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Little People, BIG DREAMS
H.C. Andersen
I denne bogserie kan du lære de mest fantastiske mennesker at kende – fra kunstnere og musikere til designere og videnskabsfolk. Alle begyndte de som et barn med en drøm og endte med at opnå det mest utrolige.
Her er bogen om H.C. Andersen, den verdensberømte forfatter, hvis eventyr har tryllebundet børn og voksne over hele verden.
Den lille Hans Christian voksede op i en fattig familie og drømte om at blive en kendt og elsket kunstner. Han troede, at han ville finde lykken på teaterscenen, men hans talent lå et andet sted; i det skrevne ord. Han skrev om det nære og det fantastiske i historier som “Den grimme ælling” og “Den lille havfrue”, og han gjorde det på en måde, der taler til barnet i os alle.
Efter den inspirerende fortælling om H. C. Andersens liv er der en kort sektion med fakta og fotos.
Her er bogen om H.C. Andersen, den verdensberømte forfatter, hvis eventyr har tryllebundet børn og voksne over hele verden.
Den lille Hans Christian voksede op i en fattig familie og drømte om at blive en kendt og elsket kunstner. Han troede, at han ville finde lykken på teaterscenen, men hans talent lå et andet sted; i det skrevne ord. Han skrev om det nære og det fantastiske i historier som “Den grimme ælling” og “Den lille havfrue”, og han gjorde det på en måde, der taler til barnet i os alle.
Efter den inspirerende fortælling om H. C. Andersens liv er der en kort sektion med fakta og fotos.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
About the author
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
210 books163 followersYou 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 86 reviews
September 10, 2021
5★
“When people read Hans’s stories, they felt like they were hearing them out loud round the fireplace. They were new and familiar, funny and sad, and were about things both ordinary and fantastic.”
Even if, somehow, you’ve never heard his name, chances are you’re familiar with some of his stories, which have been translated into 125 languages and performed onstage and in films. Most of us have heard someone referred to as The Ugly Duckling of the group. I'd like to think those kids grew up to be swans.
Hans was born in Denmark in 1805 to an extremely poor family who had one treasure – a book of stories. The illustrator has shown a cover of something that looks like The Arabian Nights, which would have had plenty of tales to inspire a young fellow.
“Flying carpets, Arabian princesses, genies coming out of lamps… Every night, Hans would listen to his father’s readings, and once he fell asleep, all he dreamt of was being the hero of these wonderful fairytales.”
Hans started school, but when his father died, he was sent to be a weaver’s apprentice. Note all of the other children working.
“It was not the exciting life he had imagined.”
He loved all the street puppets, and we are told in the notes following the story that his mother worked in a theatre, so he acted out what he saw and performed for his mother, his audience of one.
Later, he moved to Copenhagen to try to break into theatre in any way he could.
“Hans tried everything: acting, singing, dancing…but all he got was a role as a troll.”
While he was waiting for his talent to be discovered, he wrote stories. His family had encouraged his imagination, and it paid off!
“One day, he showed one of his stories to the theater director. It was full of misspellings, but he found it just delightful.”
Time to go back to school, even if he was the oldest student in the class. He learned his lessons well and had begun to make a living as a writer when he had his heart broken.
“Riborg was getting married to another man.”
Rather than bottle up his feelings, Hans shared them in the wonderful stories for which he is so well known - and aren't we glad he did? (Not that I wanted him to have his heart broken.)
“There were stories of mermaids falling in love with princes, and ducklings dreaming of becoming swans.”
His stories became popular all over Europe and later, the world.
“But Hans’s highest honor was that every second of April—the day of his birthday—kids all over the world now celebrate Children’s Book Day.”
I didn’t know this, and it is actually International Children’s Book Day. (Of course I had to look it up!) For me, his name is enough to conjure up the magic of fairytales, and I can’t help hearing some of the music in my head from the little songs that have been made up about them.
The opening quotation and the information about him visiting the theatre where his mother worked come from the more extensive details at the end of the book. As always in these books, there are four photographs included of the real man.
This is a delightful addition to this informative, entertaining series, and I especially like the illustrations by Maxine Lee-Mackie. She's captured the wistful, hopeful nature of Hans as described in the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review from which I’ve share the illustrations and quotations.
