Just So Stories

Walker Books Australia

February 2024

ISBN13:9781760655228

Australia RRP:$26.99

New Zealand RRP:$28.99

Given it’s World Bee Day, it seems the right time to finally get to this one. I’m happy to say that Megan Daley and I go back quite a long way, and though we don’t often physically cross paths, we have some shared experiences that certainly gave us connection.

This is a charming book which reflects Megan’s long interest in environmentalism and self-sufficiency…. and bee-keeping. The latter because, as it happens, she has a personal apiarist at her side these days, although she also had a grandfather who first encouraged her interest.

Her work at her schools has not only involved her passion for her library and kids’ lit, but this extension into other nature-based projects. So this story, centred on a school’s Nature Club project into keeping native stingless bees, has its roots in real life, and many of the characters and incidents reflect this.

Readers will enjoy both the narrative and the factual information, and hopefully, many will be inspired to forge ahead with forming their own nature clubs. I remember well The Kid’s mum in primary school undertaking bee-keeping with a favourite teacher, and going on to achieving her Brownie badge for apiary. She loved every moment of it and we loved the honey she brought home.

We know how important bees are to the entire global ecosystem and we also know that our native bees must not only be protected but encouraged. Why not set up your own bee motel? These are now so readily available? This is a terrific addition to any collection.

Megan has done an excellent job with the narrative and Max Hamilton’s illos are gorgeous. Happy World Bee Day everybody! I give it a 5 🐝🐝🐝🐝🐝 rating!