Rudolf Nuréiev

Little People, BIG DREAMS

by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara, Eleonora Arosio

Rudolf Nuréiev (1938-1993) fue un bailarín clásico que nació en la Unión Soviética y está considerado como uno de los mejores bailarines del siglo XX. Bailarín precoz, comenzó muy tarde sus estudios de danza debido a la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Reconocido mundialmente, pudo salir de su país para bailar en ciudades de todo el mundo. En uno de estos viajes pidió asilo político y se estableció en Europa. Fue director del Ballet de la Ópera de París, donde se convirtió en una celebridad. Enfermo de sida, su temperamento rebelde y altanero le ayudó a sobrellevar la enfermedad con valentía hasta su muerte a los 54 años en 1993.

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction, Biography, Childrens, Russia, Biography Memoir, History

32 pages, Hardcover

First published July 30, 2019

About the author

Maria 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...

Reviews

[Hilary · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book covers some of the basic facts about Rudolf Nureyev's life. I was surprised it missed out the fact that Rudolf was born on a trans Siberian train journey, it also gives no mention to the fact he died of aids.

On some pages his name is spelt Rudolf and some pages Rudolph, this series has so many mistakes and errors. Surely this should have been picked up on before printing.

I liked the way the book reinforces the fact that ballet is not just for girls but as often happens with these books I found the illustrations unappealing. The figures have been drawn like chunky Henry Moore sculptures, this didn't really work for people who would have been highly muscular and willow like and it didn't enable any ballet positions to be conveyed in the images.

The end notes also have omitted the fact he died of aids, it doesn't even mention he died before old age.

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series. I love that it focuses on a male ballerina. There is still a stigma today about male dancers and I found Nureyev's story inspiring and uplifting. He showed that passion coupled with hard work and determination can accomplish many things.

I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ARC 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.
Rudolf Nureyev has always inspired me. He definitely was part of a big change in the ballet world and I cannot but admire him for pursuing his passion and being the promoter of some very groundbreaking innovations at the time. Now I'm even more looking forward to checking out the movie about him!

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fine offering in one of my fave series (Little People, Big Dreams by Quarto) focuses on the life of dancer Rudolf Nureyev.

LATE-LIFE PURSUIT
Tells how he escaped a life of poverty — and relatively late in life at that — through ballet.

PROPELLED TO SUPER STARDOM
His incredible work ethic saved and propelled him into one of the most spectacular dancers and choreographers to ever live.

QUIRKY
Adore the quirky illustrations, with more detailed biographical facts at the end. Highly recommended! 5/5

Pub Date 30 Jul 2019.

Thanks to Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.

#RudolfNureyev #NetGalley

[La Coccinelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This entry in the series focuses on Rudolf Nureyev, the dancer. While I did enjoy it somewhat, I felt it was affected by some of the odd writing and illustration choices that plague some of the other books in the series.

The insistence on referring to "Russia" throughout will make it nearly impossible for many kids to understand the time period in which Nureyev lived. For much of his life, he didn't live in "Russia"; he lived in the USSR. Kids may want to know this little fact, because it helps explain why government handlers were following him in Paris, and why defecting was such a big deal. There's also a veiled reference to his sexuality, but absolutely no mention of the fact that he died of AIDS. It seems the tragedy of that time was deemed inappropriate for a children's book. (I'm curious as to how figures like Anne Frank and Marie Curie are handled. Do the books lead the reader to believe they died peacefully in their sleep as octogenarians?)

These particular illustrations seem an odd choice for a book about a bunch of ballet dancers. While they do have a sort of swoopy grace to them, the characters all look stocky and nobody has a neck. It's a rather odd choice, and not one I'm sure I agree with.

While this isn't a very in-depth biography, it could be a good starting point for readers who are interested in the subject in question. But that's all it really is: a starting point. Like many of the books in this series, it simply doesn't go deep enough. The timeline at the back of this one is rather sparse, which will necessitate more research on the part of the reader if they want a good understanding of the figure in question.

Thank you to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.

[Kaethe · Rating 4 out of 5]

#47 in my 365 Kids Books challenge and multi-year effort to get Goodreads to fix the Top Readers, etc. lists. For a fuller explanation see my review for 101 Amazing Facts about Australia You can see all the books on their own shelf.

Whereas the Rosa Parks disappointed me, I liked this one much more. Possibly because I didn't really know anything about Nureyev except that he was a notable ballet dancer. Not knowing better, I can't be disappointed over what is left out.

