The Bees Paperback by Akvile Magicdusté

Product Details

• Publisher: Fantagraphics (2025-04-22)
• Language: English
• Paperback: 168 pages
• ISBN-13: 9798875000843
• Item Weight: 447.93 grams
• Dimensions: 22.86 x 18.54 x 1.27 cm

The extraordinary true story of Lithuania’s first all–women rock band.

A USBBY Outstanding International Book

In 1965, inspired by The Beatles, Lithuanian musician Jurate Dineikaite founded a rock band called The Bees. This spirited ensemble of six women toured throughout the Soviet Union during the ’60s and ’70s — turning heads with their blue jeans, mop-tops, and modern rock sound. For these women, taking the stage was at once an electrifying expression of their artistry and an audacious political act.

Based on interviews with Jurate herself, this graphic novel vividly captures episodes of the group’s lived experiences — from thrilling performances to chilling encounters with the KGB. An authentic portrayal of a fascinating true history little known outside of Lithuania, The Bees is adapted with vibrant colors and a charmingly handcrafted style by cartoonist Akvile Magicdusté. This edition also features a photo gallery with period snapshots of the band in action, plus a playlist of their original songs!

About the Author

Akvile Magicdusté graduated from the Vilnius Academy of Arts and the LUCA School of Arts in Brussels. She is the author of the graphic novels Bites (The Bees) and Tropical Wildchilds. In additional to her illustration work, she creates textiles, ceramics, and murals. Her drawing is marked by bright pastel colors and whimsical nature. In Akvile’s artistic world, bats can skateboard and tigers lurk around every corner. She’s based in Vilnius, Lithuania.