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Little People, BIG DREAMS
Maria Montessori: My First Maria Montessori
This board book version of Maria Montessori—from the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series—introduces the youngest dreamers to the incredible life of this pioneering teacher and researcher.
Maria grew up in Italy at a time when girls didn't receive an equal education to boys. But Maria's mother was supportive of her dreams, and Maria went on to study medicine. She later became an early childhood expert—founding schools with her revolutionary educational theories and changing the lives of many children. Babies and toddlers will love to snuggle as you read to them the engaging story of this fascinating educator and innovator, and will also enjoy exploring the stylish and quirky illustrations of this sturdy board book on their own.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
Maria grew up in Italy at a time when girls didn't receive an equal education to boys. But Maria's mother was supportive of her dreams, and Maria went on to study medicine. She later became an early childhood expert—founding schools with her revolutionary educational theories and changing the lives of many children. Babies and toddlers will love to snuggle as you read to them the engaging story of this fascinating educator and innovator, and will also enjoy exploring the stylish and quirky illustrations of this sturdy board book on their own.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
24 pages, Board Book
First published March 5, 2019
10 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara
203 books447 followersMaria Isabel Sánchez Vegara, born in Barcelona, Spain, is a writer and creative director perhaps best known as the author of much of the Little People, Big Dreams series. Each book tells the childhood story of one of the world's female icons in an entertaining, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers, allowing them to identify with the characters in each story.
You may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
You may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
February 25, 2019
‘The children of today are the makers of tomorrow’
Maria Montessori has a special place in my heart, so I was very happy to see this new title in the ‘Little people, big dreams’ series. The book gives a condensed and accessible account of Maria Montessori’s life. She was born into the world where school activities were dull, with a lot of rota learning and little place for discovery and creativity. Maria also had to break a few barriers in becoming the first woman in Italy to study medicine. She cared so passionately about the disabled children she worked with, that she developed a new method to help them reach their full potential. A lot of her ideas of how to help children grow into ‘free, curious and responsible human beings’ have found their way into mainstream pre-school and school education.
I believe this is a great addition to the series, as this informative and beautifully illustrated (albeit in its special quirky style) book gives young readers an opportunity to read about a great role-model, somebody whose hard workd and dedication changed a lot of lives.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing group for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Maria Montessori has a special place in my heart, so I was very happy to see this new title in the ‘Little people, big dreams’ series. The book gives a condensed and accessible account of Maria Montessori’s life. She was born into the world where school activities were dull, with a lot of rota learning and little place for discovery and creativity. Maria also had to break a few barriers in becoming the first woman in Italy to study medicine. She cared so passionately about the disabled children she worked with, that she developed a new method to help them reach their full potential. A lot of her ideas of how to help children grow into ‘free, curious and responsible human beings’ have found their way into mainstream pre-school and school education.
I believe this is a great addition to the series, as this informative and beautifully illustrated (albeit in its special quirky style) book gives young readers an opportunity to read about a great role-model, somebody whose hard workd and dedication changed a lot of lives.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing group for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 19, 2020
4★
“That’s how Maria inspired children everywhere to be their best selves.”
This is one for the youngest children’s Little People, BIG DREAMS collection. Bold simple pictures with only a few words, but the importance of her work comes through. She was a curious little girl who loved learning.
Maria, reaching for books on her parents’ shelves
Born and raised in Italy, she made learning fun even for herself in spite of the teacher’s attitude.
The teacher looking disapprovingly at Maria playing with letters on her desk
She was determined to become a doctor of medicine and was the first woman in Italy to go to medical school. I feel I've known about Maria Montessori forever, but I think I assumed that Dr. Montessori referred to a doctorate in education, not medicine, so I learned something here, too.
The teacher and male students looking puzzled as Maria enters the university classroom
She had to study by herself, without the men, and then worked in a children’s hospital where children with special needs were treated as if they were sick. This wasn’t good enough for her! She played with them, gave them affection, and then decided she would open her own school, The Children’s Home. The children learned through play.
