Review of THE MUSIC OF BEES by Eileen Garvin

 3.5 Stars

This is a charming but predictable story, set in Hood River, Oregon, about three lonely people, each struggling with loss and fears.

Alice Holtzman, 44, is a hobbyist apiarist who wants to be an orchardist but works for the county’s planning department.  Grieving the death of her husband, she seeks solace in looking after her bees.  18-year-old Jake Stevenson is a paraplegic, trying to figure out his life now that he is confined to a wheelchair.  Harry Stokes, 24, lives with a great-uncle in a dilapidated trailer.  His criminal record because of a stupid decision holds him back, as does his debilitating social anxiety.  The three are brought together and, as expected, a bond forms and they are able to overcome fears and sorrow and work towards fulfilling new dreams.

Though of different ages, the three share similarities.  They have all been damaged physically and/or emotionally.  Each is a loner, though sometimes more by choice.  Life has not worked out as they hoped so they feel adrift and lack a sense of belonging and stability.  By the end of the novel, all have experienced some personal growth:  overcome fears, move away from self-imposed isolation, and start over with new dreams to pursue. 

Included in the narrative is social and political commentary.  Pesticide usage is criticized because of its role in the decimation of bees that are crucial in pollination.  The plight of Mexican migrant workers and immigrants is briefly addressed.  In addition, each chapter begins with information about bees in the form of quotations from the writing of L. L. Langstroth, an apiarist often considered the father of American beekeeping.

The book also explores families.  The message is that chosen families, formed outside traditional family structures, can sometimes be more nurturing and supportive.  Jake’s biological father, for instance, provides no encouragement to his son.  It is the bond formed by the trio that helps all of them to find the courage to move on. 

This book is a comfortable, comforting read.  I knew from the beginning that the three would prevail over obstacles, none of which are life-threatening.  Solutions are obvious.  In their working together for the good of the whole, the bees serve as a metaphor for what the three need to do:  rely on each other and work together.  Sometimes problems are solved rather easily.  Just as Alice’s financial concerns are removed, Harry has no worries about the $500 he needs.   Secondary characters appear at convenient times to take care of issues.  The happy ending is predictable. 

This is not a bad novel; it’s just a lighter read than my normal fare.  I prefer something more substantial, but anyone wanting a good lighthearted read will enjoy it.