“When people read Hans’s stories, they felt like they were hearing them out loud round the fireplace. They were new and familiar, funny and sad, and were about things both ordinary and fantastic.”
Even if, somehow, you’ve never heard his name, chances are you’re familiar with some of his stories, which have been translated into 125 languages and performed onstage and in films. Most of us have heard someone referred to as The Ugly Duckling of the group. I'd like to think those kids grew up to be swans.
Hans was born in Denmark in 1805 to an extremely poor family who had one treasure – a book of stories. The illustrator has shown a cover of something that looks like The Arabian Nights, which would have had plenty of tales to inspire a young fellow.
“Flying carpets, Arabian princesses, genies coming out of lamps… Every night, Hans would listen to his father’s readings, and once he fell asleep, all he dreamt of was being the hero of these wonderful fairytales.”
Hans started school, but when his father died, he was sent to be a weaver’s apprentice. Note all of the other children working.
“It was not the exciting life he had imagined.”
He loved all the street puppets, and we are told in the notes following the story that his mother worked in a theatre, so he acted out what he saw and performed for his mother, his audience of one.
Later, he moved to Copenhagen to try to break into theatre in any way he could.
“Hans tried everything: acting, singing, dancing…but all he got was a role as a troll.”
While he was waiting for his talent to be discovered, he wrote stories. His family had encouraged his imagination, and it paid off!
“One day, he showed one of his stories to the theater director. It was full of misspellings, but he found it just delightful.”
Time to go back to school, even if he was the oldest student in the class. He learned his lessons well and had begun to make a living as a writer when he had his heart broken.
“Riborg was getting married to another man.”
Rather than bottle up his feelings, Hans shared them in the wonderful stories for which he is so well known - and aren't we glad he did? (Not that I wanted him to have his heart broken.)
“There were stories of mermaids falling in love with princes, and ducklings dreaming of becoming swans.”
His stories became popular all over Europe and later, the world.
“But Hans’s highest honor was that every second of April—the day of his birthday—kids all over the world now celebrate Children’s Book Day.”
I didn’t know this, and it is actually International Children’s Book Day. (Of course I had to look it up!) For me, his name is enough to conjure up the magic of fairytales, and I can’t help hearing some of the music in my head from the little songs that have been made up about them.
The opening quotation and the information about him visiting the theatre where his mother worked come from the more extensive details at the end of the book. As always in these books, there are four photographs included of the real man.
This is a delightful addition to this informative, entertaining series, and I especially like the illustrations by Maxine Lee-Mackie. She's captured the wistful, hopeful nature of Hans as described in the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review from which I’ve share the illustrations and quotations.
March 13, 2021
Thank you for such an amazing picture book biography of the best fairytale writer of all times!
The illustrations are unique and something we can all look forward to. It's comforting.
The lifestory of the author, his background and those who made it possible and what motivated him to write his stories have been captured in a beautiful, simple way apt for the target audience.
Love it.
Thank you, the Publisher and the author for the advance reading copy.
The illustrations are unique and something we can all look forward to. It's comforting.
The lifestory of the author, his background and those who made it possible and what motivated him to write his stories have been captured in a beautiful, simple way apt for the target audience.
Love it.
Thank you, the Publisher and the author for the advance reading copy.
April 5, 2021
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Hans Christian Anderson is one of the latest installments in the Little People Big Dreams series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara.
This book is beautifully illustrated and tells the life of a world famous children's author. I even learnt something new as I didn't know that world book day is a day to celebrate his birthday on the 2nd April.
Hans grew up poor and worked hard to fulfill his dream of writing after much heartbreak in his life. His love of books and imaginative stories is shown within this short story from a book his family had as a prized possession when he was a young boy.
This series is a lovely, inspirational biographical series for young children encouraging them to go after and chase their dreams and be whatever they want to be.
Hans Christian Anderson is one of the latest installments in the Little People Big Dreams series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara.
This book is beautifully illustrated and tells the life of a world famous children's author. I even learnt something new as I didn't know that world book day is a day to celebrate his birthday on the 2nd April.
Hans grew up poor and worked hard to fulfill his dream of writing after much heartbreak in his life. His love of books and imaginative stories is shown within this short story from a book his family had as a prized possession when he was a young boy.
