Liam the Entrepreneur Starts with Why
#1 in Liam the Entrepreneur Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
As kids realize they have the skills to earn money, this book helps them make the connection to running their own business. We set-up the image of a greedy entrepreneur and contrast him with Uncle Jack, who gives us a great example of entrepreneurship as he runs his construction company. Throughout the story, 6 year old Liam repeatedly sees a better way of leading and using business to serve others. The story ends with a vision for how entrepreneurs can change the world for good.
Discussion points
What do you think drove Liam to become an entrepreneur?
How do you feel about the challenges Liam faced? What would you have done in his situation?
What does 'starting with why' mean to you, and why do you think it's important?
Can you think of a time when you felt really passionate about something? What was it, and why did it matter to you?
If you could start your own business, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing a personal story about a time you faced a challenge or started something new, to create a relaxed environment for your child to open up.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what they would do differently if they were in Liam’s shoes.
Highlight the importance of understanding the 'why' behind actions, and discuss some family values that align with this concept.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to dig deeper into their thoughts and feelings about entrepreneurship and motivations.
Reinforce any entrepreneurial traits you see in your child, whether it's creativity, leadership, or persistence, to boost their confidence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of understanding 'why'
Explanation: Liam, the main character, consistently asks 'why' when starting new projects, which guides his understanding and decision-making process.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach their tasks and challenges by questioning the purpose behind them, fostering a deeper understanding and meaningful engagement in their activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming failures
Explanation: Throughout the book, Liam encounters various setbacks in his entrepreneurial ventures but uses each failure as a lesson to improve and adapt.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success. Encouraging them to persevere through difficulties in school or in personal projects.
Example Lesson: The value of creativity and innovation
Explanation: Liam uses his creative thinking to come up with unique business ideas and solutions to problems.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think outside the box and use their creativity to solve problems or create projects, enhancing their cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: The importance of planning and organization
Explanation: Liam demonstrates thorough planning and organization in his entrepreneurial pursuits which contribute to his successes.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the benefits of being organized and planning ahead in their academic and personal life, leading to better time management and less stress.
Example Lesson: Learning from others
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Liam learns valuable lessons from older entrepreneurs, showing the importance of mentorship and learning from others' experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to seek advice and learn from parents, teachers, or friends, which can help them make informed decisions and grow personally and academically.