32 Best Picture Books About Bees 🐝
Whether you’re exploring the wonders of pollination or simply delighting in the adorable antics of bee characters, these Picture Books About Bees are buzzing with captivating stories and stunning illustrations.
Sparking a love for nature in our children is a beautiful thing, and bees are a fantastic place to start! These busy insects play a vital role in our world, and for curious youngsters, their fuzzy bodies and buzzing wings hold endless fascination. If your little ones are eager to learn more about these fascinating creatures, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 32 best picture books about bees, offering a delightful mix of stories, facts, and stunning illustrations that will have them buzzing with excitement.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
32 Best Picture Books About Bees
Have your little ones become fascinated by fuzzy friends with buzzing wings? Dive into the wonderful world of bees with our list of the 32 best picture books about bees!
1. The Honeybee by Kirsten Hall
Kirsten Hall’s The Honeybee invites readers to buzz from flower to flower alongside a delightful honeybee in a stunningly illustrated picture book. Accompanied by the award-winning illustrator Isabelle Arsenault’s beautiful and vibrant artwork, this book captivates with its clever, rhythmic verse and celebrates the vital role of honeybees in our ecosystem. The enchanting narrative and mesmerising illustrations make this book a sweet treasure, perfect for young readers aged 4 to 8 years.

Price: £10.95
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 1,168 Ratings
2. Willbee the Bumblebee by Craig Smith & Maureen Thomson
From the bestselling creators of The Wonky Donkey, Craig Smith and Maureen Thomson bring us Willbee the Bumblebee, a delightful tale wrapped in catchy rhymes and charming illustrations. Willbee is mortified when his stripy jumper snags on a rose thorn and unravels, leaving his bum embarrassingly exposed! With the assistance of Monica the butterfly and Steve the spider, Willbee soon repairs his jumper and resumes buzzing around the garden. This endearing and humorous picture book is perfect for young readers aged 2 to 5 years.

Price: £5.39
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 4,011 Ratings
3. The Bumblebear by Nadia Shireen
Norman, a honey-loving bear, takes his obsession to new heights in The Bumblebear by Nadia Shireen. Determined to get his paws on the bees’ abundant honey supply, Norman dons a bee onesie and sneaks into Bee School, believing his disguise to be flawless. However, when the hive faces danger, Norman must decide if he can embrace his true nature and become a hero, transforming into The Bumblebear. This whimsical and charming picture book, with its delightful narrative and endearing illustrations, is ideal for young readers aged 2 to 5 years.

Price: £7.35
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 376 Ratings
4. Omar, the Bees and Me by Helen Mortimer
In Omar, the Bees and Me by Helen Mortimer, a simple act of sharing honey cake sparks a transformative idea to create bee-friendly corridors in the town. Inspired by Omar’s beekeeping grandpa, his teacher initiates a project that brings the community together. As Omar and his friend Maisie collaborate, they discover a mutual family passion for bees, and their friendship flourishes amidst the blooming flowers. This heartwarming story, enriched with themes of community and environmental stewardship, is perfect for young readers.

Price: £7.35
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 76 Ratings
5. Horsefly and Honeybee by Randy Cecil
In Randy Cecil’s Horsefly and Honeybee, a simple nap in the same flower turns into a squabble when neither insect wants to share. After storming off in opposite directions, Horsefly and Honeybee soon find themselves captured by a hungry Bullfrog. To escape before dinnertime, they must learn to cooperate and work together. This beautifully illustrated picture book, with its straightforward text, delivers a charming tale of sharing and friendship, making it ideal for young readers aged 4 to 8 years.

Price: £6.43
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Popularity: 16 Ratings
6. Give Bees a Chance by Bethany Barton
Bethany Barton’s Give Bees a Chance is a delightful and educational picture book perfect for young readers aged 4 to 8 years. Through interactive cartoon-style illustrations and a humorous narrator, the book explains the crucial role bees play in our world, from making delicious honey to helping plants grow fruits and vegetables. It highlights the importance of appreciating and protecting these incredible insects, especially now that bees are on the endangered animals list. This engaging and informative book is an excellent resource for fostering a love and understanding of bees in children.

Price: £6.84
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 484 Ratings
7. Betsy Buglove Saves the Bee by Catherine Jacob
In Betsy Buglove Saves the Bee by Catherine Jacob, readers meet Betsy Buglove, a spirited girl with an extraordinary love for bugs. From earthworms to ladybirds, Betsy delights in all things creepy-crawly. On her sixth birthday, she receives a magical magnifying glass that allows her to communicate with her insect friends. Armed with her new gift, Betsy embarks on exciting adventures, ensuring no bug ever gets into trouble. With its bright illustrations and rhyming text, this enchanting picture book is perfect for young nature enthusiasts aged 4 to 5 years. The engaging endpapers offer fun facts about various insects, making it a delightful read for parents, teachers, and carers to share with children.