This series is a lovely, inspirational biographical series for young children encouraging them to go after and chase their dreams and be whatever they want to be.
April 10, 2021
It's time again for another addition to the Little People, BIG DREAMS series.
I absolutely adore this series. These bite sized books give you enough non-fiction fodder to teach children (and adults!) all about famous people. This time around, Hans Christian Andersen.
So, I know a wee bit about this guy (famous fairy tale author), but I didn't know much! I was thoroughly looking forward to learn a little bit more about him without having to do some crazy research. Why not use an illustrated children's series to learn some more? It's a great resource and medium to learn from!
This book does give you a good background on Hans. The man is from Denmark and he had an interesting career path before he wrote his own stories. I wish there was a little more meat to the story though. It only gave two pieces of information to go off of... It was quite short and stale, compared to the other books in this series.
I think reading the little biographies through this medium is excellent! Honestly, I love getting to learn more from these books. When I was a kid, I would have eaten these books up (not literally... that sounds like a book Hans might write, eek).
My biggest comment for this one: The pictures are WEIRD. Normally, the illustrations vary from book to book. Sometimes they are beautiful, sometimes they aren't the best, but this one was down right weird. I know this guy was a bit of an odd ball (look at the stories he wrote) but... it kind of sat weird with me. This is definitely someone's style and vibe, but not mine!
Two out of five stars. This book didn't give as much as the rest of this series did. It kind of let me down! I want more content. This felt watered down and lacked a lot of content.
Thank you to NetGalley, Quarto Publishing Group and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
I absolutely adore this series. These bite sized books give you enough non-fiction fodder to teach children (and adults!) all about famous people. This time around, Hans Christian Andersen.
So, I know a wee bit about this guy (famous fairy tale author), but I didn't know much! I was thoroughly looking forward to learn a little bit more about him without having to do some crazy research. Why not use an illustrated children's series to learn some more? It's a great resource and medium to learn from!
This book does give you a good background on Hans. The man is from Denmark and he had an interesting career path before he wrote his own stories. I wish there was a little more meat to the story though. It only gave two pieces of information to go off of... It was quite short and stale, compared to the other books in this series.
I think reading the little biographies through this medium is excellent! Honestly, I love getting to learn more from these books. When I was a kid, I would have eaten these books up (not literally... that sounds like a book Hans might write, eek).
My biggest comment for this one: The pictures are WEIRD. Normally, the illustrations vary from book to book. Sometimes they are beautiful, sometimes they aren't the best, but this one was down right weird. I know this guy was a bit of an odd ball (look at the stories he wrote) but... it kind of sat weird with me. This is definitely someone's style and vibe, but not mine!
Two out of five stars. This book didn't give as much as the rest of this series did. It kind of let me down! I want more content. This felt watered down and lacked a lot of content.
Thank you to NetGalley, Quarto Publishing Group and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
March 12, 2021
Who doesn't know Hans Christian Andersen? His tales lit up my childhood, and next to Enid Blyton, he was the most commonly present author in my collections. But I never knew anything about his background so reading this little book was an eye-opener. It is amazing to see how his creativity helped him overcome his childhood struggles, how he became such a prolific writer in spite of not having receive schooling in his formative years, how he used his real life experiences to create more fantastical stories. Parents will enjoy taking the nostalgic look at the beloved author. And I hope children will read this title and yearn to know more it Hans Christian Andersen through his books. His stories are evergreen, and this book deservedly gives him the credit. Absolutely enjoyed reading this picture book.
The illustrations are decent, though they seem to be very different in style from the rest of the titles in this series. I’m not a huge fan of pasty white faces and red rouged cheeks when it comes to illustrations, so I didn’t really enjoy that aspect of the human figures. But the overall design of each page (except the human elements) is superb.
Thank you, NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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The illustrations are decent, though they seem to be very different in style from the rest of the titles in this series. I’m not a huge fan of pasty white faces and red rouged cheeks when it comes to illustrations, so I didn’t really enjoy that aspect of the human figures. But the overall design of each page (except the human elements) is superb.
