This is a book for both young and old lovers of folklore. Why Monkeys Live in Treesand Other Stories from Benin is a rich tapestry of oral tales that come from a wide range of Beninese ethnic groups. They include trickster tales and sacred tales involving the greatest and meanest of mankind, as well as nature and the world of spirits. These ageless tales remind us of the power of love, the perils of greed and pride, and the redemptive virtues of courage, humility, and kindness.

The Western African Republic of Benin (formerly Dahomey) is gifted with a great folktale tradition, one of the richest in the world. As pieces of oral literature and cultural history, these tales shed light on some of the values and beliefs as well as the customs and traditions of the people of Benin.

Raouf Mama is a Distinguished Professor of English at Eastern Connecticut State University. His books include Why Monkeys Live in Trees and Other Stories from Benin (2006), winner of the 2008 National Multicultural Children's Publication Award; The Barefoot Book of Tropical Tales (2000); Pearls of Wisdom (2001, with Mary Romney); and Why Goats Smell Bad (1998). Mama regularly travels to various parts of the world to work with teachers, education professionals, and children, using storytelling as a multicultural teaching and motivational tool. He has worked in partnership with UNICEF and the School of African Heritage in promoting education and cultural awareness through storytelling.