King Solomon and the Bee

by Dalia Renberg, Ruth Heller (Illustrator)

One day, when King Solomon was resting in his garden, a small bee accidentally stung the great king on his nose. Furious, the king summoned all possible offenders and demanded to know who had dared to sting him. A small bee came forward and, as it pleaded for the king’s forgiveness, offered to repay him. King Solomon was amused by the bee’s earnest proposal, for how could such a little bee repay such a powerful king? Dalia Hardof Renberg’s simple adaptation of this traditional story, pared with Ruth Heller’s glorious illustrations, is a surprising and charming tale of how one small bee keeps its mighty promise.

Genres: Picture Books, Folk Tales, Childrens

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Congetta · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is similar to the Aesop's fable, The Lion and the Mouse. I loved the vibrant colors used for the plants and insects.

[Shoshanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK I really loved this for many reasons. I love the time of the story which is light, a lil silly, and engaging! The main reason I love this though is the illustrations by Ruth Heller! This Jewish illustratress is best known for Chickens Aren't the Only Ones and always renders the natural world with such colorful and accurate illustrations!

[Amber Lyon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The bright and detailed art is captivating! I also think this story helps the reader see that even the littlest bee has something to offer.

[Set · Rating 5 out of 5]

The wise king is stung by a bee and he decides on whether or not to give it amnesty. Illustrations are nothing too fanciful but lovely anyway.