Maria and the children outside, imagining pirates and castles
She made such an impression that her schools are now worldwide and her methods are used in mainstream schools, with a lot of teachers possibly not knowing where the ideas came from.
Maria, teaching the teachers
Her methods benefit not only the children, but also all of us who will be living in a world which they will be in charge of when they grow up.
“For the children of today are the makers of tomorrow”
It’s another simple winner for the very young. My preview copy had no cover and no additional information, so I don’t know if there are other resources at the end. I would have liked some dates and a little more information for the adults who will be reading this to children, or at least helping them to read it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy from which I’ve selected a few illustrations.
“That’s how Maria inspired children everywhere to be their best selves.”
This is one for the youngest children’s Little People, BIG DREAMS collection. Bold simple pictures with only a few words, but the importance of her work comes through. She was a curious little girl who loved learning.
Maria, reaching for books on her parents’ shelves
Born and raised in Italy, she made learning fun even for herself in spite of the teacher’s attitude.
The teacher looking disapprovingly at Maria playing with letters on her desk
She was determined to become a doctor of medicine and was the first woman in Italy to go to medical school. I feel I've known about Maria Montessori forever, but I think I assumed that Dr. Montessori referred to a doctorate in education, not medicine, so I learned something here, too.
The teacher and male students looking puzzled as Maria enters the university classroom
She had to study by herself, without the men, and then worked in a children’s hospital where children with special needs were treated as if they were sick. This wasn’t good enough for her! She played with them, gave them affection, and then decided she would open her own school, The Children’s Home. The children learned through play.
Maria and the children outside, imagining pirates and castles
She made such an impression that her schools are now worldwide and her methods are used in mainstream schools, with a lot of teachers possibly not knowing where the ideas came from.
Maria, teaching the teachers
Her methods benefit not only the children, but also all of us who will be living in a world which they will be in charge of when they grow up.
“For the children of today are the makers of tomorrow”
It’s another simple winner for the very young. My preview copy had no cover and no additional information, so I don’t know if there are other resources at the end. I would have liked some dates and a little more information for the adults who will be reading this to children, or at least helping them to read it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy from which I’ve selected a few illustrations.
March 27, 2019
I've not enjoyed several books from this series, often when the person the book is about has endured some awful events they have to gloss over it due to the young target age which means you're not getting all of the story. This one worked really well and was a good introduction to Maria Montessori's life and her ideas that changed education.
May 11, 2019
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, "The children are now working as if I did not exist”—Maria Montessori
A picture book biography of the educator Maria Montessori by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara from her Little People, Big Dreams series that may appeal to children, parents and teachers as aw ay to talk about the purposes of schooling.
One of my children studied at a Montessori school for three years. I actually agreed to place him there because the school was less individualized than Montessori might have advocated, as the director had been influenced to incorporate some of the dialogic ideas I also liked of theorists such as Paul Freire and Mikhail Bakhtin.
Montessori’s theory emphasized the following key ideas: Independence, Observation, Following the Child, Correcting the Child, Prepared the Environment and Absorbent Mind. The basic thrust is to focus on the child’s learning by herself instead of on the teacher’s teaching:
“Respect all the reasonable forms of activity in which the child engages and try to understand them.”
In other words, pretty much get out of the child’s way and just support what she is doing. A view somewhat extending the views of Rousseau, a sort of romantic approach focused on the unique gifts of each individual child. In general this is admirable, given the rigid, top-down, test-score-centric approach that makes so many students despair about school. Montessori, in contrast, emphasized supporting the child’s play, creativity, and invention. I like all of this of course, but worried that it was excessively individualized; I like group work, with a focus on interaction and problem-solving, too. Project-based learning where students work together. But this book is a good one in the series.
