Large format, instructive book, with about two illustrative photographs on each page. - 1/2 off star for calling propolis "bee glue". Starts the year at earliest spring check of the hives and ends again in the middle of a Minnesota winter, making sure the weather hasn't damaged the hives or their tar paper covering and exposed the bees to the elements. A great introduction for a starting beekeeper who knows next to nothing about the subject and a good book for kids. ( )