An Award-Winning Anti-Bullying and Mindfulness Book for Children Ages 4-8

Bee-Coming Strong tells the enchanting story of Jazianzza, a charming and curious little honeybee who sees the world differently. Born with poor eyesight, she once inadvertently flew into the side of her hive, leaving her with a distinctive corkscrew-shaped antenna. With her new glasses helping her see clearly, Jazi delights in discovering the beauty all around her as she buzzes through the world, forming wonderful friendships with Lydah Butter Fly and Tree, and living her life with wonder, curiosity, and joy.

Amid her joy, however, Jazianzza feels some sadness that many children will recognize. Her sister bees, especially Glazizza, chide her for getting distracted and make fun of her for being different. Like so many children facing bullying or feeling left out, Jazi struggles with self-doubt and the sting of unkind words.

Looking for solace, Jazianzza turns to MamaQueenzieBee, a very wise Queen indeed. MamaQB teaches Jazi simple but remarkably effective mindfulness practices that any child can learn and use:

• Belly breathing exercises using everyday objects (like Jazianzza’s pollen ball technique)
• Calming visualization methods for managing worry and fear
• Self-acceptance strategies for embracing what makes you unique
• Confidence-building techniques that help children stay true to themselves

These evidence-based approaches, presented through Jazianzza’s gentle adventures, give children practical emotional regulation tools they can use in their own lives.

Despite her new glasses improving her eyesight, Jazi’s curiosity sometimes still leads her astray. During the most challenging moment of her life, while absorbed in wonder at the sight of a colorful ladybug, she accidentally bursts ahead of her sisters, who had stopped when confronted by Queen Hemizill Hornet – an “enemy” who scares them all.

But remembering everything MamaQB taught her about breathing through fear and staying calm, Jazi gathers her inner strength and courageously reaches out with kindness. She even offers her precious glasses to help the Queen’s daughter, who also struggles with poor eyesight. This generous act transforms everything – the feared hornets become friends, and Jazi’s sisters discover that their “different” sister has saved the day through compassion and courage.

As psychologist Dr. Dale Atkins, who wrote the Foreword for Bee-coming Strong, notes, “Instilling kindness and compassion in children helps them become more connected and happier.” Dr. Atkins, co-author of the important book The Kindness Advantage, recognizes how Jazianzza’s story offers profound lessons in a world where our perceived enemies may actually be friends we have yet to know.

For Children:

• Jazianzza’s charming “bee” puns and delightful personality
• Colorful, inclusive illustrations featuring children of all backgrounds
• Interactive breathing and mindfulness exercises that they can practice along with the story
• A relatable main character who faces real challenges but finds her inner strength

For Parents and Educators:

• Research-backed mindfulness techniques presented in kid-friendly ways
• Anti-bullying strategies that focus on building resilience rather than just avoiding conflict
• Environmental education is woven naturally into the story
• A tool for starting conversations about differences, kindness, and inner strength
  

Children and adults who have read Bee-Coming Strong consistently report being captivated by Jazianzza’s story and finding that MamaQueenzieBee’s wise advice helps them in their own lives, too. From master yogis to child psychologists to entomologists, experts praise the book’s gentle approach to serious topics and its practical value for young readers.

It is my deepest hope that you will enjoy Jazianzza’s story. I love to imagine Jazi buzzing around the planet, seeing children learning to breathe, shaking off their challenges, and bee-coming strong in themselves. May her story bring joy to all who read it as they receive the gift of some simple yet powerful ways to handle the disappointments and fears that arise in all our lives, whatever our age.