For the Bees
A Handbook for Happy Beekeeping
Tara Dawn Chapman author Caroline Brown illustrator
Format:Paperback
Publisher:University of Texas Press
Published:5th Nov '24
Should be back in stock very soon

This guide offers insights for new beekeepers, covering essential topics from bee biology to honey harvesting in For the Bees.
A handbook for what to expect during the first year of beekeeping and beyond, For the Bees serves as an essential guide for both novice and experienced beekeepers alike. The journey to becoming a successful beekeeper starts with a thorough understanding of the bees themselves. Tara Chapman, founder and operator of Austin’s Two Hives Honey, provides a holistic and practical approach, beginning with insights into honey bee biology, nutrition, and the fascinating architecture of beehives. For example, have you ever wondered why honeycombs are made up of tiny hexagons? This scientific knowledge is crucial for beekeepers to identify their colonies' needs, make informed decisions in unexpected situations, and adjust their care routines as conditions change.
In addition to foundational concepts, For the Bees delves into more advanced topics, equipping aspiring beekeepers with the skills to identify pests and diseases, manage swarms, and, of course, harvest the delightful honey produced by their bees. Chapman’s engaging storytelling and relatable experiences in the bee yard bring the subject matter to life, making it accessible and enjoyable for readers.
With vibrant illustrations and practical visual aids, For the Bees captures the charm and joy of beekeeping. It emphasizes the importance of these essential insects and encourages readers to embark on their own beekeeping adventures with confidence and enthusiasm.
While some authors write a book that is a checklist to follow, from their experience following someone else’s checklist, Tara has written a book that will help beekeepers make decisions from a deeper understanding of the bees themselves...For the first half of it, I thought to myself that from now on this book will be my top recommendation to my beginning beekeeping students. By the time I started the second half, I decided that it will be my top recommendation for my intermediate beekeepers, too...Caroline Brown, the illustrator, really outdid herself. The illustrations make written points easy to understand and remember. They have the perfect balance of cuteness and correctness, with some humor. The illustrations are integral to the book...Book lovers will understand when I say that the format, paper quality, colors, layout, and design make it a real pleasure to read. It is listed as a paperback, but the cover isn’t just paper. You could get honey on it, and wash it off without damaging it — not that there is ever out-of-place honey in a beekeeper’s house! * American Bee Journal *
[This book offers] practical explanations for anyone starting their beekeeping journey. * Mother Earth News Podcast *
ISBN: 9781477329511
Dimensions: 254mm x 178mm x 24mm
Weight: 880g
272 pages