Written by an experienced apiculturist, this book is an introduction to the basics of bee physiology and behavior, dispelling many common myths of this ubiquitous insect. Wilcox celebrates the incredible diversity of bee species and the products that they provide. The life cycle of honeybees and the roles that workers, drones, and queens play is part of a discussion about what beekeepers do to keep colonies healthy. This introductory information provides the basis for a description of the problems facing bee populations that are decreasing at an alarming rate. Though not pointed to as a singular cause, Wilcox emphasizes the tenuous relationship between organisms in an ecosystem and the challenges that industrial agriculture present to maintaining the environment, and in particular, she focuses on bees' special role as pollinators for the world's food supply. This eye-opening book is a call to action, encouraging kids to plant flower gardens, support local farms, and raise awareness of the mysterious plight of disappearing bees. Full-color close-up photos and helpful diagrams add plenty of visual appeal.

Gr 4-6 "There's more to bees than honey," to quote the back cover of this thorough and fascinating look at these insects. It includes side trips into the greater world of why bees matter to world and local ecologies. Why might whole hives be dying? Why do we need bees? Why do fish need bees? How do bees differ from wasps? Do all bees make honey in hives? How can we help bees become healthy again? What are neonicotinoids? Wilcox, who describes her own foray into beekeeping in the introduction, raises and answers these and many more questions in easy prose. Great photos of kids, bees, and hives enhance the text. VERDICT A useful option for science teachers and students curious about bees and ecology. Dorcas Hand, Annunciation Orthodox School, Houston, TX