The History of Bees, Maja Lunde

The History of Bees by Maja Lunde is a remarkable novel that weaves together deeply human stories with the ecological crisis of our time.

This is the kind of book that has resonated with readers around the world, becoming an international bestseller and inspiring important conversations about our relationship with nature.

Blending science, history, and personal drama, Lunde offers a moving exploration of the bond between humans and bees, and of the vital role they play in the ecosystem. The novel skillfully brings together three interconnected narratives, set across different periods and places:

William Savage (1851, England): William, a melancholic biologist and seed merchant, struggles with personal failure and finds new purpose when he designs a revolutionary beehive. His story offers a window into early beekeeping practices in the nineteenth century.

George Savage (2007, Ohio, USA): A contemporary beekeeper, George faces the alarming phenomenon of colony collapse disorder, which threatens both his livelihood and the global food chain. His complicated relationship with his son Tom adds a deeply personal layer to this part of the novel.

Tao (2098, Sichuan, China): In a dystopian future where bees have disappeared, Tao works as a human pollinator, painstakingly fertilizing fruit trees by hand. Her story reveals the devastating consequences of ecological imbalance and follows her search for hope after a tragic event involving her son.

The History of Bees has been translated into more than 40 languages and encourages readers to reflect on their environmental choices and the legacy they leave behind.

Maja Lunde’s ability to capture the essence of our relationship with nature makes this novel a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of our planet.

With its deeply moving message and unforgettable characters, the book leaves a lasting impression on both the heart and the mind.