A picture book biography of the educator Maria Montessori by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara from her Little People, Big Dreams series that may appeal to children, parents and teachers as aw ay to talk about the purposes of schooling.
One of my children studied at a Montessori school for three years. I actually agreed to place him there because the school was less individualized than Montessori might have advocated, as the director had been influenced to incorporate some of the dialogic ideas I also liked of theorists such as Paul Freire and Mikhail Bakhtin.
Montessori’s theory emphasized the following key ideas: Independence, Observation, Following the Child, Correcting the Child, Prepared the Environment and Absorbent Mind. The basic thrust is to focus on the child’s learning by herself instead of on the teacher’s teaching:
“Respect all the reasonable forms of activity in which the child engages and try to understand them.”
In other words, pretty much get out of the child’s way and just support what she is doing. A view somewhat extending the views of Rousseau, a sort of romantic approach focused on the unique gifts of each individual child. In general this is admirable, given the rigid, top-down, test-score-centric approach that makes so many students despair about school. Montessori, in contrast, emphasized supporting the child’s play, creativity, and invention. I like all of this of course, but worried that it was excessively individualized; I like group work, with a focus on interaction and problem-solving, too. Project-based learning where students work together. But this book is a good one in the series.
May 6, 2019
While March 2019's (and therefore very recent) Maria Montessori is indeed also available in English translation, I have once again decided to read this Little People, Big Dreams book in its original Spanish, since the English language edition is not available at my local library and not even on order it seems (as well as being ridiculously expensive to purchase online) and of course also that the Spanish original is both available for my Kindle and quite reasonably priced at that (especially compared to the hardcover English translation edition). And once again, perusing Maria Montessori in its Spanish original form has been not only enlightening (information and detail wise) but also delightful and educational language practice for me, with Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara providing a simple but always informative enough introduction to Maria Montessori and how she realised in her career as a physician that children learn better with fun and games, that making learning and education engaging and a delightful experience for students (for children) encourages both learning and contentment, happiness (as well as lastingly retaining and remembering that which has been taught, that which has been shown).
And while I do know and realise that Maria Montessori is a simple and very much basic general introduction for young children and thus neither extensive nor intensive, I do feel that the author's presented narrative, that Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara provides more than sufficient historic and biographic facts on Maria Montessori (both within the text proper and in the supplemental timeline at the back of the book) to give readers an in all ways adequate general portrait. Combined with Raquel Martin's expressive and always historically realistic (accurate) looking and feeling accompanying illustrations, which thankfully always do tend to appear as flattering to the main character, to Maria Montessori and are aesthetically speaking amongst my favourites so far in the Little People, Big Dreams series, I do in fact (and yes, rather surprisingly) highly recommend Maria Montessori (although indeed, the English language translation really is rather overly expensive in my opinion and that therefore, if you cannot find it at the library and do adequately read Spanish, I would definitely and strongly suggest trying Maria Montessori in the Spanish original, as it is a simply rendered basic narrative, and for which I, even with my rather majorly rusty Spanish skills, did not really have all that much trouble understanding the vast majority of Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara's vocabulary choices).
And while I do know and realise that Maria Montessori is a simple and very much basic general introduction for young children and thus neither extensive nor intensive, I do feel that the author's presented narrative, that Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara provides more than sufficient historic and biographic facts on Maria Montessori (both within the text proper and in the supplemental timeline at the back of the book) to give readers an in all ways adequate general portrait. Combined with Raquel Martin's expressive and always historically realistic (accurate) looking and feeling accompanying illustrations, which thankfully always do tend to appear as flattering to the main character, to Maria Montessori and are aesthetically speaking amongst my favourites so far in the Little People, Big Dreams series, I do in fact (and yes, rather surprisingly) highly recommend Maria Montessori (although indeed, the English language translation really is rather overly expensive in my opinion and that therefore, if you cannot find it at the library and do adequately read Spanish, I would definitely and strongly suggest trying Maria Montessori in the Spanish original, as it is a simply rendered basic narrative, and for which I, even with my rather majorly rusty Spanish skills, did not really have all that much trouble understanding the vast majority of Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara's vocabulary choices).