Price: £7.35
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 125 ratings
8. Bee My Friend by Igloo Books
In Bee My Friend by Igloo Books, Poppy’s fear of bees is transformed into fascination and friendship when Bernard Bumblebee lands in her garden. Initially terrified of being stung, Poppy soon learns about the incredible things bees do and realises that friends can come in the unlikeliest shapes and sizes. Through this heartwarming story, children aged 3 to 6 will discover the importance of bees and the value of overcoming fears to form unexpected friendships.

Price: £6.15
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 88 Ratings
9. Bee and Me by Alison Jay
In Bee and Me by Alison Jay, a little girl living in a high-rise flat initially fears the bee that flies in through her window. However, this beautiful wordless picture book eloquently traces the development of a tender friendship between the girl and the bee. Through their story, young readers are introduced to the importance of bees in our ecosystem and learn how simple actions can help combat the plight of disappearing bumblebees. With a list of bee-friendly seeds to plant and practical ways to protect bees at home, this book is ideal for children aged 3 to 8 years, blending ecological education with enchanting illustrations.

Price: £7.35
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 184 Ratings
10. Bee: Nature’s tiny miracle by Patricia Hegarty
Bee: Nature’s Tiny Miracle, written by Patricia Hegarty and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup, is a captivating board book that follows a bee’s journey from flower to flower. With lyrical text and stunning peep-through die-cut artwork, this book beautifully illustrates the miracle of pollination. Award-winning illustrator Teckentrup’s vibrant illustrations bring the fascinating lives of bees to life, making it a delightful read for children aged 1 to 4 years. This enchanting book highlights the wonder of nature and the crucial role bees play in our ecosystem.

Price: £7.25
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 424 Ratings
11. Bee & Me by Elle J. Mcguinness
Bee & Me, in its mini abridged board book format, encapsulates the beloved story and captivating illustrations that have endeared it to countless children and parents nationwide, much like its New York Times bestselling predecessor. This heartwarming tale educates young readers about the vital role bees play in our ecosystem. The smaller size is perfectly suited for younger children, ensuring it fits comfortably in smaller hands and making it an ideal introduction to the wonder of bees. Recommended for ages 5 to 6 years, this book continues to charm with its educational and engaging narrative.

Price: £5.53
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Popularity: 139 Ratings
12. The Secret Life of Bees by Moira Butterfield
The Secret Life of Bees by Moira Butterfield invites readers into Buzzwing the honeybee’s enchanting world through beautifully illustrated pages that blend captivating science and intriguing folklore. From her bustling honey hive home, Buzzwing shares the wonders of bee life, including their intricate dances, remarkable sense of smell, and the secrets of honey production. This comprehensive guide explores the bee life cycle, anatomy, and the vital role bees play in our ecosystem, all accompanied by sumptuous illustrations that bring the bee’s world to vivid life. Packed with activities like scavenger hunts and poetry-writing exercises, this book is both educational and engaging, perfect for fostering a deep appreciation for these essential pollinators. Ideal for readers of all ages curious about the magical world of bees.

Price: £9.99
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 115 Ratings
13. Flight of the Honey Bee by Raymond Huber
Flight of the Honey Bee by Raymond Huber takes young readers on a captivating journey alongside a honey bee as she gathers nectar to nourish her hive and pollinates flowers, enabling the growth of seeds and fruits. This beautifully illustrated picture book is perfect for nature enthusiasts and budding scientists alike, offering an engaging exploration into the intricate life of a honey bee. Ideal for children aged 3 to 7 years, it combines educational content with delightful storytelling to inspire curiosity about the natural world and the vital role bees play within it.

Price: £12.18
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 89 Ratings
14. Bizzy Mizz Lizzie by David Shannon
In Bizzy Mizz Lizzie, Caldecott Honor illustrator David Shannon brings to life the vibrant tale of Lizzie, the busiest bee in Hivetown. Bursting with energy and humour, Shannon’s vivid artwork follows Lizzie as she juggles an overwhelming array of activities from school to sports, dance, violin, and art, all in a frantic bid to impress the Queen. However, Lizzie’s relentless schedule leads to exhaustion and a humorous mishap during a spelling contest, prompting her to learn the importance of balance and taking time to appreciate life’s simple pleasures. With wit and charm, Shannon tackles the theme of over-scheduling with breezy humour, delivering a funny and heartwarming story that resonates with both children aged 4 to 8 and adults alike.

