Frank Mortimer Books

A fascinating foray into the obsessions, friendships, scientific curiosity, misfortunes, and rewards of suburban beekeeping unfolds through the eyes of Master Beekeeper Frank Mortimer. He invites readers on an eye-opening journey into the secret world of bees and the unique lives of his fellow beekeepers. Among them is the Badger, who introduces Frank to bees; Rusty, a one-eyed bee sting therapist convinced honey will be the future currency; Scooby, who finds meditative highs in his vibrantly painted hives; and the Berserker, a honeybee hitman who teaches Frank a rafter-raising lesson on dealing with an evil queen. Frank also encounters the Surgeons, precise and protected; the Cowboys, improvisational and unguarded; and the Poseurs, ex-corporate types who are ill-prepared for the realities of beekeeping. Through these diverse characters, Frank uncovers the centuries-old history of the trade, the practicality of maintaining it, and the complex lives of bees, including how they communicate and socialize. He also addresses the threats they face, from anti-apiarist extremists to the Varroa Destructor mite. With a mix of humor and information, Frank delivers an engaging narrative about the symbiotic relationship between flowers and bees, and the beekeepers dedicated to preserving these invaluable creatures.