How to Bee
Book • 2020
by Bren MacDibble
A story about family, loyalty, kindness and bravery, set against an all-too-possible future where climate change has forever changed the way we live.
In a world where real bees are extinct, the quickest, bravest kids climb the fruit trees and pollinate the flowers by hand. Peony lives with her sister, Magnolia, and her grandfather on a fruit farm outside the city. All Peony really wants is to be a bee. Even though she is only nine — and bees must be ten — Peony already knows all there is to know about being a bee and she is determined to achieve her dream.
Life on the farm is a scrabble, but there is enough to eat and a place to sleep, and there is love. Then Peony’s mother arrives to take her away from everything she has ever known. Peony is taken to the city to work for a wealthy family. Will Peony’s grit and quick thinking be enough to keep her safe?
How to Bee is a beautiful and fierce novel for younger readers, and the voice of Peony will stay with you long after you read the last page.
Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts:
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.6
Describe how a narrator's or speaker's point of view influences how events are described.
How to Bee
Book • 2020
by Bren MacDibble
A story about family, loyalty, kindness and bravery, set against an all-too-possible future where climate change has forever changed the way we live.
In a world where real bees are extinct, the quickest, bravest kids climb the fruit trees and pollinate the flowers by hand. Peony lives with her sister, Magnolia, and her grandfather on a fruit farm outside the city. All Peony really wants is to be a bee. Even though she is only nine — and bees must be ten — Peony already knows all there is to know about being a bee and she is determined to achieve her dream.
Life on the farm is a scrabble, but there is enough to eat and a place to sleep, and there is love. Then Peony’s mother arrives to take her away from everything she has ever known. Peony is taken to the city to work for a wealthy family. Will Peony’s grit and quick thinking be enough to keep her safe?
How to Bee is a beautiful and fierce novel for younger readers, and the voice of Peony will stay with you long after you read the last page.
Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts:
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.6
Describe how a narrator's or speaker's point of view influences how events are described.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
The story addresses complex themes like climate change and economic disparity, requiring a level of comprehension suitable for older children. The protagonist's resilience and problem-solving also align with the cognitive abilities of this age group.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
This story focuses on themes of family and bravery, with no romantic or sexual content mentioned.
Violence & Gore
While the story centers on a 'scrabble' for survival and potential danger in the city, it is described as being for 'younger readers' and likely involves mild peril or conflict rather than graphic violence or gore.
Profanity
No instances of profanity are indicated in the available information, suggesting a clean dialogue suitable for younger audiences.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There is no mention of any alcohol, drug, or smoking content in the available information.
Frightening Scenes
The story touches on a challenging future and the protagonist's safety concerns, which might create some suspense or mild intensity for younger viewers.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This is a story about a brave girl who dreams of being a bee in a future where real bees are gone. When she has to move to the city, she uses her smarts and courage to navigate a new life and stay true to herself.
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The narrative presents a future impacted by climate change, which may be a sensitive topic. The story includes themes of separation and navigating unfamiliar, potentially challenging environments, highlighting a child's vulnerability and resourcefulness.
What Kids Can Learn
Children can learn about the vital role of bees and environmental stewardship, understand the importance of adapting to change, and be inspired by a protagonist who faces difficulties with grit and heart.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Appeals to adults with its poignant themes of resilience and hope in the face of environmental and social challenges, and its well-crafted, impactful narrative voice.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
Emphasizes perseverance through challenges, the importance of family bonds even when separated, and the value of courage in pursuing dreams. Kindness and loyalty are presented as essential virtues in a difficult world.
Positive Role Models
Peony exhibits strong determination, resourcefulness, and bravery, serving as an inspiring example of overcoming adversity. Her grandfather provides a grounding influence of love and stability.
Diverse Representations
While the primary focus is on a young girl's journey, the narrative implicitly touches upon socioeconomic disparities between rural farm life and wealthy city living.
Educational Value
Explores the consequences of climate change, introduces the concept of pollination and its importance, and encourages critical thinking about social structures and personal resilience.
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