I'm starting to see a trend in new picture books, they all have centered themes about acceptance and learning to love yourself the way you are. This picture book falls into this category too. The whole idea of a bee seeking friends is obviously unrealistic but I think in this instance the theme was easily conveyed. I loved that the wig was actually a Guinea pig and that the two became best friends. Quick, what’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve heard lately? How about a bee, wearing a toupee, who is mistaken for a child? That makes my recently ridiculous top five. In “Bee-Wigged” Cece Bell (author/illustrator of the “Sock Monkey” titles) provides a fat dollop of silliness sour cream atop a baked potato of truth - that it can be hard to find your niche when you’re different.Jerry Bee does the opposite of fit in. Not only is he a bee (strike one), but he’s also a giant bee (we’ll skip right to “you’re out!”). We’re talking person-sized insect here. When you’re a giant bee out in public, folks tend to avoid you. Or scream and run. One day Jerry finds a wig on the side of the road and decides to try it on. The results are astounding. The disguise works, and people begin to see Jerry as a normal kid. Well, not just normal - exceptional. Everyone loves Jerry. It turns out that he’s funny and artistic and helpful. Jerry Bee is so beloved that he is asked to grand marshall the annual school parade. When our hero’s wig is blown off by a gust of wind, Jerry quickly realizes that his day in the sun may be over. That is, until his wig starts talking. I mentioned ridiculous, right?The bright, unfussy ink and acrylic illustrations pair nicely with the storyline. The goofiness of the plot is mirrored in the stubby, neckless (or should I say neck-free) rendering of the characters.“Bee-Wigged” will check off a number of boxes in your collection:√ Solid read aloud choice√ A good pick for “I’m looking for a funny book” kids√ A “be yourself” book with kid appealA trifecta which makes this one a quality selection.
What do You think about Bee-Wigged (2008)?
Jerry bee tries to change himself to fit in. This book is hilarious and heart-warming!
—Anshuman
