Hello, Little Dreamer

by Kathie Lee Gifford, Anita Schmidt (Illustrator)

A picture book about finding your passions and growing into God’s plan. 

Kathie Lee Gifford reminds preschoolers and elementary-aged kids that God has been dreaming for them since even before they were born. Some dreams reveal themselves quickly while others take time to develop, but each dream adds to the beautiful picture of who a child is becoming.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Christian, Inspirational

32 pages, Hardcover

Published October 13, 2020

About the author

Kathryn Lee Gifford (born Epstein, previously Johnson; born August 16, 1953) is an American television host, singer, songwriter, author, comedian, and actress. She is the co-host, with Hoda Kotb, of The Kathie Lee and Hoda Show, the fourth hour of NBC Today. She is best known for her 15-year run (1985–2000) on the talk show Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee, which she co-hosted with Regis Philbin. She has received 11 Daytime Emmy nominations and won her first Daytime Emmy in 2010 as part of the Today team. Gifford's first television role had been as Tom Kennedy's singer/sidekick on the syndicated version of Name That Tune, from 1974 to 1978. She also occasionally appears on the first three hours of Today and is a contributing NBC News correspondent.

Kathie Lee married Paul Johnson, a Christian composer/arranger/producer/publisher in 1976. After their divorce in 1982, she married sportscaster and former NFL player Frank Gifford in 1986. He died in 2015. Kathie Lee has released a number of studio albums and written a number of books.

For earlier works, see Kathie Epstein.

Reviews

[Everett Earles · Rating 3 out of 5]

My parents keep saying that they’ll support whatever I dream up. Currently though, I keep dreaming of being able to eat and all they offer me is a boob!! So I know they can’t be for real.

[Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book features stunning illustrations and a beautiful theme. It can be read to the youngest children while also resonating with adults. In these difficult times, I believe that nurturing children and their dreams is more important than ever. As a side note, especially if you are considering it as a gift, God is present throughout in a nondenominational way. Highly recommended!

This unbiased review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.

[The Film Director's Wife · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children's book was so precious!

Not only is it gorgeously illustrated, but the story is so beautiful as well, teaching children from a young age about the dreams God places in our hearts.

I love that it teaches that sometimes we have to wait on the Lord and His timing for those dreams to come true, but also how other times they are brought to life quickly.

It's a gorgeous tale that would be delightful to read over and over again.

I highly recommend this book for the little children in your life!

***Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the digital ARC of this book. All views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.***

[Abigail Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

With cute and colorful pages this sweet story encourages children to believe in their dreams, at the same time it has a reminder that some dreams take time to come true.

I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[K.A. Cummins · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars—A rhyming picture book with a great message. Wished there was a stronger hook to it, but overall a solid book. Loved the illustrations.

[Zibby Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

My two littlest kids loved this book. It explains to young children (toddlers and preschoolers) that God has a dream for them since before they were born. Some of those dreams show up quickly while others take time, but every single dream is just one part of the beautiful picture that child becomes. This book helps moms and dads celebrate their children's purpose in the world.

One passage was very inspiring and says, "If you're my age or getting close, it's probably been a long time since you last thought back to those days when you had dreams of what or who you wanted to be when you grew up. But it's time, friend. It's time to ask yourself, what would I do if I could? Toss out the phrases 'I can't' and 'I don't know how,' and start dreaming about the 'what-if' that might get you off that couch and back into something you want to do. Maybe me sharing my story will give you some perspective and do that for you." Then it says, "Are you ready? It's never too late to dream." It was so sweet; I loved it.

To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbyowens.com/transcript/kat...

