Here's why:
* Oral Tradition: The story has been passed down through generations orally, with variations appearing in different cultures.
* Simple Plot: The story features a simple plot with a clear moral lesson.
* Archetypal Characters: The frogs and the king are archetypes representing specific human traits and desires.
* Symbolic Meaning: The story carries a deeper meaning about the dangers of unchecked ambition, the importance of considering consequences, and the value of the status quo.
While the specific origin and author are unknown, it's been told and retold for centuries across different cultures, solidifying its status as a folktale.