The Honeybee Sorcerer

Snared in the Lair

Illustrated by Justine Chang
Published by Rare Bird Books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

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About The Book

The Honeybee Sorceror: Snared in the Lair is a magical middle-grade eco-adventure that blends fantasy, food, environmental stewardship, and culinary culture into an unforgettable journey to save the world's honeybees before it's too late.

OVERVIEW

When thirteen-year-old twins Anaïs and Dylan Pinkham discover that billions of honeybees are disappearing across the globe, their summer vacation takes an unexpected turn. Recruited by the mysterious sorcerer Quinox, the siblings embark on a globe-spanning culinary scavenger hunt to gather magical ingredients needed to create an elixir capable of saving Earth's most important pollinators.

Armed with their own extraordinary paranormal abilities and guided by food traditions from around the world, Anaïs and Dylan travel through magical landscapes, encounter unforgettable characters, and discover that courage, teamwork, and curiosity may be the most powerful ingredients of all.

Part fantasy adventure, part culinary journey, and part environmental call-to-action, The Honeybee Sorcerer introduces young readers to the vital role bees play in sustaining our food systems while celebrating global cuisine, family, and imagination.

About The Authors

Catharine L. Kaufman is a nationally syndicated food columnist, author, blogger, and culinary educator best known as The Kitchen Shrink. A breast cancer survivor, she credits nutrition as an important part of her recovery and has dedicated her career to helping readers make healthier, more informed choices through practical, approachable cooking. Her writing blends food science, folklore, nutrition, and humor, offering accessible guidance on everything from smart grocery shopping and budget-friendly meals to food safety and everyday wellness. Kaufman is the co-founder of the healthy cooking and food safety website FreeRangeClub.com and the author of the acclaimed children's book Jolene: Adventures of a Junk Food Queen. Through her books, columns, and media appearances, she continues to inspire healthier living for families of all ages.

Maître Cuisinier de France Bernard Guillas is an internationally acclaimed chef and the former Executive Chef of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, overseeing its celebrated Shores Restaurant and the iconic AAA Four Diamond Marine Room in La Jolla, California. Throughout his distinguished career, he has earned recognition for his refined yet approachable cuisine, commitment to seasonal ingredients, and passion for sharing the art of cooking.

Now working as a private chef, Guillas divides his time between Moab, Utah, and San Diego, California, creating memorable culinary experiences for private homes, vacation properties, corporate events, and special celebrations. He also offers personalized cooking classes, helping everyone from beginning cooks to experienced home chefs build confidence and elevate their skills. His expertise, warmth, and dedication to hospitality have made him one of America's most respected culinary professionals.

About The Illustrator

Product Details

  • Publisher: Rare Bird Books (January 12, 2027)
  • Length: 270 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781644286173
  • Ages: 9 - 14

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Raves and Reviews

“The Honeybee Sorcerer is a magical tribute to the flavors and traditions that unite us. As a chef who believes food can transform communities, I was inspired by Anaïs and Dylan’s culinary adventure to protect our planet’s most essential workers—bees. Through my own initiative, Viva Abejas, I share in this mission to safeguard pollinators and preserve the future of our food.”

 

Richard Sandoval, chef, author, TV perso

 

“I passionately acknowledge The Honeybee Sorcerer, a brilliant collaboration by my dear friend Chef Bernard Guillas and Catharine Kaufman. Bernard’s passion, creativity, and deep commitment to culinary excellence shine throughout this incredible journey. Having shared over twenty years of unforgettable culinary events together, it’s a true honor to celebrate this inspiring work that not only educates but also inspires young readers to appreciate the magic of cooking and the important role of bees in our world.”

Dean James Max, Presi

“Only Catharine and Bernard could stir up a story this delicious. The Honeybee Sorcerer is a playful, powerful tale that blends culinary love with magical realism in the best way. It’s got heart, humor, and a whole lot of honey. A total treat for curious young readers and for grown-ups who believe that food can change the world.”

Chef Claudia Sandoval, award-winning celebrity chef, bestselling author, TV host, Executive Producer

“Buzzing with adventure and heart, The Honeybee Sorcerer is a must-read for middle graders who love magic, mystery, and making a difference. With twin teen protagonists whose quirky paranormal powers are as unique as their personalities, this novel weaves an urgent environmental message into a spellbinding story: if all the bees vanished, more than 30% of our food would disappear too. As the twins are recruited by an ecologically-minded benevolent sorcerer they harness their extraordinary gifts to save the bees. Readers are swept into a world where bravery, teamwork, and hope can truly help repair the planet. Perfect for fans of magical realism and eco-adventures, The Honeybee Sorcerer inspires young readers to believe they can change the world—one bee at a time.”

Vahe Guzelimian, California Apiarist
 

“The Honeybee Sorcerer is a middle-schooler's dream, blending high fantasy and noble quests with exotic travels and above all mouthwatering food. Catharine Kaufman sends us on a thrilling adventure, while Chef Bernard Guillas infuses every page with a true passion for cooking to young people. Between the action and the detailed recipes, this book is guaranteed to spark delicious conversation at the dinner table."

Frans van der Lee, President and Co-Founder of 

“Just when I thought my friend Chef Bernard had done every uber-creative thing that he could, he goes one step further by teaming up with Catharine Kaufman to take us on a magical journey into the plight of the Honeybee. It should come as no surprise that French bakeries and purple artichokes are involved in the story, and of course there are tasty recipes weaved in. But the whole paranormal theme with a bee loving sorcerer make this an intriguing story to bring younger readers to the table where they’ll surely learn about the significant role bees play in our global food supply.”

 

Ray Lampe, Dr. BBQ

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