by Lily Williams (Author) Lily Williams (Illustrator)
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Gr 1-4–This book describes the crucial role honeybees play in our lives and how we can help them survive and remain healthy. The narrative starts in Kent, a county in the United Kingdom that is known as the “Garden of England.” The lush illustrations are packed with information about the kinds of bees, the inside of a hive, the process of pollination, and the foods that depend on honeybee pollination. The clear writing is engaging. Many essential vocabulary words and phrases are introduced, such as keystone species, pollinators, superorganism, and Colony Collapse Disorder. Each of these terms is clearly explained. At the beginning of the book, readers learn how honeybees impact life on earth, and then discover the threats to their survival and the ways humans can aid their survival. According to the text, if honeybees disappeared, most of the plants that bees pollinate would also disappear. Additionally, our favorite foods would become rarer, birds might disappear, and there would be a limited variety of crops. This unraveling effect is called a trophic cascade. But all is not lost. The extensive back matter includes a substantial list of ways to save the bees, a glossary, a bibliography, and additional sources. The result is a compelling look at the plight of the honeybee. The illustrations feature a girl with light skin and dark hair and a girl with brown skin and textured hair.
VERDICT A rich, well-designed offering with multiple uses for teachers and students. A standout among the many books about honeybees.
Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
Praise for the If Animals Disappeared series:
*"A successful balancing act between heralding disaster and promoting change—an informative debut."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review *"While the future is impossible to predict, Williams presents a scientifically grounded view of a world without sharks that should spark discussion and inspire action in budding ecologists. A terrific addition to any school or public library."—School Library Journal, starred review "A well-executed environmental primer that will leave readers considering the interconnectivity of the planet and its inhabitants."—Publishers Weekly "A solid addition to the climate-change canon for thse interested in saving a fragile world."—Kirkus "Bright, appealing illustrations and an ultimately empowering message provide a much-needed hopeful side to a complex topic." —School Library JournalLily Williams is the author and illustrator of many books including the nonfiction picture book series If Animals Disappeared, and graphic novels Go With The Flow and Look On The Bright Side. She grew up in Northern California and worked in feature animation before moving to Colorado. Lily seeks to inspire change, engage audiences, and educate people of all ages with her artwork.
Karen Schneemann grew up in Northern California. She received her first undergraduate degree in engineering from UCLA and her second in animation from California College of the Arts. In addition to being an engineer, artist, and writer, Karen is also a mom to two adorable kids. She lives and works in foggy San Francisco, California.