Price: £15.94
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Popularity: 26 Ratings
15. The Bumblebee Queen by April Pulley Sayre
The Bumblebee Queen by April Pulley Sayre offers a captivating glimpse into the life of a North American queen bee, guiding readers through her journey from nest-finding to colony-ruling and egg-caring across the seasons of spring, summer, and fall. This beautifully illustrated picture book, recommended by the Junior Library Guild, provides an educational and engaging exploration into the life cycle and responsibilities of a queen bee. Ideal for young readers aged 6 to 8 years, Sayre’s narrative blends scientific detail with storytelling prowess, making it a delightful addition to any child’s library interested in nature and insects.

Price: £14.16
Rating: 5 out of 5
Popularity: 30 Ratings
16. Little Bee by Autumn Publishing
Little Bee by Autumn Publishing invites young readers into the enchanting world of a friendly bee and her life inside the hive through stunning illustrations and a delightful rhyming narrative. This beautifully crafted board book is designed for little hands to explore, making it an ideal bedtime read. Packed with adorable illustrations, it offers a perfect introduction to the natural world and the life cycle of honeybees, captivating curious early learners aged 3 to 6 years. With its engaging storytelling and educational content, Little Bee promises to make bedtime stories extra sweet while nurturing a love for nature in children.

Price: £5.89
Rating: 5 out of 5
Popularity: 10 Ratings
17. Why Do We Need Bees? by Katie Daynes
Why Do We Need Bees? by Katie Daynes is an informative lift-the-flap book that answers essential questions about bees for young children aged 4 to 6 years. With vibrant illustrations, accessible text, and interactive flaps to lift, this book engages curious minds in discovering fascinating facts about bees. From understanding how bees make honey to exploring the hierarchy within a beehive, children will gain a deeper appreciation for these vital pollinators and learn why it’s crucial to protect them. Perfect for early learners interested in the natural world, Why Do We Need Bees? combines education with interactive fun, making it an excellent addition to any child’s library.

Price: £9.09
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 419 Ratings
18. What If There Were No Honeybees? by Suzanne Slade
What If There Were No Honeybees? by Suzanne Slade explores the critical role honeybees play in ecosystems worldwide. This engaging picture book prompts young readers aged 7 to 9 to consider the impact of losing honeybees on grassland ecosystems and beyond. Through a compelling chain reaction narrative, Suzanne Slade illustrates the interconnectedness of species and the profound effect the disappearance of honeybees could have on our environment. Ideal for fostering environmental awareness and scientific curiosity, this book encourages children to appreciate and understand the significance of bees in our world.

Price: £12.58
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 258 Ratings
19. The Thing about Bees: A Love Letter by Shabazz Larkin
The Thing about Bees: A Love Letter by Shabazz Larkin is a heartfelt tribute to the essential role bees play in our lives, beautifully encapsulated in a father’s love poem to his two sons. Through Norman Rockwell-inspired illustrations and lyrical prose, Larkin explores the quirks of bees—from their occasional rudeness to their indispensable role in pollinating the foods we cherish, like strawberries and avocados. This picture book not only educates children aged 8 to 12 about different bee species and how to respect them but also emphasizes the importance of understanding and protecting these vital pollinators. Ideal for sparking curiosity about nature and fostering appreciation for the interconnectedness of our ecosystem.

Price: £20.87
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 168 Ratings
20. Kaia and the Bees by Maribeth Boelts
Kaia and the Bees by Maribeth Boelts tells the story of Kaia, a girl who faces her fear of bees when thousands of them move onto her roof where her dad keeps them as a beekeeper. Despite her bravery in other aspects of life, Kaia is terrified of bees until she learns about their vital role in the world. Against a sunny city backdrop, author Maribeth Boelts and illustrator Angela Dominguez weave a tale of courage and empathy, highlighting Kaia’s journey to understand and befriend her tiny insect neighbours. This charming picture book, perfect for story time, delivers a heartfelt message about overcoming fears and appreciating the importance of bees in our ecosystem. Recommended for children aged 4 to 6 years, it blends relatability with educational value in a beautifully illustrated narrative.

