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352
Novel • Fiction
Hood River, Oregon • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
The Music of Bees by Eileen Garvin is set in Hood River, Oregon, in 2014, and follows Alice, a widowed beekeeper with anxiety; Jake, an 18-year-old dealing with depression and paralysis after an accident; and Harry, a young man with social anxiety. Their lives intertwine when Jake and Harry work at Alice’s farm, improving their mental health while combating a pesticide company endangering the local bee population. The novel references mental health conditions and suicidal ideation.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Contemplative
Hopeful
Melancholic
27,950 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Eileen Garvin’s The Music of Bees has garnered positive reviews for its heartwarming narrative, rich character development, and exploration of healing and community. Critics appreciate the portrayal of beekeeping and environmental themes. However, some found the pacing slow and certain plot elements predictable. Overall, it’s recommended for readers seeking an uplifting story.
The ideal reader for Eileen Garvin’s The Music of Bees is a fan of character-driven, heartwarming stories that delve into themes of community, healing, and personal growth. Similar to those who enjoyed Fredrik Backman’s A Man Called Ove and Rachel Joyce's The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, they appreciate narratives about unlikely friendships and second chances.
27,950 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jake Stevenson
An 18-year-old who is adjusting to life in a wheelchair after a recent accident; he discovers a passion for beekeeping that helps him overcome his depression.
Harry Stokes
A 24-year-old with social anxiety and a criminal past who gains confidence and a sense of belonging through work at a farm and new friendships.
Ron Ryan
Alice's brother-in-law and the sheriff of Hood River County, who is estranged from Alice over his brother’s death.
Evangelina Ryan
Ron Ryan’s wife who owns a Mexican restaurant and faces accusations regarding her employment practices.
Ronnie Ryan
Ron and Evangelina’s son, a newly appointed sheriff’s deputy known for his lack of confidence and occasional mistakes.
Amri
Jake’s romantic interest whom he meets at the beach; she becomes interested in learning about beekeeping.
Bill Chenowith
The director of the Hood County Planning Department known for his lack of work ethic and involvement in embezzling funds.
Rich Carlson
A finance manager in Hood County, disliked for his unpleasant demeanor and constant pressure on subordinates.
Nancy Gates
Alice’s colleague known for spreading gossip and being promoted over Alice, contributing to office politics.
Debi Jeffreys
The office manager in the county’s planning department who discovers the financial misconduct of Bill Chenowith.
Stan Hinatsu
An environmentalist and director of the Hood River Watershed Alliance who is dedicated to protecting local ecosystems.
Fred Paris
A third-generation orchardist resistant to environmental movements and supportive of using controversial pesticides.
Ed and Tansy Stevenson
Jake’s parents, with Tansy being a protective mother who supports Jake’s independence, while Ed is an abusive father who opposes Jake’s choices.
Noah Katz and Celia
Jake’s friends who assist him with tasks on the farm, with Celia also teaching Jake how to cook.
Dr. Zimmerman
Alice’s therapist who assists her in managing anxiety and eventually concludes that Alice doesn’t need further treatment.
Yogi
A skilled kiteboarder who befriends Harry and plays a role in boosting Harry’s self-confidence.
352
Novel • Fiction
Hood River, Oregon • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
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