Keeping Bees in Towns and Cities

January 1, 2013

Dixon, a professional beekeeper in Soho, London, walks readers through the different types of bee boxes on the market, which species are best for keepers, a bee's life cycle inside a hive, the creatures' mating habits, and which plants stimulate healthy nectar production. Supported by vivid, full-color photographs, the book is rounded out with a section called "Reports from the Field," which includes firsthand accounts from urban and suburban beekeepers all over the world. While Dixon's passion for this contemplative hobby shines through in his prose, the book may not be comprehensive enough for complete beginners. For example, when listing different diseases that affect bees, he tells readers the best time of year to treat them, but, with the exception of the varroa mite, does not disclose how. A comprehensive resource list is included for those hoping to expand their bee education. VERDICT Dixon's descriptions of bee behavior (beehavior?) during each season create a solid overview. A worthy supplement to any beekeeping collection.--Erin Shea, Darien Lib., CT

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