February 23, 2019
The ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The ‘My First Little People, Big Dreams’ series provides informative and inspirational biographies about people who left a mark on this earth, no matter what difficulties they have encountered.
These stories are very short, but that’s because they’re books for children, so it’s totally understandable.
I think they are a very smart and wonderful way to introduce little children to such important figures.
This one is about Maria Montessori, an incredible and amazing woman: in a time when the world was ruled by men, she stood up for herself and became the first woman in Italy to study medicine.
Maria developed a revolutionary educational method in order to help children learn. This method is now used everywhere.
This little book is an adorable way for children to learn about some of the educational methods they use.
The ‘My First Little People, Big Dreams’ series provides informative and inspirational biographies about people who left a mark on this earth, no matter what difficulties they have encountered.
These stories are very short, but that’s because they’re books for children, so it’s totally understandable.
I think they are a very smart and wonderful way to introduce little children to such important figures.
This one is about Maria Montessori, an incredible and amazing woman: in a time when the world was ruled by men, she stood up for herself and became the first woman in Italy to study medicine.
Maria developed a revolutionary educational method in order to help children learn. This method is now used everywhere.
This little book is an adorable way for children to learn about some of the educational methods they use.
February 16, 2020
Oh wow. I probably could write my own book about Maria Montessori who is and has been my own role model and hero. Few have influenced my life and that of my children as much as Maria Montessori!
Maria Montessori, by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara, is part of the Little People, Big Dreams series for children. The books are basically biographies written on child’s level about people who not born into greatness but, instead, lived to achieve their dreams. Montessori is best known for her unique method of educating children that was and still is practiced in many countries through schools founded on her philosophy and by many homeschool families who appreciate the child centered approach to learning. The book often points out, rightly so, that Maria received her education, in science, medicine and more, at a time when girls were not encouraged to do so. She overcame the odds to become an expert in childhood education.
My one drawback to this book is that the author describes Montessori’s method as education through play. While playing in an important part of learning for us all, that is not the foundation of Montessori’s teachings. Learning is everywhere – play, cooking, building, every day skills that we must achieve. Giving the child access to multiple areas in which to learn – including play – is essential to their growth. My son was cooking Mac and Cheese from scratch when he was five years old because he was never told that he couldn’t. All of my kids stayed well above the “normal” achievements of others because they were never held back from learning new skills. Freedom to learn everywhere, that is the beauty of Montessori’s method.
Maria Montessori is marvelous addition to this incredible series and one that I hope parents and teachers alike will utilize to their fullest extent.
If you read these book, or have already, let me know what you think. If you haven’t, then I encourage you to do so regardless of your age. You will learn something new, guaranteed.
Maria Montessori, by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara, is part of the Little People, Big Dreams series for children. The books are basically biographies written on child’s level about people who not born into greatness but, instead, lived to achieve their dreams. Montessori is best known for her unique method of educating children that was and still is practiced in many countries through schools founded on her philosophy and by many homeschool families who appreciate the child centered approach to learning. The book often points out, rightly so, that Maria received her education, in science, medicine and more, at a time when girls were not encouraged to do so. She overcame the odds to become an expert in childhood education.
My one drawback to this book is that the author describes Montessori’s method as education through play. While playing in an important part of learning for us all, that is not the foundation of Montessori’s teachings. Learning is everywhere – play, cooking, building, every day skills that we must achieve. Giving the child access to multiple areas in which to learn – including play – is essential to their growth. My son was cooking Mac and Cheese from scratch when he was five years old because he was never told that he couldn’t. All of my kids stayed well above the “normal” achievements of others because they were never held back from learning new skills. Freedom to learn everywhere, that is the beauty of Montessori’s method.
