Brave Buzzy Bee

December 1, 2024
A honeybee learns that sometimes lending a helping hand matters more than winning a race. Buzzy Bee, who lives in a hive on Nectar Drive with his family, eagerly awaits the annual bee race. But he feels intimidated--previous family members have won the race in the past, and though he's trained hard, he isn't sure he can measure up. His parents assure him that he's improving slowly and urge him to be patient. Their encouragement works, and he performs well during the race. His best friend, Bumble Bee, takes the lead; Buzzy isn't far behind. But when Bumble takes a tumble as both approach the finish line, Buzzy must make a hard choice--win or help a pal? The chunky, child-friendly artwork features heavily anthropomorphized bees with yellow bodies and brown stripes; some sport hats, bows, or big googly glasses, effectively capturing their different personalities. Sometimes-strained rhyming lines and delightfully amusing bee-related puns add to this relatable story's appeal, helping the positive message about friendship and doing the right thing go down smoothly. Mama and Daddy Bee tell Buzzy that each day offers a fresh opportunity to try again, even when things don't go as expected--a message that will encourage resilience and steer readers away from a focus on winning at all costs. A sweet reminder that BEE-lieving in oneself doesn't necessarily mean coming in first place.(Picture book. 5-7)

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