Bee the Change (The Big Idea Gang), written by James Preller, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary:  This series is a simple chapter book about a group of 3rd graders who work together to create change. In this title the kids, Lizzy, Connor, Kym, and Deon have an assignment where they need to teach others about something they can do to make the world better. It began with Kym taking Lizzy to her parent's friends farm where he was going to show them the hives he manages. Once they are hooked on bees, they want others to care about them, also. Thus begins the plan to teach others and create a bee haven at school, starting with the plants in the school garden.

There is back matter on bees after the story as well as a section about writing entitled "Wow Me Tips". This writing section is what captured my 3rd grade teaching teams and got them excited about sharing this title (and the series) with classes next year.

Straight Talk for Librarians:  I loved that it is an easy chapter book that my 2nd-4th graders may find interesting. I loved even more the facts in this title about bees, which are not being supported enough these days. I shared it with my 3rd grade teams in both of buildings as the writing connections at the end are wonderful.

(The book ends with both back matter about bees and notes from their teacher about writing. Teachers at both of my schools love the series for the writing information!)