My 2-year-old daughter was a bumblebee for Halloween. Maybe that's why she loves Jerry Bee, the kindhearted character in "Bee-Wigged."

What's not to love? Jerry is sweet as honey and as well-mannered as a Sunday school teacher. Then again, he is a bee -- and not only that, he's the most enormous bee anyone has ever seen. Try as he might, Jerry Bee can't make a single friend, despite offers of flowers and free honey. The rejection stings.

"Je-wee's cryin'," my daughter says, pointing at the teary-eyed bee.

The fortuitous appearance of a wig changes everything for Jerry. When he puts on the piece, folks react differently. Schoolchildren believe he's one of them. His kindness and talents make him the most popular kid in school -- just as long as he keeps his identity a secret, which, of course, he cannot do forever. What will happen if Jerry's new friends discover who he really is?

Acclaimed children's author and illustrator Cece Bell, whose book credits include the "Sock Monkey" series, has painted a sweet tale that buzzes with colorful characters, gentle wit and quirky twists. Bell tells Jerry's story as much through her bright, neonlike images as through her words. Jerry's feelings become obvious through winks, grins and tears.

Small children especially will be captivated by the cute characters and drawings. That's why "Bee-Wigged" is a new favorite of the little bumblebee in my hive.