Maria Montessori is marvelous addition to this incredible series and one that I hope parents and teachers alike will utilize to their fullest extent.
If you read these book, or have already, let me know what you think. If you haven’t, then I encourage you to do so regardless of your age. You will learn something new, guaranteed.
March 5, 2020
This is one of the best of the series so far, with Montessori's story broken down into something easy to grasp without losing how much she impacted the world. Great illustrations as always!
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
January 19, 2020
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Another beautiful installment in the Little People, Big Dreams series! This one is a beautiful biography about Maria Montessori who paved a pathway for children and education and helped to shape education as it is today. It shows she didn't always have it easy such as being a woman in a man's world, but how persistence and following your heart to make a difference can make a big change in the world.
I love these inspirational books and haven't found one I cannot reccomend yet.
Another beautiful installment in the Little People, Big Dreams series! This one is a beautiful biography about Maria Montessori who paved a pathway for children and education and helped to shape education as it is today. It shows she didn't always have it easy such as being a woman in a man's world, but how persistence and following your heart to make a difference can make a big change in the world.
I love these inspirational books and haven't found one I cannot reccomend yet.
February 20, 2019
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This series is always a joy to read, it’s a really nice introduction to well known people for little children. Of course the plot is always a little bit fast but that’s to be expected and it’s totally understandable.
This book shows children the story of one incredible woman, Maria Montessori, a researcher and teacher who was very important for how we learn today. She thought that a good way for children to learn was to use games and fun activities and it totally worked. Her methods are still used today and they have shown great results with children.
I think children might enjoy learning the history of some of the teaching methods they use every day.
This series is always a joy to read, it’s a really nice introduction to well known people for little children. Of course the plot is always a little bit fast but that’s to be expected and it’s totally understandable.
This book shows children the story of one incredible woman, Maria Montessori, a researcher and teacher who was very important for how we learn today. She thought that a good way for children to learn was to use games and fun activities and it totally worked. Her methods are still used today and they have shown great results with children.
I think children might enjoy learning the history of some of the teaching methods they use every day.
February 21, 2019
Another one of those biographical books for children. Good as always and school related so kids might be more concern about the person. Only problem, the little real bio part at the end was not working on the version I had, so the publisher might want to look that out before the official publication.
March 16, 2019
Maria Montessori is an awesome addition to the Little People, BIG DREAMS series! I was familiar with the Montessori method of education but I didn’t know Maria’s story. I can’t say it enough, I LOVE this Little People series! These nonfiction stories are inspiring and informative for preschoolers.
Thank you so much to Quarto Publishing Group and NetGalley for access to these adorable titles!
Thank you so much to Quarto Publishing Group and NetGalley for access to these adorable titles!
January 12, 2023
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
I am a big fan of this woman and what she achieved for children around the world. She definitely changed and added new ways to teaching to helping kids learn. And so I had to read this book as I have loved others in the same series.
In this one we get a quick look at Maria’s life from childhood to when she is older and has achieved many things. We see how this girl is strong-willed, eager to study but in her way, and how she pushed through to get where she wanted. I loved that she did all those things for the children and it made me even more happy seeing it all work out. See those kids soak up all they are learning. Because learning isn’t about pushing words and numbers into your head, it is also about making it fun. To make it a game.
It is a very basic introduction into this woman’s life and what she achieved, but I feel that the author/illustrator both conveyed the most important things.
The art was pretty nice.
All in all, if you want to know more about Maria Montessori be sure to check out this picture book.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I am a big fan of this woman and what she achieved for children around the world. She definitely changed and added new ways to teaching to helping kids learn. And so I had to read this book as I have loved others in the same series.
In this one we get a quick look at Maria’s life from childhood to when she is older and has achieved many things. We see how this girl is strong-willed, eager to study but in her way, and how she pushed through to get where she wanted. I loved that she did all those things for the children and it made me even more happy seeing it all work out. See those kids soak up all they are learning. Because learning isn’t about pushing words and numbers into your head, it is also about making it fun. To make it a game.
