Buzzy was a busy bee, a friendly, little honey bee.
From Miss USA 2010, Rima Fakih Slaiby, and debut author Theresa AlHayek comes a story about a brave little bee who never gives up.
Buzzy Bee is excited to participate in the Colony's upcoming race. There's just one he isn't very fast! But Buzzy is not a quitter, so he practices tirelessly to get better and better. But on the day of the race, things don't exactly go as expected. Can Buzzy save the day and win the race?
Told in beautiful bouncing rhyme with gorgeous illustrations by Angela Li, Brave Buzzy Bee provides a lesson for young readers about the true meaning of bravery, featuring a character that audiences can't help but fall in love with.
As soon as I saw that adorable little bee with the big glasses on the cover, I knew I wanted to read Brave Buzzy Bee by Rima Fakih Slaiby & Theresa AlHayek. How can you not fall in love with that cute face? In fact, all of Angela Li’s illustrations in this book made me smile. And the story itself is just as endearing, with more than one sweet message that kids can take away.
Buzzy Bee wants so badly to win the Golden Cup in The Colony Race, like his dad and grandpa and cousins before him. He starts training with his best friend Bumble but becomes easily discouraged when he’s not as fast as he wants to be. His parents lovingly encourage him to be patient, remind him that effort pays off over time, and teach him that you can always try again, even when things don’t go your way. And all of those messages are good for kiddos to learn… but it’s the lesson that Buzzy learns on race day that I felt was the best: winning isn’t as important, or courageous, as being a good friend is.
Bottom Line: Brave Buzzy Bee by Rima Fakih Slaiby & Theresa AlHayek tells a sweet story of a young bee with big dreams and a big heart. Slaiby & AlHayek’s text is easy to follow (though the rhyming meter is a bit chunky), the scenario is relatable to elementary ages, and so are the lessons conveyed. Li’s bright, colorful, and ADORABLE illustrations add humor and emotion to the text rather than just parroting it, which is a trait I always hope to find in picture books, and I fell in love with Buzzy Bee because of it. A fun addition to a home or classroom library!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“I like that he made a good choice. I like bees but I don’t like that they sting you, but I do like that when they sting you they die. But then when they die I miss them sometimes. I got stung in Tennessee. 🐝 “ - Lucas
⚫️Brave Buzzy Bee by Rima Fakih Slaiby and Theresa AlHayek is a delightful and uplifting story that teaches children the power of determination, hard work, and true bravery. Through engaging rhymes and stunning illustrations by Angela Li, young readers follow Buzzy Bee as he prepares for the big race despite not being the fastest in the colony.
⚫️What makes this book truly special is its inspiring message: success isn’t just about winning, but about never giving up and finding courage in unexpected moments. Buzzy’s journey reminds children that effort and perseverance matter more than the outcome, and sometimes, the real victory lies in how we handle challenges along the way.
⚫️The rhythmic storytelling makes it a joy to read aloud, and the vibrant, expressive artwork brings Buzzy and his world to life. Perfect for bedtime or classroom storytime, Brave Buzzy Bee is a must-read for parents and educators looking to instill confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset in young readers. A wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf!
Buzzy Bee is so excited to participate in The Colony Race this year and win the Golden Cup, just like his father and grandfather did before him. The only problem is, he isn't the fastest bee around. Even though he feels down about this, his parents encourage him to keep trying because tomorrow is another day. He tries to stay positive and he's excited that his friend Bumble is in the race with him.
BRAVE BUZZY BEE teaches children the importance of friendship and how winning isn't everything. The illustrations are bright and bold with the golden yellow of the bees. I love the rhyming scheme which makes the words flow smoothly, adding character to the story. I also love how supportive the parents are because it's importance for parents to build their children up no matter what place they come in a race.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to children aged four and older who like bees, are competitive, and to teach them good values in life. BRAVE BUZZY BEE is an endearing and uplifting children's picture book.
Absolutely wonderful! The story is sweet, engaging, and full of heart, with gorgeous illustrations that keep kids glued to every page. It’s rare to find a book that’s this fun to read aloud and still carries such a lovely message. A new family favorite!
Sweet, cute, and gentle little story about a bee who is determined to win the big bee race and learns an important lesson about sportsmanship and what's truly important.