Thank you, NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
June 22, 2021
I absolutely love the Little People, Big Dreams Books and this is one of my favourites. First, I absolutley love that cover. Look closely at the book that Hans is holding, amazing. I think everyone has heard of Hans Christian Andersen, but I had no idea of what his life had been like. There is one line in the book that I loved, They had one precious jewel that they kept carefully in the cupboard: A Book For this bookworm, that broke my heart. This family was not well off, but a they considered a book of fairytales that Hans' dad read to him nightly, a precious jewel. Is it no wonder that he made up stories of his own and wrote them down. Hans had a tough life, quitting school quite young to work when his father died. He had problems writing his stories with terrible spelling but he overcame it, what a great message for our kids today. This is a very inspirational story and one that had me off trying to find out more about the amazing author. As always, there is a timeline at the back of the book with some more information that can be shared with older readers. As an aside, some of his most famous stories include: The Emperor's New Clothes, The Little Mermaid, The Nightingale, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, The Red Shoes, The Princess and the Pea, The Snow Queen, The Ugly Duckling, The Little Match Girl, and Thumbelina. How many of these have you read? The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
April 21, 2021
5☆ A Very Informative and Special Children's Picture Book.
What a special book, highlighting Hans Christian Andersen wonderful life and how he created so much joy in his books.
I didn't know that Children's Book Day was dedicated to him celebrating his Birthday.
You truly are never too old or young to learn!
The illustrations are beautifully created. The story is engaging and gives an insight into Hans life and how he became a writer through his emotions.
As always the back of the book gives a brief time line of his life and some interesting knowledge about Hans, making for some good reference material.
Overall another delightful children's in the series, honouring the iconic Hans Christian Andersen.
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
What a special book, highlighting Hans Christian Andersen wonderful life and how he created so much joy in his books.
I didn't know that Children's Book Day was dedicated to him celebrating his Birthday.
You truly are never too old or young to learn!
The illustrations are beautifully created. The story is engaging and gives an insight into Hans life and how he became a writer through his emotions.
As always the back of the book gives a brief time line of his life and some interesting knowledge about Hans, making for some good reference material.
Overall another delightful children's in the series, honouring the iconic Hans Christian Andersen.
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 10, 2021
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.
This volume right here is about the famous fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen. I'm sure children all over the world are quite familiar with his stories and this book would be a great way for them to learn about the man who created them. I highly recommend this one!
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 volume right here is about the famous fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen. I'm sure children all over the world are quite familiar with his stories and this book would be a great way for them to learn about the man who created them. I highly recommend this one!
March 28, 2021
Another entry in one of our favorite picture book series. If you haven't checked out the Little People, Big Dreams series, I highly recommend it. These picture books are a perfect way for elementary school aged kids to learn about famous and inspiring people.
In this book, the kids can learn about Hans Christian Andersen who was born in Denmark in the 1860's. His family was working class and Hans' most cherished item growing up was a book of fairy tales. Hans was forced to quit school and start working as an apprentice after his father died. Hans was still young so hadn't properly learned to write. This didn't stop him from pursuing his passion for writing his own fairy tales.
This book is full of delightful, colorful illustrations showing key moments in Hans' life. There are also additional materials at the end of the book like photographs and a timeline of Hans' life. Highly recommend!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
In this book, the kids can learn about Hans Christian Andersen who was born in Denmark in the 1860's. His family was working class and Hans' most cherished item growing up was a book of fairy tales. Hans was forced to quit school and start working as an apprentice after his father died. Hans was still young so hadn't properly learned to write. This didn't stop him from pursuing his passion for writing his own fairy tales.
This book is full of delightful, colorful illustrations showing key moments in Hans' life. There are also additional materials at the end of the book like photographs and a timeline of Hans' life. Highly recommend!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
March 18, 2021
Imagination Lasts Forever, is the Big Dream that Hans Christian Anderson has. He loves Fairy Tales since he was just a young boy. This enthusiasm never leaves him. He has a hard time, too because he is poor and must leave school and work a job he does not like. For a time, he goes to the big city, Copenhagen and joins The Royal Danish Theater. He can not make it as an entertainer, but that does not mean he forgets how to entertain! He goes back to his favorite way of expressing himself, and now he becomes the storyteller. He writes books most of us have heard of: The Ugly Duckling, The Little Mermaid, and The Princess and the Pea. His books are beloved forever more by Children and Adults of all Ages. There is just Magic in his Tales.
