First Lessons in Beekeeping introduces the prospective beekeeper to the basics of beekeeping through easy-to-understand text and numerous color photos on honey bee biology, beekeeping equipment, management, honey production and processing, as well as disease diagnosis and treatment. In the preface to this book, author Keith Delaplane says of his first book on beekeeping, "Its pages opened to me a golden world of honey bees and beekeeping and guided my stumbling steps that first spring season. My story is but one of thousands who have passed through the door opened by Dadant's little book."

Keith S. Delaplane is Professor of Entomology and head of honey bee research and extension lab at the University of Georgia. He has a long association with honey bees, beginning when his father bought him a beginner's kit when he was 13. Dr. Delaplane has authored, co-authored, or edited over 200 publications, including four books, one public television series, and over 30 original research articles. He is a recipient of the Exceptional Service award by the Apiary Inspectors of America; James I. Hambleton Award for Research by the Eastern Apicultural Society; and the D.W. Brooks and Walter B. Hill Awards for Service by the University of Georgia.