It is a very basic introduction into this woman’s life and what she achieved, but I feel that the author/illustrator both conveyed the most important things.
The art was pretty nice.
All in all, if you want to know more about Maria Montessori be sure to check out this picture book.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
March 26, 2019
I don't know what happened here, but this book is pretty weak. Some of the issues may stem from it being an ARC (there's some text on one of the pages that appears pretty random, and it's placed where it's almost unreadable... and the biographical information at the back is about Muhammad Ali!), but there are some issues with the writing itself (which could be translation problems) and I really wasn't a fan of the illustrations.
While I like the idea of this series, I've only really liked one of the three books I've read in it so far. Maybe these just aren't for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.
While I like the idea of this series, I've only really liked one of the three books I've read in it so far. Maybe these just aren't for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.
January 18, 2020
This is one of the more successful of this series of books for me. It does a pretty good job of telling Maria Montessori's life from childhood to teacher to educational leader. It does romanticize and simplify Montessori's teachings and philosophies a bit, but in a way that's likely to inspire kids. As always, the art is nice. As someone who attended a Montessori school in childhood and also used Montessori methods as part of homeschooling my own kids, I'm not sure I'd make it sound as play-based as the author does. A Montessori childhood is child-led and full of benefits, but some critics challenge that it is rather devoid of play (particularly fantasy play). There are stations where kids learn the proper way polish silver or peel a carrot, for goodness sake. :) That's fine, they love doing it, but it's oversimplifying to an extreme to say that Montessori taught that kids should just play. That's not the case, but it could look that way to an outsider.
In any case, the message itself is great. It's a good book, and nobody is going to expect a full biography in a children's board book. Recommended.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.
In any case, the message itself is great. It's a good book, and nobody is going to expect a full biography in a children's board book. Recommended.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.
April 23, 2019
Maria Montessori is a great choice for the Little People, Big Dreams series. As with all the others, it gives a condensed and accessible account of Maria Montessori's life for young children. She was born in Italy when girls didn't receive the same type of education as boys. As well, the majority of instruction and learning was rote, boring. There was little or no opportunity for creativity or person discovery. After dealing with a lot of barriers, she studied to become the first female in Italy to become a doctor. Working with disabled children, she developed new teaching methods to help them reach their potential. Ideas that are still used today to help children become curious and responsible human beings. This is a great addition to the series, as this informative book gives children the opportunity to learn about someone who worked hard, persevered and dedicated their lives to helping others. Once again the quirky illustrations added much to the story and give the reader/listener a lot to discuss. This series gives today's children many positive role models as well as inspiration to this generation to change the world. I recommend that this book and series be in all public and school libraries. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
July 23, 2022
Having been disappointed by a few other titles in this series, I was pleasantly surprised to find the Montessori installment did justice to its inspiration. The illustrations are charming, give a sense of the time period, and even indicate the wide reach of Montessori schools, which have an incredibly global reach.
Vegara highlights Montessori's work with disabled children, and how that inspired her to make her methods wide-ranging. It boggles my mind how some people still don't grasp the full humanity of children, but knowing Montessori and her methods have personally convicted people otherwise helps me sleep easier.
Some young readers may be troubled by the depiction of medical school examinations of a cadaver (Montessori had to do it alone, prevented from viewing with her male colleagues in med school). Only the feet are shown, with a sheet covering the rest of the body, but this is a skippable page for any readers who might not want to be introduced to that part of science yet.
Overall, I'm very pleased by this lovely biography of an incredibly compassionate and impactful woman.
Vegara highlights Montessori's work with disabled children, and how that inspired her to make her methods wide-ranging. It boggles my mind how some people still don't grasp the full humanity of children, but knowing Montessori and her methods have personally convicted people otherwise helps me sleep easier.
