The Royal Bee

by Frances Park, Ginger Park, Christopher Zhong-Yu Zhang (Illustrator)

Based on a true story, The Royal Bee is an elegantly written tale that pays tribute to a young boy's courage and strength of character. Song-ho is a young Korean boy destined by birth to a life of poverty. Barred from going to school--only the sons of wealthy families could attend--he dreams of learning to read and write. Then one day he hears the sound of a school bell and follows it deep into the valley. There, the school master turns him away, but Song-ho's boldness and determination earn him a chance at gaining an education nevertheless. Dramatically illustrated with richly textured oil paintings, the story offers glimpses of daily life in Korea a century ago--for both the rich and the poor.

Genres: Picture Books, Historical Fiction, Childrens, School, Fiction, Asian Literature, Cultural

32 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2000

About the author

I grew up in an era when the U.S. Census Bureau need only come to my family's house to get a total head count of Koreans in my ‘burb. That reality is often reflected in fourteen books by publishers big and small for readers young and old.

BLUE RICE (Vine Leaves Press/June 2024) is a timely tale of a young woman from northern Korea who takes what fate deals her following the Korean War, including her acclimation to 1960s America when her husband deserts her.

On the horizon is a children's book SUKA'S FARM (Albert Whitman/March 2025), a testament to a hungry Korean boy's desire to feed his family during the Japanese Occupation.

THE SUMMER MY SISTER WAS CLEOPATRA MOON (Heliotrope NYC/Sept 2023) is a revised and streamlined version of a novel originally published in 2000, long before the era of K-Pop and K-Dramas. A quarter century later, the Oscars have proven that stories about the Asian American experience have certainly come to light, and that audiences are receptive. That said, playing in my mind like vintage footage, I was always hoping that somehow, someday, I could bring the Moon family back to life, sisters Marcy and Cleo cruising around in that yellow Mustang on their way to Taco Town in the summer of '76. And here it is!

Other works include GRANDPA'S SCROLL (Albert Whitman/May 2023), my sixth co-authored children's book with sister Ginger, my includes my memoir THAT LONELY SPELL: STORIES OF FAMILY, FRIENDS & LOVE (Heliotrope NYC/2022) and CHOCOLATE CHOCOLATE: THE TRUE STORY OF TWO SISTERS, TONS OF TREATS, AND THE LITTLE SHOP THAT COULD (Thomas Dunne/ 2011), Shorter works - stories and essays - have appeared in O: The Oprah Magazine, The Chicago Quarterly, The Massachusetts Review, The Bellevue Literary Review, The London Magazine, Pleaides, Spirituality & Health Magazine, OZY, Slice, Folio, Gulf Coast Journal, and Arts & Letters, to name a few. One work earned a spot on THE BEST AMERICAN ESSAYS 2017 Notable List.

More co-authored and highly-praised children's books include MY FREEDOM TRIP: A CHILD'S ESCAPE TO NORTH KOREA (Boyds Mills Press/1998), winner of The International Reading Association Award; THE ROYAL BEE (Boyds Mills Press/2000), winner of The Joan B. Sugarman Award; and GOOD-BYE, 382 SHIN DANG DONG (National Geographic Children’s Books/2002), described by Newsweek magazine as "the perfect all-American story".

I've been interviewed on 'Good Morning America', CNN, the Diane Rehm Show, Voice of America, Radio Free Asia, and NPR.

When I'm not in writing mode, I'm at Chocolate Chocolate, a sweet boutique in Washington, DC breaking bonbons with customers. Books + Chocolate = A Dream Life!

Visit me at www.parksisters.com.

