Piotr Socha – författare

How do bees communicate? What does a beekeeper do? Did you know that Napoleon loved bees? Who survived being stung by 2,443 bees? This book answers all these questions and many more, tracking the history of bees from the time of the dinosaurs to their current plight.

Why are trees so important? How many types are there? How do they benefit the environment and wildlife? This book, by the award-winning author Piotr Socha, answers these questions and more, tracking the history of trees from the time of the dinosaurs to the current day.

A deep dive into the history and science of dirt. Millions of people on Earth start their day the same way: we get out of bed, go to the loo and wash ourselves. But this hasn’t always been the standard routine. Ancient Greeks and Romans were happy to splash about in public baths, but by the time the plague struck 14th-century Europe, many people believed that water spread diseases. It was not until the 18th century that Louis Pasteur proved that dangerous germs actually lurk in dirt. Even when hygienic habits began to be taught in schools, lessons were limited to washing faces and hands, because those were the parts that everyone could see. Dive deep into the history and science of dirt, discovering how people around the world (and out in space!) keep themselves and their surroundings free from filth, how our ideas of what’s clean and what’s not have changed and developed over the centuries, and why a little dirt can sometimes be a good thing...

One part science, one part cultural history, and countless parts fascination, Bees: A Honeyed History is a picture book that celebrates the important role that these intriguing insects have played in our ecosystem throughout the ages, and today.  “Goes beyond the scientific (anatomy, pollination, communication, etc.) to include the bee’s place in history and culture . . . Socha has created what is quite possibly the sweetest resource on honey bees around.” ?Booklist (Starred Review)   From Athena to Alexander the Great and from Egypt to Ethiopia, author Piotr Socha explores different methods of beekeeping and uncovers the debt that humans owe this vital species. His beautiful guide for children offers full-color two-page topical entries dominated by large, detailed illustrations with text running along the lower half of the pages. It covers:   Bee bodies and behaviorHive buildingSocial rolesPollinating and honey productionThe relationship between bees and prehistoric people, ancient Greeks, and EgyptiansAnd many other topics Bees are essential to the health of ecosystems around the world and are under threat from changing habitats and manmade challenges. Animal threats to bees are described here, as well as the collapse of bee colonies in the United States in recent years. There are descriptions and details of beekeeping throughout history and today.   With beautifully accessible illustrations depicting everything from bee anatomy to the essentials of honey making, readers will be captivated by the endless wonders of this seemingly small speck of the animal kingdom. For a curious child or a parent who wants to explain the contribution of bees to the world around us, this book is lively, fun, and educational.