Bee & Flea and the Puddle Problem by Anna Humphrey is a delightful chapter book in a series about two insect investigators, Bee and Flea. Written for children ages 6-9 in grades 3 and up, the book introduces readers to STEM content as it follows the two insect friends through an exciting day in their lives. Spirited black and white illustrations bring the text to life as the amusing antics of our insect investigators unfold.
The story line follows the adventures of Flea and Bee as they attend an after-the-rain party, that takes place in a puddle. As the friends enjoy their adventure they meet many animals from a starling, copopod and water flea, to protists like amoebas, paramecium, and diatoms. While Flea joins her underwater friends in various games, a bouquet of bacteria balloons take rookie Bee to the bottom of the pond where she finds a baby water bear under a rotting leaf. As Bee takes care of the baby water bear she realizes that the pond is shrinking and sees an opportunity to shine as an investigator. Bee solves the mystery of the shrinking pond, earns her badge as an official agent, and learns that although puddles disappear after a rain, the living organisms return with the next rain.
The adventure of the two friends is very animated and filled with entertaining experiences. The inclusion of animals like the snail letter carrier, and the mosquito boat master bring an opportunity for humor as well scientific material to the text. A fun quiz at the end of the book about the organisms mentioned in the story allow readers to qualify for a badge as an official agent. A pattern for the badge is provided.
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