The King of Bees

As beekeepers, my wife and I give a lot of presentations to local schools. Recently, before school closings due to COVID-19, she was asked to read this book from a school library as part of the Read Across America program to a class of third graders. She also took in some beekeeping equipment.We then ordered this book for our great grandchildren, and our three-year old great grandson Charlie (in the center of the picture) who is an aspiring beekeeper was not disappointed. Having grown up in the Low Country of South Carolina, I appreciated the setting and the two characters, Henry and Aunt Lilla. It brought back fond memories of my childhood."The King of Bees" is lavishly illustrated with beautiful art, and the accompanying dialogue is insightful with valuable life lessons.As a certified North Carolina beekeeper with seven years’ experience, I wholeheartedly recommend this superb book to anyone who has young children.

I couldn't wait for this book to arrive. It is beautiful and the story is very special. Lester Laminack is a wonderful story teller, and Jim LaMarche was the best illustrator for this lovely story.

Another great book by Lester! As a beekeeper and a teacher, I am loving this book!

Lester Laminack does it again! Incredible writing and illustrations.

Mr. Laminack has done it again!

Amazing illustrations

The King of Bees is as exquisite of a children’s book as I have ever seen. Just doing a picture walk before reading is a delight for the eyes. The pastel illustrations are easy on the eyes but also draw the reader in to look closer at the expressions of the characters as well as the details in the setting.Just as lovely is the soft touch of the text. Even without reading the author’s note, it is clear he has an appreciation for bees and wants to convey that to reader. There is much information in this book on bees, told in just a way to encourage others to appreciate and kindly treat these pollinators.I also enjoyed the underlying story of the boy and his aunt. While not wealthy, they are nature rich and which comes across in book. It is a touching story of the bond between a child and an adult that extends to the world of bees. While I received a digital copy of this book, I feel that the print copy would be even more beautiful.The publisher through Net Galley provided an ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

This is a beautifully illustrated book written by Lester L. Laminack and illustrated by Jim LaMarche. It is a sweet story of a little boy who wants to help his aunt take care of her bees as well as learn how to bee speak. The text is quite lyrical and the story is told in a way that the reader of listener will be able to learn about bees, how they help humans and plants as well as the importance of protecting them. The author includes a website in the note at the end to learn more about honeybees. I can see this book being used in a late primary/early junior classroom when learning about bees, plants and pollination as well as protecting species. It is also just a nice story to read for enjoyment. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.