The books themselves are appealing: I strongly approve of the design and the art.

Library copy

[Silvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided with a digital ARC of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishing house, Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens, in exchange for an honest review

I was so excited to read this little book. I think this series is just stunning, it really makes approachable the greatest figures in history to children.
I love Nureyev's life, and the illustrations just made it even more amazing. I love how simple yet how elegant they were. And I loved the main message to not be defined by things "created for a gender or another." I can't wait to read more of these books, cause they bring such joy and positivity to the little ones, and at the same time they educate them.
Really cute.

[Etienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another not-so-well know person that this collection put into the light. An interesting character, life and choice that can help people believe in their dream and not being afraid of doing what they like even if their parent, family or entourage find it weird or inappropriate! Not a big fan of the artwork here, but still a solid book. Like it!

[Martina · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 little one here tells the story of Rudolf Nureyev, one of the greatest male ballet dancer of his generation. I loved the messages that if you have passionand determination you can accomplish everything, and that gender means nothing at all, you can do everything you like regardless being a male of female.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found the illustrations distracting for a book that was written about a powerful and graceful dancer; while they were rather swoopy, the pictures were also blobby and heavy. How could these people fly and float and leap and pirouette?

A very very basic beginning (how far can I hedge this?) look at Nureyev's life; a good stepping off point to digging deeper. Doesn't discuss whom he loved or how he died, if that sort of thing troubles you. Nor does it discuss why he felt so compelled to leave "Russia" which altogether negates the seriousness of the situation and kind of makes him seem like a scamp playing hide-and-seek with his keepers, bent on frivolity and enjoying France's food and fun. Rather wished the life and death nature here could have been stressed a bit more!

[Louise Bath · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️½

A very interesting introduction to the life of Rudolf Nureyev, a charming little book made even more so by the illustrations, which reminded me enormously of the work of the wonderful Beryl Cook.

[Radclyffe U-Haul · Rating 3 out of 5]

Only the very slightest nod to Nureyev being gay :-( ("he didn't want anyone to tell him how to dance, or who to love, anymore"). Not sure if that's just the usual children's book homophobia or if they were specifically worried that a children's story about a gay ballerino would reinforce stereotypes or w/e. The only partner of Nureyev's who's mentioned is Margot Fonteyn, his longtime professional collaborator. And his death (of AIDS-related inflammation) isn't mentioned at all.
The art is really cute though and the moral about "boy things" and "girl things" being bunk is important obviously.

[Paul · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nureyev seems an obvious choice for the series but will likely appeal to a small set of young readers. For as lithe as he was, the illustrator’s depiction of Nureyev and other dancers seems enlarged and blocky. The series continues to deliver added value through its backmatter of biography and photographs.

[thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are such beautiful and informative books for little and big people, because I didn’t know much about Rudolf I learned a lot here too ! Inspiring bedtime reads or for just inspiring little people at any time

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

[Little Red · Rating 3 out of 5]

I usually give these books 5 stars but I was really disappointed with the proofreading in this book, where Rudolf is spelt Rudolph on several occasions. I think that is just sloppy, especially as it is his NAME!!

[Bluebelle-the-Inquisitive (Catherine) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author: Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Illustrator: Eleonora Arosio
Age Recommendation: Early Primary
Topic/ Theme: Ballet, Perseverance, Biographic.
Setting: Russia and France
Series: Little People, Big Dreams

I enjoyed Rudolf Nureyev. Not one of my favourites in this series but it is still a good read. There is a clever choice in the art. Rudolf Nureyev's eyes are always a distinctive almost electric blue. While everyone else's are varying shades of brown, the same as their outlines. That eye colour is a perfect colour for the man himself, his eyes were stunningly gorgeous. Blue is a common thread throughout the book, especially colouring. There are lots of different colours used in the backgrounds. This leads to some serious legibility issues. The roses are a perfect choice for the end pages. Given the adoration, accolades and societal/historical that Nureyev held.

One of the interesting things to look at in the Little People, Big Dreams is how the pivotal and inescapable dark moments are handled. Think of Alan Turing and Frieda Kahlo both have dark moments that are discussed in their books. Rudolf Nureyev's dark moment is his 1961 defection from the USSR to France. The book frames it as he just didn't get back on the plane. Which to be honest is pretty accurate. He did refuse to fly back to the USSR after being pressured and others threatened to 'encourage' his return. It is handled in just the right way for young audiences. What I do wish had been included was his sexuality and his openly bisexual or gay relationships, he had long term relationships with men and women. Even if these aren't in the illustrated text it possibly should have been in the facts section.

