Author and chef CK Swart has released a thought-provoking children’s book titled One To Two Bees and a Farmer, blending whimsical storytelling with a timely environmental message. The story follows a determined bee and her young son as they team up with a kind-hearted human, Farmer Otto, to address the ecological challenges bees face today—chief among them habitat destruction, urban sprawl, and harmful pesticides.
The book emerges at a crucial moment in environmental discourse, particularly as global awareness grows around the declining bee population and the cascading effects it may have on ecosystems and food production. Swart’s approach introduces this topic to a younger audience in a way that is both accessible and inspiring. Through vibrant characters and a heartfelt narrative, the story encourages children to connect with nature and recognize their potential to be stewards of the environment.
The origin of One To Two Bees and a Farmer is deeply personal. CK Swart, whose full name is Cailyn Swart, first conceived the book’s title at just eight years old. Over the years, the idea matured into a more developed story that reflects both the innocence of childhood imagination and the complexity of real-world environmental challenges. According to Swart, the decision to revisit her childhood concept came from a desire to engage younger generations on important topics through literature.
Far from being a simple tale of insects and farms, the book tackles broader themes of collaboration, conservation, and civic responsibility. The protagonists—two bees and a farmer—symbolize the potential for unity between humans and nature. Otto, the farmer, is portrayed not as an authority figure but as a partner who listens, learns, and takes initiative to protect the creatures who help his land flourish.
At a time when many children’s books focus on entertainment, Swart’s work stands out for its educational undertones. The book neither preaches nor simplifies; rather, it presents a narrative where characters ask questions, solve problems, and find hope amid adversity. This layered storytelling approach helps children engage critically with the environment while still enjoying a playful and imaginative reading experience.
Swart’s dual background as both an author and chef further informs her understanding of food systems and biodiversity. While the book is fictional, the issues it addresses—pollinator health, monoculture farming, pesticide use—are based on real-world science.
In writing One To Two Bees and a Farmer, Swart is not only raising awareness but also laying the groundwork for a larger body of work. She has expressed a strong interest in developing more children’s books that highlight environmental and social themes in engaging ways. Her goal is to build a catalog of stories that spark curiosity and compassion in young readers.
Although this is her first published title, Swart’s longstanding passion for writing and storytelling is evident throughout the book. She has plans to expand the universe of One To Two Bees and a Farmer, potentially developing sequels or related works that continue exploring the relationship between people and the planet.
The book’s release also marks the launch of Swart’s author platform, which she hopes to expand through school visits, community events, and online engagement. Readers and educators alike can follow her work and learn more about her creative process at www.onetotwobees.com or through her social media handles, where she shares updates, artwork, resources and environmental tips: @ckswart on Instagram and @ckswart on X.
By combining artful storytelling with urgent ecological themes, CK Swart has crafted a book that resonates with children, parents, and educators alike. One To Two Bees and a Farmer is more than a tale of friendship and flowers—it is a call to awareness, advocacy, and action.
For more information on how you can make a difference, visit www.onetotwobees.com.
