Mila and the Bear

This heartwarming, uplifting adventure tells the story of Mila and the bear she was given during life-changing times. This is the first book of many that will explore Mila's adventure as a preschooler as she learns how to be positive, kind, confident, happy and accepting of others. 

This charmingly illustrated book celebrates diversity and inclusion in a beautiful, empathetic way.  Follow Mila through her big move to a new school as she befriends other children who might be different from her – but are also so much alike. They all share a special furry companion who accompanies them on special adventures. 

This book is dedicated to sweet baby girl Milä Rose. Love is meant to be an adventure.

Jennifer Soup started writing the book Mila and the Bear during her first pregnancy with baby Milä Rose with her two co-authors, Ashlee Koonce and Aquera Agee. Unfortunately, during a normal 25th week check-up, Jennifer and her husband's world was turned upside down when the doctor could not find baby Milä's heartbeat. In a blink of an eye, they lost the love of their lives. "Adventure" now has a totally new meaning to them after their loss. Together as proud parents, they have made a promise that her heartbeat will forever live by writing adventures Milä would have had with her bear and friends.

Jennifer earned a degree in Communications and Marketing from the University of Arkansas and now lives in Oakton, Virginia, with her husband. She is expecting their rainbow baby in 2022. Jennifer has over a decade of experience in event planning including conferences, trade shows, weddings, and social events.

She hopes to connect with families who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss and wants them to know they are not alone. Life after these losses can be heartbreaking, confusing, and lonely. Through her writing, Jennifer hopes to help children and their families discuss topics that might make them uncomfortable with an open mind and a positive attitude. Ashlee Koonce, Founder and CEO of The Ashlee Agency, LLC (TAA), is a vibrant woman who believes in the greatness of people. This belief inspired her to start The Ashlee Agency, a networking consulting firm. She has the desire to help people and businesses grow, knowing that their progress is her success. She believes that lives are changed by encouraging people to make their M.A.R.C. in the world. M.A.R.C. stands for motivating others, alleviating distractions, revitalizing the mind, continuing to grow, and creating better communities. Ashlee is the visionary behind Entrepreneurs R.O.C.K and one half of the Beauties in Business Brunch women's empowerment series. She has now recently added author to her talents as she shares this role with her two friends and co-authors Aquera and Jennifer. Aquera Agee, a Washington, D.C. native, is an event planner and has written her first book with friends Jennifer Soup and Ashlee Koonce. She is passionate and nurturing of children so collaborating with friends on a children's book is fitting for her. She loves to inspire and looks forward to creating a series children will love. Stephanie Nguyen was born and raised in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and now resides in New York City. She earned a BFA in Fashion Design from Parsons School of Design. Her education and experience at Parsons equipped her with the creative knowledge that furthered her passion for illustration.

Stephanie was inspired to illustrate the book Mila and the Bear, a heartwarming story written for her niece. She hopes to inspire and spark adventurous minds in young readers through her illustrations.