While this is a lovely book for all I would see it is a perfect book for a child interested in ballet/dance or a son who wants to challenge or defy gender stereotypes. I will leave this review with the same lines that end the book.

Little Rudolf showed the world that there are not "things for girls" or "things for boys". Only things that you love doing with your whole heart.

[Francesca]

I've come to realise that, in this series, I especially love the stories of people who defied societies expectations and beliefs. Rudolf Nureyev is one of those people. I must admit, I couldn't help but think of Billy Elliot when reading this (I love that film). Basically, love what you love, no matter what anyone else says or thinks.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Rudolf Nureyev is a new young reader book in the Little People, Big Dreams series. Written by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara and illustrated by Eleonora Arosio, it's due out 30th July 2019 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint. Aimed at young readers, it's 32 pages, perfect for a storytime or classroom circle read. It'll be available in ebook and hardcover formats. I've reviewed a number of these titles previously and all of them have been delightful and exuberant little books which cover the lives of famous cultural, science, arts, and innovation icons while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail.

This series is really amazing for its accessibility and charm. The subjects are profoundly important people culturally and historically who have lived through often deeply difficult lives. How does one write them into a digestible and appealing format for very young children (and their caregivers)?

This particular book and the artist's finesse with settings and postures/expressions is truly charming. There are also number of subtle and reassuring messages about inclusivity, respect, passion for one's art, and doing what one loves.

I really love all of these books I've read and reviewed and can recommend this one unreservedly. In addition to the biography, there is a short additional bibliography/suggested reading list included at the end of the book.

Lovely book! Five stars

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

[Jessica Wilker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Biography Nonfiction
Reading Level: K-3

I enjoyed listening to this book, because before this I sadly didn't even know who Rudolf Nureyev was. I believe this is another great read for children because it is a great informational book with appealing pictures for them. This book could be a great read for children who aspire to be dancers some day because it gives the message, it doesn't matter who or what the dancer is, it matters what the dancer can do because all dancers deserve equal credit. I don't feel as though this book would be appealing to those who are not aspiring to be dancers, because I didn't find an overall message except for the coming of male dancers.

[Helen Ishmurzin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has special relevance for me because my 4-year-old son attends ballet classes and is absolutely thriving there. I’ve been on the lookout for a book with a male ballet dancer as a positive role model and the main character in a story. Now I’ve found one!

Nureyev grew up in poverty in Russia and early on developed a love of ballet. Even though circumstances meant that he was only able to begin formal training very late, at age 17, he went on to become a professional dancer and influential figure, known throughout the world for his talent and unique style.

The illustrations are almost abstract in their simplicity, with the figures, despite being ballet dancers, not drawn stick-thin, but almost shapeless, to the point that it’s difficult to distinguish between men and woman. But this is actually kind of fitting for a book whose message is ultimately “men and women are equal and should be given the same opportunities.”

The informative back matter details more of Nureyev’s life and includes photos of him at various stages in his career.

When there are so many books on the market about ballerinas (many of them very good ones of course), it’s delightful to discover a story centering around a male ballet dancer. And the fact that it’s true significantly adds to the appeal!

[Theediscerning · Rating 2 out of 5]

A so-so primer to the ballet great Nureyev, but one that tends to shirk certain issues, and not give nearly enough detail. The fact remains that while this book says Nureyev went against the shorts of Soviet ballet dancers in favour of unisexual western-styled tights, and showed the world feminine and masculine were arbitrary, it also ignores the simple fact of his homosexuality. That was a missed opportunity, surely – this series is about pioneers, and we only see the surface and the detail of his craft, and not the man's sexuality – or the problems he had when in self-imposed exile in France. Speaking of which, the artwork is so bad the plane that leaves without him actually looks more like a plane if you turn the page upside down; the design also commits the egregious sin of making the very skinny indeed Nureyev look fat in every pose. So the man could really have been served a lot better by this – I hope a passing adult is on hand to give the full picture once this oh-too-brief rendition has been read. Not a highlight for this series.

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the latest in a wonderful series for young children. In each nicely illustrated entry, is a story about a famous person, while at the end of each, there is a more detailed time line and photos. Each book shows the child that there is a world awaiting them that is full of possibility and that dreams matter. This book on Nureyev is no exception!

