THE ENLIGHTENMENT OF BEES

Narrator Madison Lawrence exuberantly introduces 26-year-old Mia West, who is anticipating a proposal from her boyfriend. When the big moment doesn't materialize, Mia spontaneously joins Humanitas, an international organization that helps the needy. Billionaire Lars Lindquist, a well-rendered eccentric, entertains the volunteers on his private island before they depart. Lawrence's portrayal of Mia is endearing, but the story disappoints when she falls in love with another volunteer, showing her immaturity. Most of the team members are appropriately portrayed as privileged and clueless, while a Rwandan volunteer and the local staff are more realistic. Lawrence provides a moving depiction of the sweet relationship between Mia and her dying nana, Alice, who cheers her "girl" every step of the way. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2019]