Bee Fearless: Dream Like a Kid

Gr 5-8—Teen entrepreneur Ulmer shares her story and the best business strategies for success. At the age of four, she was stung by two different bees in the span of two weeks. As a result, Ulmer developed a fear of the insect. Her parents encouraged her to conquer her bee-related anxiety through knowledge. After learning that the bees were disappearing at an astonishing rate, she decided to sell lemonade to raise funds to save them. Now, the 15-year-old Austin, TX, resident is the director of Me & the Bees, a multimillion-dollar enterprise. Her memoir charts her rise and offers useful tips for other young people looking to make an impact in their neighborhood or the wider world. In the introduction, Ulmer notes, "The things that I've learned about what makes a great entrepreneur are qualities that come naturally to kids." This thesis is effectively supported by examples from her personal and professional growth. Ulmer emphasizes what she wants to share with other kids: identify a problem, research it, and then solve the issue in a way that incites one's passion. VERDICT A memoir and how-to guide with heart. Readers of any age will appreciate Ulmer's ingenuity and harness the strength they need to create and innovate.—Sierra Dickey, Ctr. for New Americans, Northampton, MA

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Praise for Bee Fearless

★ "In sharing her story, this talented Black girl breaks down not only each opportunity and decision she and those who supported her had to make along the way, but also the lessons about business that she learned in the process, making this a manual as well as a memoir. Her growth is inspiring, her story is fascinating, and her wisdom is priceless for young entrepreneurs. Gift this to every aspiring and beginning entrepreneur; they will thank you." —Kirkus, starred review

★ "Ulmer maintains a conversational style, displays appealing humbleness, and touts the importance of family support. She also offers solid entrepreneurial advice, honed through her experiences as a C.E.O, motivational speaker, and environmental activist. . . Aspiring business tycoons and environmentalists will be inspired by her story." -Booklist, starred review

"A memoir and how-to guide with heart. Readers of any age will appreciate Ulmer's ingenuity and harness the strength they need to create and innovate." —School Library Journal

"Bee Fearless is equal parts memoir and business playbook—and exactly what tweens and their parents need right now. After a bee sting, a family lemonade recipe, and plenty of ingenuity, fifteen-year-old Mikaila Ulmer has sold more than a million bottles of her Me & the Bees lemonade. She is wise beyond her years and reminds us all that making a beeline to follow your business dreams is never a bad idea." —Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook COO and founder of LeanIn.Org and OptionB.Org

"From running a multimillion-dollar business to making time for her schoolwork, Mikaila will awaken the go-getter in you. Bee Fearless inspires us all to dream like kids and pair our passions with our purpose." —Daymond John, Shark Tank panelist and investor

"Mikaila is one of the most impressive entrepreneurs I've had the privilege to meet. Her ingenuity paired with her mission to save the honey bees is an example of how businesses can lead with purpose. By sharing her story and inspiring readers of all ages to pursue their dreams with passion, the world will be a better place." —Satya Nadella, CEO, Microsoft