Readers will learn about how Rudolf fell in love with dance from the first time that he saw a ballet. Due to poverty and lack of resources, he was seventeen when he was accepted to ballet school. Young readers will find out about the ways in which Rudolf wanted to do things differently, his defection from Russia and the amazing, high leaping dancer that he was. Mention is also made of how there should not be particular dreams for girls or boys but dreams for everyone.

This book is a welcome addition to the series. Celebrate dance as you learn about Nureyev. Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto for this read in exchange for an honest review.

[Myndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Original review can be found on my blog: Mad Book Love

I honestly don’t know how I could love this series any more than I already do, yet with every installment, I find myself blown away. Little People, Big Dreams, is a brilliant, much needed series for young children, with each edition presenting an important (but not always well-known) person who has made a difference in the world. This time, we are introduced to Rudolf Nureyev, a ballet dancer from Russia, whose passion and dedication transformed ballet for male dancers around the world. I was unfamiliar with Rudolf Nureyev prior to reading this book, but in a few short pages, I have learned a great deal about who he was and what an important contribution he made.

This little book teaches lessons about passion, perseverance, and reminds us all that all things are for all people. Wonderful lessons every child will benefit from.

A must read!

Note: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I pride myself on writing fair and honest reviews.

[Wayne McCoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Rudolf Nureyeve' by Ma Isabel Sanchez Vegara with illustrations by Eleanora Arosio is part of the Little People, Big Dreams series of picture books for young readers.

Rudolf fell in love with dance as a young child. While other kids were playing hockey, he wanted to dance, but he couldn't enter ballet school until he was 17. He also wanted to change other things about dance, like the clothes he was supposed to wear. In his later life, he defected and brought his style of dance to the rest of the world.

Along with the text, there is a timeline and photos at the back of the book. The illustrations are nice and the figures are rounded, which complements the idea of dance and movement really well.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

[J. d'Merricksson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sanchez Vegara's Rudolf Nureyev explores the life of one of the world's most talented male ballet dancers. Though Rudolf fell in love with dance at a young age, he was unable to go to ballet school until he was practically an adult. This meant he had a lot of catching up to do! Rudolf worked hard, and excelled in his studies. He became a master of dance, and eventually, a choreographer. At the end is a section with more detailed information on Nureyev's life, suitable for older readers. Inspirational and educational both, this entire series is great, and full of delightful art to engage younger audiences!

***Many thanks to the Netgalley & Quarto Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful book that shows how you can follow your dreams.

Rudolf Nureyev fell in love with ballet at a young age but it was not viewed as a hobby or future job role that would be suitable for a boy, he ignored the comments and followed his dream to become one of the most famous ballet dancers in the world!

I love this series and this is another great, brief introduction to a famous name from the past. I hope the book encourages young children to disregard any prejudices and to just follow their hearts- 4 stars from me and looking forward to reading more from this fantastic series!

[Anca · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Little Rudolf showed the world there are not 'things for girls' or 'things for boys'."
All parents and children should live by this belief! Why should boys only wear blue and girls pink? Ever since having a boy and a girl, I fight with these stereotypes. And I teach them daily that they can do whatever and become whomever they want in life. It's books like this one that help me prove the idea to them.
Another great read from Ms. Sánchez Vegara and the Little People, Big Dreams series!
Thank you to Net Galley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing me with an e-book copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Jo]

Another wonderful addition to this growing series of books about influential figures in history. With all that is currently in the news about male dancers, this is one that needs to be read by anyone who thinks dancing is for girls!

Told in the familiar style of a picture book, Rudolf Nureyev has just the right ratio of text:illustration to engage a young reader and tells the story of a young boy who defied his father's wishes and worked hard to build his reputation throughout the world.

I would highly recommend anyone who has read other titles in this series to take a look at this book!

[Tina Izguerra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read nearly all of Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara's children's books. This book is no different than the rest. Rudolf Nureyev's story is an essential read for all children, especially in a time when gender stereotypes are openly challenged. The illustrations are lovely as always, and the method in which Vegara depicts his life story both at the beginning and more in-depth at the end are perfection. I truly appreciate her dedication to expanding children's books beyond talking animals and mindless jargon.

[Leonie · Rating 4 out of 5]

To be honest, I hadn’t heard of Rudolf Nureyev before, so I can’t judge how accurately this book portraits his life. But I think this is a book with a very important message. It tells kids that there are no ”girl things“ or ”boy things“, and that they are allowed to love whatever they want, no matter their gender. And, of course, that hard work and dedication will pay off eventually.

ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.