How the Leopard got his claws – Chinua Achebe

How the Leopard Got His Claws is a timeless fable co-written by Chinua Achebe and John Iroaganachi that explores themes of leadership, power, and community. In this beautifully illustrated tale, the once-kind and gentle Leopard rules the animal kingdom peacefully, until the disruptive Dog challenges his authority. Chaos erupts as Dog gathers a band of animals to overthrow Leopard, leading to betrayal and violence. Forced into exile, Leopard gains new, fearsome claws and teeth to defend himself and reclaim his kingdom. Achebe masterfully weaves a cautionary story about the dangers of greed, conflict, and the loss of harmony. This African folktale resonates with universal truths, making it a profound and engaging read for children and adults alike.