Some young readers may be troubled by the depiction of medical school examinations of a cadaver (Montessori had to do it alone, prevented from viewing with her male colleagues in med school). Only the feet are shown, with a sheet covering the rest of the body, but this is a skippable page for any readers who might not want to be introduced to that part of science yet.
Overall, I'm very pleased by this lovely biography of an incredibly compassionate and impactful woman.
February 21, 2019
The things you learn by reading this little series of picture books for young children. I didn't know that Maria Montessori was a woman. I had always admired the MOntessori schools, and I find it heartening that a woman had the foresight to come up with them.
It is a very small book, so there isn't a lot of room to cram in info, but what they did include about her worked with the disabled, and how she was the first woman to go to medical school, in in Italy.
It is a quick look at a famous woman, and hopefully this quick a look will make it easier for a bunch of other states.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
It is a very small book, so there isn't a lot of room to cram in info, but what they did include about her worked with the disabled, and how she was the first woman to go to medical school, in in Italy.
It is a quick look at a famous woman, and hopefully this quick a look will make it easier for a bunch of other states.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
February 27, 2026
I really love the books in this series and I am genuinely delighted when a new book is released!
This was an inspirational book about Maria Montessori that teaches children to think outside the box, push the envelope and follow their dreams. This is another great book to add to the Little People, Big Dreams collection!
It is 4 stars from me for this one, very highly recommended and can't wait for my daughter to get involved in the series!!
This was an inspirational book about Maria Montessori that teaches children to think outside the box, push the envelope and follow their dreams. This is another great book to add to the Little People, Big Dreams collection!
It is 4 stars from me for this one, very highly recommended and can't wait for my daughter to get involved in the series!!
February 21, 2019
Another addition to the Little People collection. Wonderful illustrations add to the story about a woman who wanted to gain a proper education herself and help children to learn.
June 18, 2024
? Boekje uit de serie met bekende personen
🤔Aardig boekje over de eerste Italiaanse vrouw die dokter werd en daarna les ging geven en daarbij bedacht hoe dat met meer vrijheid, speelser kon.
MW18/6/24
🤔Aardig boekje over de eerste Italiaanse vrouw die dokter werd en daarna les ging geven en daarbij bedacht hoe dat met meer vrijheid, speelser kon.
MW18/6/24
Read
March 17, 2022Short informative little book, beautifully written and illustrated.
January 24, 2022
Zu Maria Montessori habe ich eine sehr besondere Bindung. Meine Mutter arbeitet als Erzieherin und hat sich schon vor ihrem Vollzeitjob als Mutter viel mit Pädagogik auseinander gesetzt. Maria Montessoris Konzept hat sie besonders angesprochen, weshalb meine Geschwister und ich einen Montessori Kindergarten besuchen durften. Eins meiner Abiturfächer war unter anderem Maria Montessori, so dass ich dann auch später in der Schule viel über die Hintergründe dieser Pädagogik lernen durfte.
Wie die Mutter, so die Tochter! Ich bin ein großer Fan von Maria Montessoris Arbeit. Ebenso mag ich die "Little People, Big Dreams" Reihe von Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara sehr, so dass für mich nur eine Frage der Zeit war, wann ich mir diese schöne Ausgabe zulegen würden!
Im Rahmen des O.W.L.s. Readathons war es dann endlich soweit! Für das Fach "Herbology" brauchte ich ein Buch, welches mit dem Buchstaben 'M' anfängt. Also habe ich mir das Bilderbuch bei meinem örtlichen Buchhandel bestellt und an einem Morgen genossen.
Genau wie bei der Ausgabe von "Frida Kahlo" mag ich die Illustration und Erzählungsart hier sehr. Alles ist sehr einfach gehalten und doch individuell gestaltet. Diese Bücher kann ich jedem Leser ans Herz legen, der sich mit Helden und deren Lebensgeschichte auseinander setzen möchte und vielleicht nicht unbedingt langweilige 500 Seiten Biographien lesen möchte.
