When the Bees Fly Home

"With magical pictures and a captivating story, When The Bees Fly Home tells of a family learning to celebrate two very different sons. It's a book that will help families have lively, positive discussions about gender and differences. Alongside the story are fascinating bee facts, offering a place for the reader to alight before flying back into this poignant tale of a boy's wish for acceptance from his father." -Anne K. Fishel, Assistant Professor, Harvard Medical School Director, Family and Couples Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital

It’s frustrating for young Jonathan, the son of a beekeeper, when he isn’t quite strong enough to help his dad with some of the work on the farm. Sometimes his father is irritable with him, and it’s worse now, because the family is struggling to make ends meet during a drought, and their bees aren’t making much honey.

When Jonathan’s mom stays up late one night to make beeswax candles to sell at the local farmer’s market, Jonathan comes downstairs to help. He puts his own skills to work modeling small wax animals and insects to decorate the candles—which prove so popular that they come home from the market with orders for lots more.

Boys often gain recognition for their strength and athletic ability, and those who do not fit into the traditional mold may feel misunderstood. When the Bees Fly Home helps us see that artistic and sensitive boys have their own special place.