Dalia Hardof Renberg

The author's note explains that this is a retelling of Hayyim Nahman Bialik's story, "The Bee," in his And It Came to Pass (Hebrew Publishing Co., 1938); Bialik's story includes this book's first interaction between King Solomon and a young bee who stings the king's nose. Renberg notes that this is not found in the Talmud and scholars don't know if it is from a folk tale or Bialik's imagination.
Solomon forgives the bee, even though he scoffs at the bee's suggestion that he might help the show more king in the future. Of course, the humble bee is right, Solomon is able to solve the Queen of Sheba's test, and we learn that kindness to the least creature can be worthwhile.
The pictures are colorful and lovely. show less

"King Solomon and the Bee" is a retelling of a legend of King Solomon reminiscent of Aesop's fable "The Lion and the Mouse". A young bee accidentally stings King Solomon's nose and promises a favor in return for his forgiveness. When the Queen of Sheba later comes and gives King Solomon a puzzle based on flowers, the bee is able to repay the king.

This book was playful as the bee stings the King's nose. His anger is one that children can relate to as they have most likely been bothered by insects before. The pages are full of colorful illustrations. The people are drawn largely and are full of details that help the reader imagine King Solomon's world.This is a good book to use to talk to children about promises, loyalty, and different strengths.

An illustrated retelling of the legend of the Queen of Sheba's visit to Ling Solomon. After stinging King Solomon, a little bee promises to make it up to him. And he has the chance in an unexpected way. Cute for primary students. The illustrations are bright and the flora and fauna very well done.