The Royal Bee

This is a wonderful book about perserverance and teaching children about social justice. I have used it a number of times with students and highly recommend it. So many different ways to use a teacher!

This is a book I use with first graders to introduce the comprehension concepts of questioning, and predicting. They love the rich illustrations. The cover gives no hint as to what the "bee" is. The way their understanding of the story unfolds is wonderful. I highly recommend this book for teachers.

This book's underlying issue is the idea that the pursuit of literacy is, consequently, the pursuit of a dream and a way out of poverty. In fact, Song-ho often repeats the phrase, "If I only knew how to read and write..." The message is clear--through persistence, dedication, and with a kind heart, one can achieve anything he or she puts his or her mind to. I believe this book to be very enlightening for children who have difficulties in school, especially if a classroom teacher or parent discusses the book from a critical, socially aware point of view. Illuminate children to the fact that "poor" children are nonetheless very rich in heart and spirit, and are as hopeful as any child. Also point out that even though this book takes place in the nineteenth century, its theme will resonate for any generation. I recommend this book wholeheartedly!