A heartwarming and energetic story about starting school with ADHD,
Bessie’s Bees
celebrates neurodiversity through a fun, relatable metaphor. Created in partnership with Mayo Clinic pediatric experts, this picture book includes practical tips and myth—busting facts to support families navigating ADHD.
Bessie’s head is full of bees—buzzing, bouncing, and brimming with energy. And that’s just fine. But when Bessie starts school, she can't see anyone else's bees. So she hides hers. Before long, her head isn’t just buzzing—it’s bursting!
With help from her Granny, Bessie learns that her bees are part of what makes her special—and that sharing them might be the best way to feel like herself again.
Written by debut author George Kirk and illustrated with warmth and humor by Ana Gómez,
is a joyful, reassuring story for kids with ADHD and the people who love them. Includes expert back matter from Mayo Clinic pediatrician Khaled Mohammed, M.B., B.Ch., offering:
Myth—busting facts
about ADHD (for example, no, ADHD is not caused by bad parenting or too much sugar)
Tips for parents and caregivers
on how to support children with ADHD
Suggestions for kids
to help them understand and embrace their unique brains
A joyful celebration of neurodiversity, this story helps kids with ADHD feel understood and empowers parents with trusted, practical advice from Mayo Clinic experts.
Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education and Mayo Clinic.