THE THING ABOUT BEES: A LOVE LETTER is an informative and gorgeously illustrated picture book about bees. The book describes why bees are so important- even though they might seem scary with the way that they can sting. The brunt of the text is a lyrical ode to bees as shown through the love of the young reader- we need bees just the way that we need you! I always love a good book that also expressed love of a youngster, and this one does that plus adds loads of information about bees.

There are some pages that are great resources about bees and wasps, such as which ones are likely to sting and how to avoid it/approach them. There is also information about how they help with pollination and how this in turn leads to fruits. These additions take the book a couple steps further into education as well as fun.

What I loved: The artwork here really steals the show- it is so gorgeous just to look through. My favorite page shows a young child in a bee costume riding on another's back in the center of an abstract flower. It is hard to describe but easy to enjoy. The text not only expresses love for the reader- perfect for a caregiver sharing with a child- but also explains about why bees are so important with information on pollination and how plants grow fruit. The page spread that explains about different kinds of bees/wasps and how to not get stung is really informative, and even taught me some new things!

Final verdict: Beautifully illustrated and informative, THE THING ABOUT BEES: A LOVE LETTER is a fantastic book for elementary-school aged readers to share with the adults in their lives. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to know more about bees- whether you've already been stung or not!