The bee book

This attractive book is divided into four sections. The first section, An Amazing World of Bees, introduces readers to the basics of bees what they are, their anatomy, their history and evolution as pollinators, a few interesting examples from among the 25,000 species worldwide, how they fly, and the waggle dance to communicate flower locations. Attracting Bees comes next, with explanations of how bees find flowers specific for their anatomies using color, scent, and electrical fields. There are even instructions on building a variety of types of bee houses and boxes suitable for solitary and colonial bees. The many photos of plants for bees are accompanied by a key that indicates the users (honeybees, native solitary bees, and bumblebees), whether they are sources of nectar and/or pollen and whether they are used for honey. Most of the plants are horticulturals found in British gardens, though most can also be found in North America. The Caring for Bees section is illustrated with numerous photos. Hive-management techniques, the harvesting process for honey and wax, and hive health are among the many topics. Missing is a bibliography that could verify the information within and make this a reference book. For example, a reference to the research that indicated that pollinators, even native ones, preferred exotic Southern Hemisphere plants in British gardens really needs a citation. That said, this is a charming, information-rich book that should lead readers to appreciate bees and welcome them into their gardens and wild places and even encourage some to keep honeybees.--Scarth, Linda Copyright 2016 Booklist

Gr 5 Up-Half science lesson and half "how to" manual for beekeeping, this enticing book will keep readers occupied for days, if not longer. The first half discusses bee evolution and what goes on in a hive. Information on honey, beeswax, and colony predators and a brief discussion of colony collapse disorder are followed by discussion of the "waggle dance" and several pages of bee houses and bee-friendly flower gardens. The second half is a guide to beekeeping, though it is still compelling for those without access to bee colonies. Along with general content is specific material on topics such as reportable pests and diseases and how to collect a swarm. The book concludes with about 30 projects and recipes, such as beeswax candles and honey lemon cough drops. The work is visually gorgeous, with a balanced layout of photos, illustrations, text, and sidebars. Tenderhearted readers may cringe to learn a drone's genitals are pulled from his body upon mating and that a beekeeper may need to "cull the queen" of a poorly performing colony. This book could broaden the focus for those who like reading about sharks, war, diseases, and things that are a little bit icky yet scientific. VERDICT Fascinating for many ages and a great addition to the science section of any middle or high school library.-Maggie Knapp, Trinity Valley School, Fort Worth, TX © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.