The Magic Gem: A Korean Folktale about why cats and dogs do not get along

by Kim So-un, Jeong Kyoung-Sim

The Magic Gem is a much-loved Korean folk tale that tells the story of why cats and dogs don't get along.A poor fisherman wins a fabulous magic gem that grants his every wish before it's lost to a conniving neighbor. His cat and dog manage to recover the gem, but on the way home the dog loses it in the river. The clever cat gets it back and becomes the favored house pet, while the jealous dog gets nothing, which is why dogs and cats don't get along.

Genres: Fiction

32 pages, Hardcover

First published June 15, 2006

Reviews

[L · Rating 3 out of 5]

Un cuento sencillo y bonito, corto como para leerte tomándote un café.

[Luz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brings to life a magical world with talking animals and dragons. It tells a fun story about a dog and a cat going on an adventure, explaining why they usually don't get along. The story is full of surprises and teaches important lessons. The pictures in the book are beautiful and add to the magic. It's a great read for anyone who loves fairy tales.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ahhh that explains everything

It’s funny and cute. Great folk story and lesson on when to keep your mouth shut.

Good for kids and adults.

[P.P. Rahayu · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Magic Gem
by Kim So-un, Jeong Kyoung-Sim
3 out of 5 stars

The story itself is quite simple as well as the illustrations. What I found interesting is the folktale itself. I believe, in every culture, there will be a different story for the cause of why cats and dogs don't get along.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

A "Just-So" story from Korea. The quality of the illustrations varies wildly.