Bonnie Lee
Bonnie Lee is an accomplished Executive Legal Assistant and the visionary Founder and Creative Director of Bonnie Lee Books, a publishing company dedicated to creating educational stories that inspire a love for wildlife and learning among young readers. With over 25 years of professional experience in executive administration and legal support, Bonnie has cultivated a career marked by precision, creativity, and service excellence. Her academic foundation in Design and Applied Arts from Parsons School of Design, complemented by law studies at Stanford University, uniquely equips her with both analytical and creative expertise.
As the creative force behind Bonnie Lee Books, Bonnie has authored and produced over a dozen children’s titles that have delighted families, educators, and conservation organizations worldwide. Her stories transport children to diverse natural habitats, encouraging curiosity about the world’s creatures while teaching essential values and early reading skills. Through partnerships with zoos, aquariums, and wildlife institutions, her work promotes environmental stewardship and fosters a deep appreciation for the natural world. Bonnie’s dedication to maintaining artistic and educational integrity has earned her recognition as a champion for meaningful, mission-driven publishing.
Beyond her professional achievements, Bonnie is deeply passionate about wildlife conservation, cultural exploration, and education. Having lived in Japan and traveled extensively, she embraces the richness of global experiences and infuses this cultural awareness into her writing. Her volunteer work with Stanford Children’s Health and the Ronald McDonald House reflects her commitment to nurturing young minds and supporting families. Whether managing complex executive operations or crafting stories that ignite wonder, Bonnie (Lady) Lee continues to inspire through her compassion, creativity, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.
• Kangaroos and Kin
• Animal Welfare - General Audience - Short Course
• Worms, Germs and You (Introduction to Zoonotic Disease)
• Stanford University - JD
• Stanford Children's Health | Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford
• Ronald McDonald House at Stanford
• Project Night Night
• Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to creativity, persistence, and adaptability. Transitioning from corporate law to creative entrepreneurship required both courage and consistency. My success comes from evolving my brand while staying true to my mission—to inspire curiosity and compassion for animals in young readers. Collaborating with illustrator Peter Zaffritz and maintaining long-term relationships with buyers have been pivotal in sustaining growth within the ever-changing publishing market.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to “stay true to your creative mission, even when trends shift.” This reminder has helped me focus on my niche—educational storytelling—rather than chasing fleeting market fads. It has guided me through nearly two decades of changes in children’s publishing, ensuring that my brand’s educational message remains consistent.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering this industry is to “learn every side of the business—from creation to distribution.” I encourage aspiring authors and illustrators to understand the full publishing process. Building strong relationships with printers, distributors, and buyers is essential, because a creative vision is only sustainable when paired with solid business acumen.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the biggest challenges in my field right now include the decline of U.S.-based printing facilities and the volatility of retail markets. Managing shipping costs, maintaining distribution networks, and predicting buyer trends require constant vigilance. At the same time, I see tremendous opportunity in educational partnerships—collaborating with zoos, museums, and conservation organizations—to keep my content both relevant and mission-driven. I firmly believe that books remain one of the most powerful tools for inspiring environmental awareness in children.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, education, and curiosity. I strive to maintain the highest integrity in all my creative and business practices. My books are designed not only to entertain but to educate, fostering respect for wildlife and the natural world. I value authenticity in storytelling and transparency in business dealings, particularly in partnerships with zoos and aquariums.
Locations
Bonnie Lee Books
Goleta, CA 93117