A guide to the history, behavior, and bounty of the humble bee

From backyard keeping to bee-centric foods and home goods, there’s no end to humankind’s fascination with bees. The Complete Bee Handbook is a compelling read and easy-to-use reference, packed with practical and thought-provoking information for bee lovers new and old.

Journey through the past, present, and future of the bee, including their evolution, their ever-critical role as pollinators, and the ongoing threats that jeopardize their survival. You’ll also discover a short and sweet cultural history of beekeeping, the numerous applications of bee products, and tips on how you can support your local bee population.

This bee guide explores:

• The life of the honey bee―Look into the mind of the hive as you learn about the role each bee plays in helping their colony function and thrive.

• Beekeeping for beginners―Get simple advice for cultivating a bee-friendly garden, from preferred plants to fun DIY accessories.

• Buzzworthy recipes―Try your hand at creative recipes for bee lovers, including mead, baklava, beeswax soap, and candles.

Discover everything you wanted to know about bees with The Complete Bee Handbook!

Review

“This wonderful book includes all kinds of betcha didn’t know information about the remarkable little honey bee. A highly entertaining read that’s both fascinating and richly informative! There’s nothing else like it on the market. It’s a must-read for every beekeeper or gardener―and anyone who loves nature and bees, and appreciates their vital role in our environment.” ―Howland Blackiston, Author of Beekeeping for Dummies

“World-class bee scientist Dr. Dewey M. Caron has written a comprehensive, yet approachable introduction to the history of beekeeping and the importance of bees to human culture. The subject matter is relevant too, with discussions of mites, colony collapse, neonics, and the economics of pollination. If you are a serious beekeeper or a student in an apiculture class, you need to consider The Complete Bee Handbook.” ―Lawrence Connor, Author and Editor of Wicwas Press

“Like a colony of bees, Dewey Caron takes nectar from a garden of apicultural topics and distills them into a delectable honey of a book for non-beekeepers and beekeepers alike.” ―Bill Mares, Author of Bees Besieged

“The Complete Bee Handbook is a joy for all who want to find out what goes on inside a beehive, what bees are doing, and how important this insect is to all of us. It is written in clear, simple language that conveys complicated information about bees. Even beekeepers will find it enjoyable, and the illustrations are particularly fun and informative. Such a joy to read!” ―Diana Sammataro, president of DianaBrand Honey Bee Research, LLC

About the Author

Dr. Dewey M. Caron is the emeritus professor of entomology at the University of Delaware. The author of eight books, including Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping, he is active in master beekeeping training in Oregon, California, and with the Eastern Apicultural Society.