picture from amazon.com
by Jay Hosler, Ph.D.
published by Active Synapse, OH, 2000
Summary: The life of bees is examined with humor and science in a graphic novel context.
Strengths: I began reading this book hesitantly because it looked like common comic books, which are book in a genre I do not tend to enjoy. Fortunately, this book surprised and captivated me! I was wary that the pictures had no color, but began to realize that color would make the pictures too busy. The characters were all very funny and the book added a lot of humor and characterization to science. Readers learn about metamorphosis, different insects, prey, and camouflage, as well as the message of individualism and trying new things. This book also provides information about the author that will be comforting to children with allergies to bees.
Concerns: Some parents may be concerned with the way the book starts with the relation to the creation of Earth, but teachers can have students begin reading the book after that part if it is a problem. There are some large words that students will need to look up in the dictionary and some of the jokes will not be understood by students unless they have background information on the topic. Finally, the aspect of death is present in the novel.
Classroom Use/ Other Comments: This book would be great for children 10 and up. Teachers can use this in lessons on metamorphosis and insects. There are neat ways for students to remember things about bees, such as the word "pupa", through the witty statements of different characters. Information at the end provides In addition, teachers could teach a lesson on math based on pages 94 and 95 about the shape and size of the combs. Finally, teachers can incorporate dance into instruction through this book based on the dance the bee describes.
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