The story of Anansi the Spider originates from the Ashanti people of Ghana. It is one of the best-known of the tales they took with them when they were taken captive during the slave trade. In the Caribbean, Anansi is often celebrated as a symbol of slave resistance and survival. Anansi is a rogue, a mischief-maker, and a wise but lovable creature who triumphs over larger foes.

World Tales are well-known folk stories from around the world, retold in simple English. It is the first time these tales are published in an easy-to-read format.