Insects have a way of stealing the spotlight, when you actually stop to look. Entomology is the "Art of Noticing". Maybe it's just me but there is something enchanting about a bug's shimmering wings, curious compound eyes, and alien-like elegance make them endlessly fascinating. And thanks to a handful of visionary photographers, artists, and naturalists, we don’t need a magnifying glass (or a macro lens) to appreciate their splendor. These five beautifully curated books open a portal into the insect world, blending breathtaking images with science, storytelling, and heart. Whether you’re an insect enthusiast, a budding entomologist, or simply bug-curious, this list will help you marvel at nature’s tiniest masterpieces.
We’ll count down from five to one to uncover the best of the bunch. As an entomologist, I share in aim to shop smarter, not harder so here's all the Buzz.
5. What the Bees See: A Honeybee's Eye View of the World
$20.80 (was $21.90) • 4.8 Stars • 43 Reviews
Ever wondered how bees perceive the world? This colorful, imaginative book offers a rare glimpse into the sensory experience of a honeybee—from flower patterns only visible in ultraviolet light to the dizzying dance of the waggle. Combining clever visuals and insightful commentary, it’s equal parts fun and educational. It makes a sweet gift for young naturalists, teachers, or anyone who enjoys thinking like a bee.
Discover the buzz-worthy beauty of the world through a bee’s gaze here
Discover the buzzing world through a honeybee's eyes!
4. Extinct & Endangered: Insects in Peril
$16.99 (was $18.00) • 4.8 Stars • 37 Reviews
'Extinct & Endangered: Insects in Peril' is a visually stunning journey through the world of imperiled insects, and it’s a must-have for anyone passionate about entomology and photography. With a star rating of 4.8 from 37 reviewers, this book captures breathtaking close-ups that showcase the fragile beauty of species facing extinction. Priced at $16.99, it's not just a treat for your eyes but also a call to action, sparking conversations about conservation. If you’ve ever wanted to marvel at the intricate details of these tiny creatures, this book delivers just that—bringing the artistically profound and the urgent ecological message together in one compelling package.
Discover the fascinating world of insects at risk – Learn more!
3. National Geographic Photo Ark Insects: Butterflies, Bees, and Kindred Creatures
$12.00 • 4.8 Stars • 136 Reviews
Leave it to National Geographic to make bugs look like royalty. Joel Sartore’s celebrated Photo Ark series zooms in on over 100 insect species, each posed against dramatic black and white backgrounds that highlight every shimmer, antenna, and wing vein. The images are mesmerizing, and the accompanying stories offer just enough science to make you a smarter bug-lover with each page turn. It's a must-have for anyone who appreciates visual storytelling with a conservation heart.
Explore this stunning menagerie of insects and kindred creatures here
Discover the Beauty of Insects: Shop here to explore National Geographic's Photo Ark!
2. The Backyard Beekeeping Bible: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Thriving Hives and Sweet, Healthy Honey Harvests
$17.38 • 4.9 Stars • 20 Reviews
This book is as sweet as the honey it helps you harvest. Whether you're curious about hive maintenance, photographing your fuzzy pollinators, or crafting with beeswax, The Backyard Beekeeping Bible is both a manual and a muse. It gently guides readers from zero to beekeeper hero, with charming tutorials, luscious recipes, and practical wisdom that feels like chatting with a mentor. It’s particularly helpful for those who want to get up close and personal with bees—camera in hand and curiosity intact.
Start your beekeeping and bee-photographing journey here
Discover the Secrets to Beekeeping Success!
1. Strange Nature: The Insect Portraits of Levon Biss
$18.99 • 5 Stars • 16 Reviews
Levon Biss doesn’t just take photographs. The man is a genius at revealing entire worlds. Adapted for younger readers from his landmark work Microsculpture, Strange Nature transforms museum specimens into large-format portraits that explode with color, texture, and microscopic detail. With lively text by Gregory Mone and captivating images that make you want to press your nose to the page, this book is a gateway drug to entomology. It’s the perfect combination of art, science, and storytelling—worthy of a centerpiece on any naturalist’s shelf.
Discover the hidden drama of insects through Levon Biss’s lens here
Explore the Fascinating World of Insects with Levon Biss's Portraits!
From bees’ eye views to dramatic portraits of endangered beetles, these books celebrate the intricate beauty of insects and the artistry of those who photograph them. Whether you're aiming to improve your macro shots or simply admire nature’s smallest wonders, there’s something here to deepen your appreciation. Thank you for reading. Stay curious and keep exploring because the world is better with bugs, not without them. THE END! 🐜 Got questions? Antennae up—we're listening. 💌
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About the Author
Carol Maier is a professional entomologist, eco-educator, and the founder of International Bug Zoos Inc. With a lifelong passion for insects, spiders, pollinators, and biodiversity, Carol shares her expertise to spark wonder in the natural world—one six-legged friend at a time. Let’s keep the hive humming together! 🐝
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