Book Review: He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox
When I first spotted He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox, the enchanting title instantly drew me in. As a lover of nature and all things literary, I was intrigued by the promise of bees—and the metaphorical sweetness they represent. Little did I know that this beautifully woven tale would ultimately be about much more than just honey; it serves as a poignant exploration of family secrets, personal growth, and the complexity of human connections.
The narrative centers around two main characters, Beckett Walsh and Callie Peterson, whose lives unexpectedly intertwine after the death of Beckett’s father. Beckett, a passionate beekeeper, finds herself grappling not just with her grief but also with the shocking revelation that she has a co-owner in her family business: Callie, a woman whose inclusion seems baffling at first. Callie’s own troubles—a struggling business and a tumultuous relationship with her mother—add layers of tension and yearning for stability, which makes it hard for her to grasp her new inheritance. The story artfully navigates their divergent paths as they confront their pasts and build a future that might just be sweeter together.
Cox’s writing style is strikingly evocative, capturing the intimate details of the characters’ lives and emotions. The pacing allows readers to immerse themselves in Beckett and Callie’s inner worlds, making their struggles feel incredibly relatable. Each chapter unfurls with a gentle rhythm, aided by beautifully descriptive passages about beekeeping that really bring the apiary to life. The way Cox ties in the symbolism of bees—community, resilience, and connection—is nothing short of brilliant. As one reviewer noted, “Just as bees rally together to support a queen in a hive, two women with painful upbringings learn to accept the love of others,” and I found this sentiment guiding my own understanding of the characters’ journeys.
There are moments in the book that strike a chord long after you’ve turned the last page. For instance, when Beckett reflects on her father’s decision to involve Callie, I felt a sharp pang of empathy; it raises questions about trust and the choices we make for those we love. The depth of character development is truly commendable—readers will likely see pieces of themselves in both Beckett and Callie as they face their conflicts and find connection in unexpected places.
Cox’s command over emotional storytelling strikes a perfect balance; the narrative is rich with themes of forgiveness, resilience, and the complexities of familial love. The portrayal of mental health issues and substance abuse is handled with sensitivity and nuance, making these topics accessible without feeling preachy.
In conclusion, He Should Have Told the Bees is a heartfelt read for anyone seeking a story that resonates on multiple levels. Whether you’re drawn in by the beekeeping elements, the exploration of family dynamics, or the quest for identity, there’s something here for everyone. This book will stay with me, not just for its engaging plot but also for the lessons it imparts—about connection, healing, and the importance of sharing our stories. I highly recommend it to fans of character-driven narratives and anyone looking for a poignant and thought-provoking read.