Written by: Candace Fleming
Illustrated by: Eric Rohmann
Approximate read time: 15 minutes
Age group: 6 – 9
Rating: B +
Book Review: Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera
Honeybee is an amazingly educational story about the life of a female bee. To briefly cover what could be considered the only downside: it’s dry, which makes it less repeatable. The positives outweigh that though: it’s a structured story with a realistic plot line that builds up, and it explains in detail the process of honey-making and the valuable role of bees. Unlike much of children’s literature, it’s devoid of emotional content. Instead, the focus is on following the path of life, patiently and dutifully. There’s something very zen about this book. The illustrations perfectly match the content: informative, detailed, and pleasant.
This book is great for adults too. Did your kids learn and enjoy this book as much as you did?
Excerpt:
“When Apis turns twelve days old, glands in her abdomen begin making flakes of white wax. It is time for her new job.
Flying?”
Other information:
Robert F. Sibert Medal
Orbis Pictus Honor Book
Texas Bluebonnnet Master List
AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books Finalist
Published by: Neal Porter Books
Number of pages: 40
Language: English