Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees - Thor Hanson

Written by Thor Hanson
Read by Brant Pope
Format: MP3
Bitrate: 64 Kbps
Unabridged

· Length: 7 hrs and 5 mins
· Release date: 09-18-18
· Publisher: Audible Studios

Bees are like oxygen: ubiquitous, essential, and, for the most part, unseen. While we might overlook them, they lie at the heart of relationships that bind the human and natural worlds.

In Buzz, the beloved Thor Hanson takes us on a journey that begins 125 million years ago, when a wasp first dared to feed pollen to its young. From honeybees and bumbles to lesser-known diggers, miners, leafcutters, and masons, bees have long been central to our harvests, our mythologies, and our very existence. They’ve given us sweetness and light, the beauty of flowers, and as much as a third of the foodstuffs we eat. And, alarmingly, they are at risk of disappearing.

As informative and enchanting as the waggle dance of a honeybee, Buzz shows us why all bees are wonders to celebrate and protect. Read this book and you’ll never overlook them again.

Library Journal—“Lively and entertaining, Hanson’s work introduces the world of bees–all bees, not just honeybees, which the author describes as “the chickens of the bee world.” (Wild bees are far more common.) Bees have long held fascination for humans; they are mentioned in Shakespeare and found in primitive rock art. Beekeeping began in the Neolithic era, while mead, which is made from honey, is one of the oldest forms of alcoholic beverages. Hanson discusses what is known about bee evolution. …. The author also details Colony Collapse Disorder, stating that approximately 40 percent of bee species are in decline, and provides suggestions for farmers and home gardeners in supporting bee populations. VERDICT Of interest to farmers, gardeners, ecologists, and anyone concerned about bees and their impact on our food supply.”—