Reviews

[Ch_hayley Medsker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Royal Bee by Frances Park tells a story of a poor Korean boy and his mother in the late 19th century. Song-ho's days are filled with chores, and dreaming of life outside the fields. Song-ho's widowed mother works hard harvesting crops and struggles to provide the already almost perished food upon their table. Song-ho dreams of getting an education and getting himself and his mother out of poverty. Drawn away from his household chores by the sound of the school bell in the valley, Song-ho, a “sagmin” is told by the school Master Min that only the privileged "yangban" children may attend. Each day, however, the boy listens outside the door, and learns each day's lesson. All the while, Master Min ensures that his voice can be heard loud and clear through the rice paper doors. On a particular cold morning, the kind master invites him in. Song-ho is challenged by his master and classmates, who question how smart Song-ho really is and pepper him with question after question about history and knowledge. Not only is Song-ho successful in the Q & A, he is allowed to join the school, where his classmates praise him for his competence and determination. Later, he is selected to represent the school in The Royal Bee, a competition of intelligence among other students in the land. Song-ho goes far in the Bee, and is one of the final competitors. His final answer to "What does winning The Royal Bee mean to you?" brings him a standing ovation. He answers, simply and graciously, that his only thoughts are in aiding the survival of him and his mother. He is honored with winning the Royal Bee and reaps the winner's rewards, a cow with a gold coin necklace. The message is so powerful; a selfless boy only wants to make his mother happy and obtain an education. The wish is so simple and so genuine. The illustrations allow the reader to visualize what East Asia looked like many years ago, and create a beautiful setting for the listener or reader to imagine. Students in grades 1st through 3rd can appreciate this historical text. While Song-ho’s story may have been fictionalized, the events of a boy, achieving education and class, despite his meager beginnings is derived from Park’s own grandfather’s story 100 year ago.

[Stacy Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think the illustrations were beautiful and the story was very amazing to read as well. I expected less for this children's book, but I don't think I shouldn't call it a "Children's Book" because many people of all ages will find themselves loving each and every page of the story.

[Rebeca Sanchez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young Song-ho and his mother are poor people struggling to make meets end in the land of Korea. Song-ho's dad died out in the sea, so his mom has to work hard to provide for her own son. Because Song-ho wasn't rich, he isn't given the privilege to study at school and instead stays home. Every day he hears the bells of a nearby school ring, so Song-ho follows and listens to the lectures that the teacher gives his students. Once his mom leaves for work, he goes on to listen to the teacher's lessons and learns something new. Once the season changes, Song-ho is given the opportunity to actually step into the lesson and learn. After some time in the class, he's nominated to compete in the Royal Bee and wins. His determination is one thing that is constantly touched when wanting a better life, so Song-ho does this when bringing his prizes home.

I really liked how the authors, Frances and Ginger Park, retell a story of their grandfather's struggles when living in Korea through his experience through a new character. In this book, the message of education is pure with the opportunities given when Song-ho succeeds in his schooling. Inspired by a true story, the story has a connection to success for people that were able to achieve success in life and provide better futures for their families. As a first-generation college student, I felt that the story shows that education and persistence are strong goals that are achievable in one way or another. I also liked the colors used in the book from the double-spread images and the watercolor-like drawings that creates a calming and hopeful atmosphere for the story.
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[Hannah Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

The illustrations look like something you would see on a canvas that was painted with oil paint - remarkably beautiful. The book was based on a true story and takes place in countryside of Korea during the late nineteenth century. Song-ho is a boy from a single-mother home (his fisherman father passed away at sea) and although his mother works in the fields all day long, he lives in poverty. During this time in Korea, only the wealthy could afford schooling. Song-ho stumbles upon the Sodang school where he meets Master Min. Master Min knew Song-ho was eavesdropping outside of his classroom, but his tender heart could not turn Song-ho away. Song-ho joined the classroom on a chilly day and became the #1 student in his classroom and represented the school in the Royal Bee. Song-ho won the Royal Bee by stating what the Royal Bee meant to him.
This story is beautifully written and teaches children a valuable lesson. Education is priceless. I believe it's important for students to realize that their education is a privilege, just as Song-ho realized. Song-ho's desire to give his mother a more comfortable life and for him to receive education was so powerful. This was his only wish. An older audience may appreciate this story more as more mature readers may have walked in Song-ho's shoes, but this story is also appropriate to teach children the power of education, selflessness, and this can be used for a history lesson as well.

[Georgina Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story about perseverance, and chasing your dreams. A great read for children and adults.

This story draws inspiration from the authors’ grandfather and his experience of growing up in an impoverished farming village. Only the children from wealthy families are allowed to attend school, but our main character continues to attend lessons listening to the teacher from the other side of the door. His dedication is recognized, and I would invite you to read the rest of the book to find out what happened next!

The quality of the illustrations has vivid colors and textures, like the Park sisters’ other book My Freedom Trip. Story offers a remarkable glimpse into Korea of a bygone era. During the scene at the spelling bee, readers can enjoy pictures of the characters wearing traditional garb, and the robes and hats look incredible!

