Title: The Music of Bees
Author: Eileen Garvin
Reviewed by: Chloe Fuksa, Putnam Six Bookstore
The Music of Bees is the recently released debut novel by author Eileen Garvin. Set in rural Oregon, it is the heart-warming story of three strangers – Alice, Jake, and Harry – as they work together on Alice’s beekeeping farm, and in the process, each finds healing for their different struggles.
For Alice, she has just lost her husband and is feeling stuck at her day job. Jake, recently paralyzed in a freak accident, has graduated from high school and is struggling to find purpose and direction in his life. And Harry, previously arrested for a foolish mistake, has severe social anxiety but needs a job and a second chance.
The two young men don’t know much about beekeeping, but Alice hires them anyway and they each end up bringing their expertise to the farm. Jake’s enthusiasm makes him a quick learner and his musical talent allows him to hear the specific key made by queen bees. Harry may be shy but he uses his construction talent to build things around the farm to help others.
This novel reads smoothly, almost like a young adult novel, and the characters are very likable. You find yourself rooting for them, and when a pesticide company threatens their hives, you cheer for this trio against the big corporation coming in. Plus, the author herself is a beekeeper, so you learn a great deal about bees from the story.
This book is a feel-good read with a happy ending – a perfect addition to your summer reading list!
Call (580) 297-5089 to order your copy of “The Music of Bees” today!