Ganz besonders zu empfehlen sind die Bücher natürlich den jungen Lesern! Die Autorin leistet hier eine hervorragende Arbeit, um Kindern zu zeigen, dass sie ihren Weg gehen sollen und Träume verfolgen.
5 von 5 Sterne
Wie die Mutter, so die Tochter! Ich bin ein großer Fan von Maria Montessoris Arbeit. Ebenso mag ich die "Little People, Big Dreams" Reihe von Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara sehr, so dass für mich nur eine Frage der Zeit war, wann ich mir diese schöne Ausgabe zulegen würden!
Im Rahmen des O.W.L.s. Readathons war es dann endlich soweit! Für das Fach "Herbology" brauchte ich ein Buch, welches mit dem Buchstaben 'M' anfängt. Also habe ich mir das Bilderbuch bei meinem örtlichen Buchhandel bestellt und an einem Morgen genossen.
Genau wie bei der Ausgabe von "Frida Kahlo" mag ich die Illustration und Erzählungsart hier sehr. Alles ist sehr einfach gehalten und doch individuell gestaltet. Diese Bücher kann ich jedem Leser ans Herz legen, der sich mit Helden und deren Lebensgeschichte auseinander setzen möchte und vielleicht nicht unbedingt langweilige 500 Seiten Biographien lesen möchte.
Ganz besonders zu empfehlen sind die Bücher natürlich den jungen Lesern! Die Autorin leistet hier eine hervorragende Arbeit, um Kindern zu zeigen, dass sie ihren Weg gehen sollen und Träume verfolgen.
5 von 5 Sterne
February 22, 2019
Another absolutely charming addition to the Little People, BIG DREAMS range.
Maria Montessori was the first woman to study medicine in Italy, I had no idea ! I’m sure nearly every one has heard of Montessori schools but her background was unknown to me, so while this is a children’s book it’s full of information using simple language and such beautiful naive illustrations, it’s educational too. It will appeal to all ages and as the book says “for the children of today are the makers of tomorrow “.
I would like to thank the Author/the Publishers/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
Maria Montessori was the first woman to study medicine in Italy, I had no idea ! I’m sure nearly every one has heard of Montessori schools but her background was unknown to me, so while this is a children’s book it’s full of information using simple language and such beautiful naive illustrations, it’s educational too. It will appeal to all ages and as the book says “for the children of today are the makers of tomorrow “.
I would like to thank the Author/the Publishers/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
January 11, 2020
Maria Montessori by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is another addition to the always popular series Little People BIG DREAMS. As per usual, the simplified text and colourful and detailed illustrations work in harmony to create an educational biography that is both accessible and aesthetically pleasing to even the very youngest of readers. I am looking forward to adding this latest entry into my ever growing collection of this wonderful series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for this ARC.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for this ARC.
February 27, 2019
I love "Maria Montessori" from the Little People, Big Dreams series. As expected, wonderful illustrations with an interesting Montessori's mini bio for children. This is probably one of the easier reads in this series for little kids as they could easily relate themselves to the text- using fun and innovative ways to learn.
January 4, 2022
I adore this book. I have a friend who teaches at Montessori and I bought this book for her and her daughter. My friend's daughter is autistic and that's partly why my friend starting working for Montessori--to make sure her daughter got excellent attention and care. This book is so cute and inspiring and I hope my friend loves it.
March 22, 2019
Another charming book in the Little People series and it tells the story of Maria Montessori. Her philosophy in regards of teaching is amazing and shows that the "one size fits all"-mentality doesn't always work in regards of teaching children.
June 15, 2019
Maria Montessori (Little People, Big Dreams) by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara, Raquel Martin
She changed the way we perceived children learn.
She changed the way we perceived children learn.
February 3, 2020
This book is filled with beautiful illustrations and easy to understand story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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