Little Bee and the Bloom

In Kremer and Hunt’s chipper picture book, rigid rhymes and bubbly artwork give a fanciful backstory to the mutualistic relationship between bees and flowers. When Little Bee checks in on a “sour”-looking bloom one morning, the lonely flower explains its mood: “I cannot soar/ or roam like you./ I stay in place/ the whole day/ through.” The helpful insect immediately goes into problem-solving mode, first proposing sharing her wings and then offering to haul the flora’s ​​pollen. After sipping the plant’s energizing nectar, Little Bee sets to work, even getting her hive in on the action. “Pollination is this awesome dance,” the work concludes, encouraging readers: “When you see bees buzzing near,/ don’t forget to smile and cheer!” Bright-eyed figural characterizations of the flower and bees lend a retro vibe to this playful view of the pollination cycle. Human figures are portrayed with various skin tones. Bee-friendly actions and a glossary conclude. Ages up to 5. (Sept.)