Price: £7.55
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 48 Ratings
21. When the Bees Buzzed Off! by Lula Bell
When the Bees Buzzed Off! by Lula Bell is a delightful picture book that takes young readers on an exciting adventure when the bees disappear, leaving the minibeasts in a sticky situation. With interactive flaps, fascinating facts, and humorous moments scattered throughout, this book encourages children aged 3 to 6 to ponder environmental issues and discover the wonders of the natural world. Illustrator Stephen Bennett’s vibrant artwork brings the outdoor escapade to life, making it an engaging read-aloud experience for parents and teachers alike. Ideal for sparking curiosity about bees and their crucial role in pollination, this book blends entertainment with valuable educational content.

Price: £26.47
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 9 Ratings
22. A Bear’s Guide to Beekeeping by Pip Cornell
A Bear’s Guide to Beekeeping by Pip Cornell is a charming spoof beekeeping manual tailored for bears who can’t resist the allure of honey. Packed with whimsical advice on creating a tiny crown for your queen bee and caring for your buzzing companions, this book promises to turn any bear into a beekeeping enthusiast. Debut author Pip Cornell and illustrator Alex G Griffiths infuse the pages with humour and warmth, making it a delightful read for children aged 3 to 5 years. Ideal for sparking imagination and laughter, this playful picture book is sure to entertain young readers while imparting a gentle lesson on the wonders of nature.

Price: £7.35
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 6 Ratings
23. You Are a Honey Bee! by Laurie Ann Thompson
You Are a Honey Bee! by Laurie Ann Thompson is a delightful introduction to the daily life of bees, offering young readers aged 2 to 5 an engaging glimpse into their busy world. From cleaning their rooms to feeding baby bees and constructing hives, children will discover the fascinating tasks bees undertake from birth to adulthood. This charming picture book, part of the Meet Your World series, blends playful storytelling with informative content, encouraging readers to connect with the natural world around them in rural, suburban, and urban settings across North America. With vibrant illustrations and interactive elements that mirror animal behaviours, this book not only entertains but also educates, making it an ideal addition to any child’s library.

Price: £16.10
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 154 Ratings
24. Beehive by Jorey Hurley
Beehive by acclaimed author Jorey Hurley is a striking and educational picture book that beautifully illustrates the process of bees making and storing honey. Known for her vivid illustrations, Hurley captures the cycle of bee activity with minimal text, making it accessible and engaging for young readers aged 3 to 7. This bold and graphic book not only showcases the intricate steps involved in honey production but also includes informative backmatter that delves deeper into the natural process. Ideal for introducing children to the wonders of bees and their important role in our ecosystem, Beehive combines simplicity with depth, making it a captivating read for both home and classroom settings.

Price: £15.22
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 12 Ratings
25. Please Please The Bees by Gerald Kelley
In Please Please The Bees by Gerald Kelley, Benedict the bear finds his sweet routine disrupted when the bees, his honey suppliers, go on strike. Accustomed to their daily gift of honey, Benedict learns a valuable lesson about the importance of listening to and caring for these vital insects. Through charming illustrations and a heartwarming narrative, young readers aged 5 to 6 are introduced to the concept of environmental stewardship and the symbiotic relationship between humans and bees. As Benedict strives to become a better beekeeper, this delightful picture book encourages children to appreciate the bees’ essential role in our ecosystem while teaching the rewards of kindness and responsibility.

Price: £7.35
Rating: 5 out of 5
Popularity: 3 Ratings
26. Bruno the Beekeeper: A Honey Primer by Aneta Frantiska Holasová
Bruno the Beekeeper: A Honey Primer by Aneta Frantiska Holasová invites readers on a seasonal journey with Bruno, a bear who tends to his bee hives while exploring the life cycle and ecology of bees. This beautifully illustrated picture book, translated from Czech, offers a comprehensive guide to beekeeping for families considering the hobby or for curious minds eager to understand how bees produce honey. Through glowing, honey-hued illustrations and accessible text, young readers aged 7 to 10 learn about hive maintenance, honey harvesting, and the vital roles bees play in pollination. Complete with charming folk-style artwork that captures the essence of rural life and delightful details like Grandma’s honey-gingerbread cookie recipe, this book is a delightful ode to sustainability and the marvels of nature, perfect for fostering a love of bees and their environment.

Price: £18.44
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 32 Ratings
27. If Bees Disappeared by Lily Williams
If Bees Disappeared by Lily Williams is a thought-provoking addition to her acclaimed If Animals Disappeared Series, envisioning a world without bees and its profound consequences. Set amidst the rolling hills of Kent, England, Williams paints a vivid picture of the intricate roles bees play in our ecosystem. From their vital role in pollination to the threats they face from disease, pesticides, and habitat loss, this poignant book emphasises the critical importance of bees. Through evocative illustrations and accessible language, Williams explores how the disappearance of bees would impact not only their immediate environment but also the broader interconnected web of life on Earth. Ideal for young readers aged 4 to 8, this beautifully crafted book serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder of why we must protect and cherish our pollinator friends.

