The authors intersperse information about the intricate social structure of the bee world and the problems faced by bees--ranging from the ubiquitous Varroa destructor to overuse of pesticides and an ever-shrinking natural landscape--with conversations and interviews with beekeepers and bee experts from across the world, balancing the views of those who see bees as simply a valuable source of income with the views of those who see bees as undervalued, misunderstood creatures that need our help to survive. The end result is a fascinating, accessible overview of a species that is crucial to our survival.

Published in Partnership with the David Suzuki Institute