Keeping Bees

by John Vivian, Liz Buell (Illustrator)

Describes basic beekeeping equipment, shows how to build a beehive, and provides information on installing, handling, and caring for bees and harvesting honey

240 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1985

Reviews

[Lesli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book that started me beekeeping. I read it over the winter, and was buying equipment by March. Vivian mixes practical information with the poetic descriptions of a man obviously enthralled by his bees.

The book was written at the very start of the varroa invasion, so there is no particular advice about how to deal with them, or current health issues. Still, he covers the basics and beyond (making a foundation press, dipping and molding candles, etc.) thoroughly, and in a thoroughly enjoyable style.

[Nathan Brant · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great bee book - it's a bit dated, but so much of the info is timeless. A great read for novice beekeepers.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another bee book given us last Christmas. Not read it cover to cover, but just to dip in where I please. Already interested by the AHB section at the back. As I was reading from the back forwards it was a while before I realised this is not a desease but the Africanised Honey Bee which does not get covered by local books here. This was very refreshing to read as it gave an American slant on a lot of things and was a very clear and engaging book.

[Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

With any skill or knowledge set, certain materials and resources become fundamental for anyone interested in learning how to pursue that skill or profession, especially at the early stages, and thereby become timeless in that field. John Vivian's Keeping Bees will become, I project, one such example.

Even though this book was written in 1986, the information and overview for beekeeping is valuable. He covers basic categories such as planning your apiary, choosing and buying equipment, bee lining, and disease prevention. He also offers a seasons-based approach to beekeeping throughout the year, from spring management to fall harvest to the "slow months". He also describes the process of introducing new bees, such as those purchased as a "nuc" (nuclear colony).

As a demonstration of his knowledge about bees, he writes about the problem of mites, which was not on the radar of most beekeepers or bee specialists in the 1980s. Of course, there is now much more current information and literature available.

Keeping Bees is a good starting point for anyone interested in becoming a beekeeper or at least having a basic overview of bees, their social structure, and the threats and challenges faced by these wonderful animals and their guardians.

[Ed Rowell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful for getting acquainted with the basics of beekeeping.

[John Bignell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book at the library, but think I am going to need to have it in my collection. So many design ideas and plans.

[Mckinley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although old now, still a great resource: covers all the necessary information, lights stuff to make from the bees' production from honey to candles. Also how beekeeping becomes a part of your life.

[Rob Tesselaar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of great information, diagrams and directions could be clearer.