Not for everyone, and not a "big" book, but I really enjoyed it.