Akeem Keeps Bees!: A Close-Up Look at the Honey Makers and Pollinators of Sankofa Farms

This vibrantly illustrated book for kids aged 6 to 10 traces a year in the real-life apiary of Sankofa Farms as a father (the author) teaches his young son, Akeem, the basics of beekeeping. Told from Akeem’s perspective, Akeem Keeps Bees! begins with the arrival and installation of a package of bees and follows the sequence of beekeeping tasks throughout the year, as Akeem and his dad inspect the hive, find the queen, deal with a swarm, harvest honey, and prepare for winter. Along the way, Akeem also learns the special role that the bees play on the farm. Every part of the process is illustrated for young readers, with graphically inspired panels and diagrams. The author, Kamal Bell, is a leading voice among Black farmers educating and inspiring Black youth about farming and beekeeping.