[Cassie Troja · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I was provided a free copy of this book by the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own (and my kid's!).**
This book is *adorable*. My kids (5yo & 3yo) were captivated by the illustrations and the message. This book gave us a chance to talk about dreams and how God encourages us to dream. I love how this book talks about God planting dreams inside us because He wants wonderful things for us. It talks about how He wants all the wonderful dreams inside us to come true! While this lays a wonderful foundation for kids to start thinking about their dreams and futures, it's worth noting that our dreams don't always match God's (the book mentions that too). I have a lot of respect for Kathie Lee Gifford and her courage in being outspoken about her faith. This book only adds to my admiration for her as a mother and as a godly woman. I'm grateful for this book, it's biblical encouragement for little ones, and the beauty it adds to our lives. I look forward to reading it many more times as they grow!

[Rachel Kokes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello, Little Dreamer is a children’s book written by Kathie Lee Gifford.

This cute little story shares how God plants dreams in your heart before you are even born. It is a sweet reminder to children that God has a plan for your life, and He cares about you.

My Thoughts: The message in this story is one children need to hear. And, combined with the beautiful colors and adorable illustrations, it would make a wonderful bedtime read.

I liked it, and would definitely read it to my children.

I would like to thank Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was my privilege to receive a digital ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book is beautiful and tells an important message for kids everywhere. Each of us were uniquely designed by God for a great purpose. To know how special He considered us can inspire us to dream big dreams.

I appreciated the length of the book which was a tad longer than many books for children. The verse is extremely engaging. To top off the wonderful story, the illustrations are fantastic - representing kids of every culture.

This would be an excellent gift for our kids and grandkids.

[Karen McG · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello, Little Dreamer is an adorable picture book for children. Each page is beautifully illustrated to catch even the smallest child’s eye. The words are just perfect to encourage children to follow the dreams that God puts on their hearts, but explaining that it does take time. These are words that I have always tried to instill in my own children. A perfect book for small children, but one they can refer back to in the years to come.
(I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for my honest review. Thank you #ThomasNelsonChildrens #ThomasNelson )
#netgalley
#HelloLittleDreamer
#KathieLeeGifford

[Becky B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A rhyming encouragement to kids that God gives each person unique dreams/passions/talents as part of His greater plan, so go ahead and pursue those things God has planted in your heart.

This is charmingly illustrated and written in excellent rhyme. There are other books out there about growing up to be who God wants you to be or pursuing your dreams, but none that I know of that specifically combine the two and talk about how God can plant those dreams in our hearts as part of your bigger calling. I liked that it pointed out that some dreams and skills come easily and some take time to grow. Highly recommended for Christian families and schools.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Hello, little dreamer' is a cute little story written by Kathie Lee Gifford. I love the purpose behind this book- to encourage kids to try new things, to follow their dream, and to know that God supports their dreams. I easily imagined Kathie Lee"s voice as I read this story. I've watched Kathie Lee Gifford through the years and I know that this is a story that means a lot to her as both an author and a person. The illustrations were gorgeous. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to share it with others.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love the children's books that Kathie Lee Gifford writes! Hello, Little Dreamer teaches kids of all ages that God places dreams inside of us that are unique to each individual. The author teaches that dreams take time sometime, but don't give up on them or God. I love that the author pointed out that God also dreams. The illustrations were beautiful. This book would be a wonderful addition to a family devotional or to be read in a classroom setting. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book! (This review is also on GoodReads.)

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this book is very God-centered rather than me-centered.
"You may know what you like, but do you really know why?"
"God planted these dreams way down deep in your heart..."
"Never let people tell you your dreams can't come true. Just keep doing those things that God wants you to do."

God has gifted and inclined each one of us in our own unique ways. Some take years before they are seen. But ultimately God's dreams He has planted in us will come true. This would be a great graduation gift.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tells children that God has a dream for them before they were born. Sometimes it happens right away, sometimes it takes longer, but that’s okay. It has a beautiful message for children. The illustrations are wonderful. I think the book is great for ages 4-8. When my grandchildren are old enough to understand, I will read this book to them. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson: Children’s for the E-ARC. This is my own opinion.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Thomas Nelson: Children through NetGalley.
Gorgeous illustrations support this tender story of God's love and plan for each child. Gifford encourages young readers to be brave and bold and follow their dreams. They will feel God's presence with them as they grow and explore.
Touching story for preschool and younger elementary readers though the message applies at all ages.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book! I adored this picture book. The illustrations and story were great. I just wish the word God was not used so much. I work in a Children's Room of a public library and in our community we have all different types of patrons with different beliefs and I don't know if this would be utilized because of the use of the word. I still thoroughly enjoyed the story! Thank you again!

