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Book Review of The Death of Bees: A Novel

The Death of Bees: A Novel
reviewed on + 273 more book reviews


Moving story of two sisters who discover their dead parents in their home. Tragic story of abandonment, abuse, and strength. They bury their parents in the backyard and hope to continue living in the home together. Oldest is 15 (going on 30) and younger sister is 12 with personality issues. They are finally rescued by their elderly neighbor, a gentleman with his own issues. But they survive together and help each other mend. Along comes maternal grandfather, looking for this daughter he abandoned too many years ago. Such a vicious cycle!
Story is written in voice of eldest Marnie, youngest Nelly, and neighbor Lennie. No spoilers here but there is finally peace at the end.

I almost gave up reading this as it takes place is housing district in Glasgow so there are many slang terms I had to look up to understand. Plus the story tells of 15 yo having sex with older men, doing/selling drugs, drinking, etc. Just not pleasant, but necessary part of story. I'm quite glad I finished reading as it turned out to be a wonderful story.