The Rooftop Revelers - Ginkgo Tree Tales

Will five Korean japsang remain true to their ancient calling as protectors of the royal palace, or will they give it all up for a life of fame and fortune? Occasionally the friends take a night off from their duties and make their way across the rooftops of Seoul to the Shadow Club, where as the Rooftop Revelers they wow the crowd with their unique brand of music, always keeping their true identities a closely guarded secret. Then one night they are offered a very modern deal of a lifetime. How will they ever decide? And can they all agree?

From the authors of "I Bite the Bad Guys: A Tale of the Korean Tiger" comes this hilarious tale of fun, friendship, adventure, and responsibility. Wildly colorful illustrations chock full of detail by Korean artist Sangin Lee give readers a lot to discover as they follow the japsang through the streets of Seoul. But the excitement really starts when The Rooftop Revelers take the stage at the Shadow Club. Who knew traditional Korean instruments could sound like that!?

Ages 4 - 8
Hardcover: 9.25" x 11"
50 pages

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What Our Readers Are Saying

“I will not be surprised to learn that this book is the next major animation movie put out by Disney or Pixar! We can’t keep this book on the shelves in our library and my own children are reading it on repeat at home. An engaging and innovative story that brings Korean history and culture to life in a modern and fun way. The illustrations are detailed and unique, allowing the reader to find something new every time they read the book.

Stephanne Siberry, Teacher-Librarian, Dwight School Seoul

"’The Rooftop Revelers’ is a delightful and beautifully illustrated tale that transports readers into the rich cultural world of Korean Japsang. The story is engaging, and the detailed illustrations by Sangin capture the imagination, making it an excellent read for children and families. The book not only entertains but also educates readers on Korean folklore in a way that is both accessible and enjoyable. It’s a perfect addition to any school library, especially for those looking to introduce students to diverse cultures and traditions.”

Sharlene Carki, Elementary Principal, Korea International School, Seoul Campus

“I love books and always have one going, though rarely read children’s books. But when I saw this book’s cover with its beyond fabulous illustrations of adorably quirky ‘Rooftop Revelers,’ I was curious to see where they would take me. Who could ever dream that these off-beat guardians of the palace by day would one night venture into the city to entertain at the Shadow Club? But what would the Revelers decide when the club owner offers them a lucrative contract that would make them rich stars? Will they stay with the palace? The same authors of ‘I Bite the Bad Guys’ have written this dazzling Korean tale for children (and adults) of all ages and from all countries.”

Gaynell Wood, Educator and Management Consultant

Meet the Characters

That’s “Hello!” in Korean. I’m The Rev. I’m excited to share this story about my friends and me, the japsang (jahp song). You can see us lined up on the roof of the royal palaces in Korea where we have sat for hundreds of years, protecting the buildings from danger, especially fire.

Let me show you what we look like on the palace roof and how the authors of this story imagined each of us if we came to life.

Annyeonghaseyo!

I always sit in front because I am the leader of the group. I spend a lot of my time trying to keep the others under control. They don’t make it easy sometimes!

This is Monkey King. He’s a fun little guy, but he is very excitable and has difficulty staying focused. And still!

Pig Monster is always helpful and kind, but he’s rather shy. He comes out of his shell, though, when it’s time to make music!

Water Demon, hmmm, what can I say? He’s a flashy dresser and has good ideas, but at times he is a bit of a complainer. Oh, and you’ll see that sometimes he forgets to shave!

Pangolin is a good friend to all of us, but he is always looking for a snack, especially his favorite, bori gangjeong, crispy barley puffs. For a little guy he sure does eat a lot!

Dragon Head is not actually a Japsang, but he is also an important palace protector, especially when we’re not around.

This is us, the japsang, otherwise known as The Rooftop Revelers when we take a break from our duties and revel in something a little more fun. But don’t tell anyone. Read the story and you’ll find out why.