[Elizabeth Nix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cute and uplifting book

Wow. Kathie Lee Gifford is truly an artist blessed by God. In this book, she writes that dreams are given and planned by God while we were growing in our mothers womb.

I love this. It is almost exactly what I tell my kids. I tell y kids that they can be whatever God calls them to be.

Thank you Mrs. Gifford for writing a strong book including faith in our Creator.

[saidthestory KIDS BOOKS · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really liked this. It had a wonderful rhythm and great illustrations. I was not expecting it to be religious, it gave no indication it would be religious at all. I have no problems with religious children's books, however, I do believe it should be clear that the story is religious as not all people practice certain religions or any at all.

Originally read as an e-arc via NetGalley - The tagline on Goodreads makes the religious element clear, however, it wasn't when I originally read it.

[Emilee (emileereadsbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Children's for a free digital copy for my review.

I love this cutesy style of illustration. It's one of my favorites. Plus the message of this book that God puts desires in our hearts and helps us grow to achieve them. It's what makes us unique and how God molds us into the people He wants us to be.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the illustrations in this book they were really lovely!

The story is easy to follow and whilst I am not religious it did not put me off reading it.

It was well written and had a really lovely flow to the story too

It is 4 stars from me for this one, it was a lovely little book to read and one I can see being treasured.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful book especially in this crazy time. Kathie has a way with lyrical tone and the basis is so true! Never give up on your dreams no matter how small or how big. Anita does a wonderful job of the illustrations being diverse and so precious. I highly recommend this book to any young child to help them find their dreams and to begin living them.

[Kathi Brennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet little book! The illustrations are beautiful and the message is so important. I love that KLG reminds the reader that God has know them from the very beginning. I cannot wait to share this book with the children in our bible study.

Thank you Kathi Lee Gifford, Thomas Nelson/ Harper Collins Christian Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC.

[Barbara Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an arc of this book, I am freely reviewing this book. I loved the way, Kathie Lee Gifford, shows children that God gave us all a purpose in life. This book encourages children to do new things, try the impossible, and above all, the love God has for us,ALWAYS. I really enjoyed this book, so did my grand children. I have bought this as a gift to them all, for Christmas!

[Ashley 🫧✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute Artwork

The artwork was cute and I like the message it delivered, mostly. I was not expecting this book to be so religious. I would have preferred a more secular approach, but that's just my personal opinion. Definitely cute though. 3 stars because this book was average, I read it once but probably won't read it again.

[Ayla Will · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello, Little Dreamer is full of adorable illustrations and easy-to-read rhymes. Each page teaches children about God's great plans for them and reminds them that they have always been a part of His "dreams". My children loved this book and I'm sure we will end up reading it many more times.

[Candice Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me cry. Tears of all the hopes and dreams I have for my own three children. This was the sweetest tribute to God and how He directs our paths and dreams. I can not wait to buy this book for my kids and read it over and over with them! This is a fantastic children’s book!

[Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first thought was: this is just another celebrity publishing a book, who cares. But I sat down and read the book and I was awed by it. The artwork is very good. This might even be a suitable gift for a graduate. This is a buyer!

[Sir Vicks of Steele · Rating 1 out of 5]

this book is heavy handed and lacks perspective. clearly, a very privileged individual wrote this. If I had seen it was written by a famous person I would never have picked it up. just because you're "good" at one thing you got a book deal. miss me with that.

[Tammy Winemiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book