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Book Review of The Death of Bees: A Novel

The Death of Bees: A Novel
AZmom875 avatar reviewed on + 624 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1


If you are looking for a sweet coming of age book, then pass this one by. This book is dark and grim and gritty. That doesnt mean this book isnt a well written book. It just isnt for the faint of heart. Some of the subject matter is uncomfortable. Marnie is only 15 and is dealing drugs, and using drugs, and drinking, and having sex with both boys her ages and adults. Nelly seems to have a form of autism and doesnt want to grow up or face reality. Lenny was arrested for paying a male prostitute for sex in a park. Turns out that man was only a boy. So Lenny gets labeled a sex offender, which means he really should not be around the young girls.


There are so many other unlikeable characters in the story. A long lost grandpa, a few drug dealers, the boy prostitute in the park and a dog named Bobby, who keeps digging in the girls garden.

I would not pass this book by if you are looking for something rare. This is a rare book told in short chapters by Nelly, Lenny and Marnie. Very seldom do you get confused on which person is talking. They voices are distinct.