by Lela Nargi, Illustrations by Krysten Brooker

Schwartz & Wade, March 8, 2011.
Hardcover, 40 pages.
ISBN: 0375849807
Ages 5-8

Scientists tell us that we are losing our honeybee populations; the loss of their pollinating function could have devastating effects on our food supply. It is a very good idea to instill a respect for this essential insect in the next generation, and The Honeybee Man is a gentle and charming way to introduce the honeybees to children. Fear of being stung can be replaced with respect for the essential duty that these small insects do every day of their hard-working lives.

The Honeybee Man incorporates an appreciation of the complex social and physical structure of the hive. Following the grandfatherly Fred through his day with his bees children will gather a sympathy and respect for bees. Grownups will welcome the two page information article. Interesting facts about bees are there to help anyone who has lost touch with what they once knew about the complex society of this fascinating insect.

Illustrations by Kyrsten Booker illuminate every page of this story. The drawings of the kindly Fred and his multicultural neighborhood are simple and engaging. Inside the front and back covers on the end papers a parent or teacher is provided with scientific illustrations of the parts of bees, the differences between workers, drones and queens, as well as parts of a flower and the hive.

-- Sarah Reaves White

The Honeybee Man is available for purchase on Amazon.com

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