MBQ Volume 2 Book

I guess I am off to a slow start in 2010. Since I read so much in 2009 and my nose is deeply buried in 22 books right now, I can't fault myself much for not finishing any of them yet. I picked this up because we're starting a beehive this year and Her Majesty's Secret Beekeeper recommended this book on a Craft gift guide for beekeepers. Plus, Levi will read any graphic novel in the house, so it's a good way to sneak in information when he doesn't realize he's learning.

Anyway, this is a graphic novel about bees. I know, I was born to write this book and someone got the book deal before I did. Life is unfair. Clan Apis has a fictional plot that follows the life of a honey bee named Nyuki from her first moments as a newly hatched larva, with scientific information about the life cycle and habits of the bee tucked in for an educational experience. There are some big themes for a graphic novel aimed at young people - feeling like you are called to your work, the necessity of cooperation, being part of something larger than yourself, and life/death. It's a little cheesy, but maybe I'm just jealous I didn't write it. Levi said a bunch of his classmates liked it when they were in like fourth grade. The art is good enough but not extraordinary. The bees look realistic, not anthropomorphized, which is both good and bad. The writer's obvious enthusiasm and adoration for the subject matter shines through, and you have to respect the kind of passion that would cause someone to risk their life (he has a bee sting allergy).