[Audrey Gutierrez · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Royal Bee is a beautifully told story that gives the reader insight into another culture. It teaches the reader about various messages such as the importance of education and being kind to others. The main character was not part of the upper-class group so he was not allowed to go to school. This story highlights how with perseverance, one can accomplish anything they want. While the story is pretty long for a picture book, it held my interest and I would be interested in reading this to my 4th grade students.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Song-ho was a poor boy to a widowed mother who struggled to make ends meet. Each morning when the school bell rang, Song-ho would sneak to listen and learn the lessons that were forbidden to him, but available only to the privileged upper class. However, through the kindness of the teacher, Song-ho's academic prowess won him favor from the other pupils and a seat to join them in their learning.

This is the true story of the authors' grandfather who went on to win the prestigous award of highest academic standing in the country at his time.

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books illustrations were very beautiful. It was quite the opposite of what you would usually find in a children's book. I also liked the cultural setting of the book. Between the illustrations and the vocabulary used I could use this to talk about cultural similarities and differences.

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a true story is adapted for picture book readers, it carries a special resonance. At least, that's my experience -- including my experience of this book.

Such a moving story of brave Song-ho.

When you read this one, Goodreaders, bring tissues.

[Sophia Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Description: A retelling of a Korean folktale about a young girl who saves her kingdom with the help of bees and courage.

Note: This book can be used to explore themes of bravery, problem-solving, and teamwork, as well as introduce children to Korean folklore.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little wordy for a read aloud, but a nice story.

[Sarah Threlkeld · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love the story and message; just not a fan of the illustrations. Might be too text-heavy to hold the interest of younger students.

[Alix · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short historical fiction picture book focused on Korea. Tells the story of an impoverished boy who wants to become educated so that he can have a better life and support his single mother.

[Ms. Brewer · Rating 3 out of 5]

4th Grade Review
"I rated this book 3 stars because i was not interested in the book but I liked it." The student's favorite part of the book was when he got to go to school. -E.S.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

A story set in Korea about a young man back at the turn of the 19th century and how he brought honor and some wealth to his family his mother particularly

[Gretchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this recently with a first-grade student and he seemed to like it just as much as I did. Such a rich story with grace and beauty. A plus is that it is based on a true story.

[Nanny B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on a true story.

[Karen Bessin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Song-ho grew up in Korea in a time when education was only for the upper class. Not allowed to enter the school room, Song-ho sat outside the door each day, listening to the teacher’s every word but not realizing that the teacher could see his shadow through the paper door. When winter came, though, it was too cold to stay outside, and another solution had to be found. A tale of the courage to follow your own dreams and create your own place in the world, based on a true story. Illustrated by Christopher Zhong-Yuan Zhang (Genre: Historical fiction picture book. Ages 6-9.)

[Jolene Gutiérrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Korea, there was a time when only privileged children were able to go to school. Song-ho was a boy who had to work and wasn't allowed to go to school, but he's able to hear the lessons through the door. Song-ho listens and learns until he's invited into the classroom. Once in the classroom, Song-ho proves himself as a stellar student. He's chosen by his classmates to represent the Sodang School in the Royal Bee! Song-ho's brilliant mind and studious habits lead him to win the Royal Bee and is awarded a prize cow and gold coins.

I love that this story is based on Frances Park's and Ginger Park's grandfather's experiences. This powerful and important story is recommended for all homes, classrooms, and libraries!

[Molly Swank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summary: The Royal Bee by Frances Park tells the story of a young Korean boy named Song-ho who was born into a poor family. Song-ho is required to do chores in the house to help his mother and can not afford to attend school even though he desperately wants to learn. Song-ho gets turned away from the school, but begins eavesdropping outside the classroom and learns how to read and write through his determination. The school teacher caught Song-Ho eavesdropping but decides to let him continue. Eventually, Song-ho is able to compete in the national spelling bee and ends up winning first place.
Theme: One theme in the book is that, if you are determined and brave you will succeed. Song-ho was not as fortunate as the other students and was born into poverty; however, he did not let this stop him from succeeding. Another theme in the book is that it is wrong to judge and underestimate someone. Song-ho was judged for his raggedy clothing and people did not expect him to be as smart as the other students because he was poor. Despite these judgements, he proves everyone wrong.
Personal Response: I can relate to this text because I have faced judgement in an academic setting where I was not as knowledgeable as other students on a specific topic. I believe everyone faces judgement or is underestimated at some point in their lives, and it is necessary to learn the importance of determination in these situations.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for several reasons. First off, this book teaches children the importance of being brave and determined when faced with adversity. In addition to this, this book provides a glimpse of what life was like in Korea in the past. Children will start to understand that education is not always available to people. Lastly, this book ultimately teaches children that knowledge is powerful, and whether you are rich or poor, everyone is capable of success if they are willing to work hard for it.