Price: £15.04
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 28 Ratings
28. Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera by Candace Fleming
Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera by Candace Fleming invites young readers to soar alongside Apis, a diligent honeybee, as she navigates the intricacies of her busy life cycle. From collecting nectar to nurturing her queen and defending the hive, Fleming’s lyrical prose captures the marvels of Apis Mellifera’s world. Paired with Eric Rohmann’s stunning illustrations that vividly depict the bee’s journey, this book is a visual and narrative delight. Perfect for children aged 4 to 7, it offers a captivating introduction to the essential role honeybees play in our ecosystem, making it an ideal addition to any young naturalist’s bookshelf.

Price: £10.95
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 305 Ratings
29. It Starts with a Bee by Words & Pictures
It Starts with a Bee by Words & Pictures is a captivating journey through the seasons, guided by the industrious bee as it pollinates a vibrant wild garden. This beautifully illustrated picture book weaves a lyrical poem across its pages, celebrating the symbiotic relationship between bees and their floral environment. As Winter gives way to Spring, and Summer to Autumn, readers witness the garden’s transformation into a bustling habitat teeming with life, where bees, worms, beetles, spiders, and mice all find their place. The foldout illustrations add a magical dimension, immersing young readers in the bee’s world amidst blooming flowers and lush greenery. Ideal for ages 6 to 9, this enchanting tale not only entertains but also educates, offering a gentle introduction to the vital role bees play in nature’s intricate cycle.

Price: £10.99
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Popularity: 17 Ratings
30. Bea’s Bees by Ellie Peterson Katherine Pryor
Bea’s Bees by Ellie Peterson and Katherine Pryor invites young readers on a captivating journey with Beatrix, a spirited girl who stumbles upon a bustling bumblebee nest on her way home from school. Drawn into their vibrant world, Beatrix becomes deeply attached to her buzzing friends. However, when the bees suddenly disappear, she embarks on a determined quest to bring them back. Through the school library, Bea immerses herself in learning about bumblebees, their crucial role in our ecosystem, and the importance of pollinator gardens. This beautifully illustrated book not only educates children about bees and their habitats but also empowers them to take action. With a flower identification guide and practical tips for creating bee-friendly environments, Bea’s Bees encourages young environmentalists to join the mission of saving our essential pollinators. Perfect for children aged baby to 6 years, this story is both engaging and educational, fostering a love for nature and conservation from an early age.

Price: £12.91
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 47 Ratings
31. Honeybee Rescue: A Backyard Drama by Loree Burns
Honeybee Rescue: A Backyard Drama by Loree Burns offers young readers an immersive journey into the world of honeybee rescue through the captivating lens of Mr. Nelson, a dedicated honeybee rescuer. In this engaging addition to the Scientists in the Field series, readers follow Mr. Nelson’s expert efforts to safely relocate a colony of bees from Mr. Connery’s barn back to a hive using a vacuum. Vivid photographs accompany the narrative, vividly illustrating Mr. Nelson’s careful process and highlighting the importance of bee conservation. Ideal for readers aged 5 to 8 years, this book not only educates about bee rescue techniques but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the crucial role bees play in our ecosystem.

Price: £13.09
Rating: 5 out of 5
Popularity: 4 Ratings
32. Little Bee’s Flower by Jacob Souva
Little Bee’s Flower by Jacob Souva is a heartwarming picture book that captures the essence of courage, adventure, and the importance of seeking help when needed. Featuring textured nature illustrations and gentle tones that perfectly complement Little Bee’s determined journey, Souva’s storytelling resonates with sincerity and humour. As Little Bee embarks on her very first mission to find a flower, readers are drawn into her quest to discover what a flower looks, smells, and tastes like. This charming tale not only encourages young readers aged 4 to 7 years to explore their own courage but also highlights the power of friendship and support along the way.

Price: £13.92
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 14 Ratings
Share Your Favorite Picture Book About Bees
As we wrap up our exploration of the 32 Picture Books About Bees, we hope you’ve enjoyed diving into the diverse world of these buzzy insects through enchanting illustrations and captivating stories. Whether you’re intrigued by the educational journey of honey-making or charmed by the heartwarming tales of bee characters, these books have illuminated the vital role bees play in our ecosystem.
Which book resonated most with you, or perhaps you have a favourite bee-themed story to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Comments loading...