The King of Bees

Written by Lester L. Laminack
Illustrated by Jim LaMarche

In a short, entertaining story about Henry, who lives with his Aunt Lilla, the reader learns about both bees and family. The author manages to tell a riveting story without being too scary and imparts information without being didactic. The reader will come away loving bees and hoping the bees survive.

The two live in Lowcountry South Carolina and struggle to make ends meet. Henry wants desperately to help his aunt in any way he can. He’s just a little young for some of the activities that appeal to him. He helps gather the eggs and quickly learns not to break any of them. He watches as his aunt tends her beehives and is fascinated. Aunt Lilla explains how the bees live and how they also work hard. When the bees swarm, Henry tries his best to make sure none of the bees leave him or Aunt Lilla. He’s learning to bee talk. Anxious moments occur, but it all turns out well in the end.

Beautiful illustrations accompany and help tell the story. Even the end papers add to an understanding of Henry’s world.

Recommended for a unit on nature or conservation. Great spark for further exploration.

  • King of BeesTitle: The King of Bees
  • Author: Lester L. Laminack
  • Illustrator: Jim LaMarche
  • Published: Peachtree Publishers, 2018
  • Reviewer: Sue Poduska
  • Format: Hardcover, 32 pages
  • Grade Level: PreK to 2
  • Genre: Picture Book, Fiction, Nature, Responsibility
  • ISBN: 978-1-56145-953-7
  • Extra: Author’s Note

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