[Maryam · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Royal Bee by Frances Park is about a poor boy and his mother in the late 19th century Korea who work their fingers to the bone to eke out a living. Song-ho dreams of getting an education so he can provide his mother with a better life. When he does see a school and try to get a place, he is told that only the "yangban" (traditional ruling class or nobles) are allowed to attend. A "sangmin" (the lower class or servants bonded to the land), it seems that Song-ho is trapped in his life of poverty. Still, his love for learning is not quenched and he proceeds to listen to Master Min's the lessons outside the door every day.

One day, Master Min invites him in and proceeds to quiz him before his classmates who initially look down on him. He wins them over with his knowledge and is allowed to join the school. He works hard and is successfully chosen to represent his school in the Royal Bee, where he competes against the most intelligent students in the land. Song-ho reaches the final round and he and the other finalist are asked, "What does winning the Royal Bee mean to you?" His poignant answer, which is that he means only to help him and his mother get a better life, wins him the Royal Bee.

It is a touching and inspiring story. Song-ho, while poor, is rich in spirit and perseverance and it is this determination in him which earns him honour and a way out of poverty.

[Beth Schencker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful story based on the authors' grandfather growing up in rural Korea in the late nineteenth century. Song-ho was the only child of a poor widow. He longed to learn how to read and write so he could give more to his mother, but as the law was, only the wealthy children could attend school. So Song-Ho listened to the lessons outside the school door through rain and shine. Finally, the head master let him in when Song-Ho was almost frozen to death! His classmates welcomed him into the class. He was even chosen to be the school representative in the country wide contest called the Royal Bee. Using his knowledge and his honesty, Song-Ho won the contest. He finally could provide for his hard working mother.

The wonderful illustrations by Christopher Zhong-Yuan Zhang help support the mood of the story. In the end, we see Song-Ho leading the prize cow towards his mother who has her hands clasped over her mouth in disbelief. Great image.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspired by a true story The Royal Bee is a moving account of a young Korean boy's determination to learn. Excluded from school due to poverty, Song-ho eavesdrops outside a schoolroom until he is eventually permitted to attend. He achieves at a high level and ends up competing in the national competition 'The Royal Bee' for academic excellence. Naturally he does well, but it is his wisdom, not rote recall, that shines through and earns him the greatest honour.

This book could be read for a wide range of purposes from starting conversations about diverse cultures and poverty, or for developing the concepts of courage, motivation and love, or simply because this is an interesting, beautifully written story in its own right.

[Kendra Loch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully written story based on a true story of the authors grandfather tells of a young boy, Song-ho, who wants very badly to learn to read and write. Coming from a poor family, and his widowed mother doing everything she can, Song-ho was not allowed to go to school, for school was only for the wealthy children. Song-ho stood outside a classroom everyday until eventually he was let in. Song-ho ends up learning so much and becoming so full of knowledge that he wins The Royal Bee and gets to surprise his mother with all that he has learned and a cow, silk, and gold coins from The Royal Bee. This would be a great way to introduce to students that no every child gets to go to school, as well as it relating to students who are being raised by a single parent.

[Jana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a young boy in Korea (over 100 years ago) who was desperate to learn how to read and write. He was unable to attend school because only the sons of wealthy families were admitted to the school. But one day he follows the sound of the school bell to the door of the school. Even though the teacher turns him away, he stays and listens outside the door anyway. Eventually he was allowed to attend and he wound up winning a national academic contest.

I believe this book will make a terrific read aloud book for my students. I'm really looking forward to sharing it with them during the first days of school.

[Ky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book displays a difference in culture for U.S. students. The authors where inspired by their grandfather growing up in Korea. This story displays a young child's desire to learn. This is a third grade reading level but does have words that most children will not be familiar with, including Korean names.

[Matthew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an inspiring tale, with an undercurrent of truth since it was based on the authors' own grandfather's story. It really demonstrates the power of perseverance and strong character in the face on poverty and unfairness.

[Ronna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute! Tear jerker for me... we are studying Korea.

[Marilyn Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A classic story of a young have not that wants to go to school. Song-ho listens at the school window to make his dreams come true.

[M · Rating 3 out of 5]

A poor Korean boy longs to be educated and finds a way.