Bizzy Mizz Lizzie

Shannon (Duck on a Tractor) humorously advocates slowing down to appreciate the small things in life in this bee-themed fable. Bizzy Mizz Lizzie, an overscheduled bee, is “just about the busiest, buzziest bee anyone had ever seen.” She earns solid Bs (“That’s better than straight A’s if you’re in Bee School”), takes a variety of classes (dance, acting, art, and more), and is a member of the Junior Honey Scouts, among other activities. Lizzie is thrilled when she lands a spot competing in an upcoming spelling contest (humorously, or perhaps to avoid confusion, it’s not referred to as a bee), but her intensive studying and lack of sleep results in her missing her much-awaited chance to meet the Queen at the competition. In the end, Lizzie takes direction from her best friend, Lazy Mizz Daisy, who knows how to appreciate lying in the flowers, reading a book, and talking her fellow bees. Shannon’s excited narration and bold bee caricatures befit a heroine who’s always on the move, bringing a jittery energy to the pages. Ages 4–8. [em](Oct.) [/em]