A really fun fact was they make April 2nd Children’s Book Day in his honor.
So, for the child in all of us, I recommend this book. It is Wonderful. The Illustrations are Terrific as always, and help show the love and passion Hans has for Stories.
This is a Little People Big Dreams Book that is another Fantastic Book to the Series. It is Great for Schools and Libraries to carry this, so children know how many ways the world is open to them. A book about loving to write books will help inspire our next author or entertainer.
Thank You NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Francis Lincoln Children’s Books for giving an ARC of this book. As always, I really appreciate it as I love these books.
A really fun fact was they make April 2nd Children’s Book Day in his honor.
So, for the child in all of us, I recommend this book. It is Wonderful. The Illustrations are Terrific as always, and help show the love and passion Hans has for Stories.
This is a Little People Big Dreams Book that is another Fantastic Book to the Series. It is Great for Schools and Libraries to carry this, so children know how many ways the world is open to them. A book about loving to write books will help inspire our next author or entertainer.
Thank You NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Francis Lincoln Children’s Books for giving an ARC of this book. As always, I really appreciate it as I love these books.
March 17, 2021
Another inspiring book in this wonderful, growing collection of ‘Little people, big ideas’. Aimed at young children there is enough to engage with adults sharing the experience of reading with our little ones.
The author manages to compress the subject’s life into these colourfully illustrated pages that the struggles and successes are outlined.
In Hans Christen Andersen we see an imaginative child growing to share his poetic story telling we classify as ‘fairy tales’ that went on to fire children’s imaginations long after the stories end.
Above all it is a book that shows the determination of the human spirit, the quest for education through reading and writing. He returned to school to overcome his appalling spelling and grammar. I particularly loved the picture of an overgrown child trying to sit at his school desk.
Finally, it promotes reading, a wider love of literature and celebration of the arts.
Many visit Copenhagen and the statue of The Little Mermaid, this simple book will ensure anyone visiting in the future will be ignorant of the author who shared his own love of reading.
The author manages to compress the subject’s life into these colourfully illustrated pages that the struggles and successes are outlined.
In Hans Christen Andersen we see an imaginative child growing to share his poetic story telling we classify as ‘fairy tales’ that went on to fire children’s imaginations long after the stories end.
Above all it is a book that shows the determination of the human spirit, the quest for education through reading and writing. He returned to school to overcome his appalling spelling and grammar. I particularly loved the picture of an overgrown child trying to sit at his school desk.
Finally, it promotes reading, a wider love of literature and celebration of the arts.
Many visit Copenhagen and the statue of The Little Mermaid, this simple book will ensure anyone visiting in the future will be ignorant of the author who shared his own love of reading.
March 11, 2021
I absolutely love this series of books, so I jumped at the chance to get an early copy of this one on Hans Christian Anderson in exchange for an honest review.
The first thing I noticed was the illustrations - they felt very 'Mr Punch' - considering its the same illustrator as other books in the series, this surprised me. I don't know if this was a conscious choice as the story is set in Denmark - and doing that to the images was in keeping with the style?? But I wasn't a fan. The illustrations backdrops were beautiful but the way it represented Anderson felt a little odd.
I genuinely didn't know that Children's Book Day is on his birthday - I really liked that and I liked learning something new.
I don;t feel like this book had much plot or much to say like the others in the series.
Definitely not my favourite, and hoped to learn something more and new about his life - I didn't!
The first thing I noticed was the illustrations - they felt very 'Mr Punch' - considering its the same illustrator as other books in the series, this surprised me. I don't know if this was a conscious choice as the story is set in Denmark - and doing that to the images was in keeping with the style?? But I wasn't a fan. The illustrations backdrops were beautiful but the way it represented Anderson felt a little odd.
I genuinely didn't know that Children's Book Day is on his birthday - I really liked that and I liked learning something new.
I don;t feel like this book had much plot or much to say like the others in the series.
Definitely not my favourite, and hoped to learn something more and new about his life - I didn't!
March 14, 2021
Review to be added to Amazon UK and US on 6th April 2021 - publication day!
I love the books in this series and always find something new in them.
This was a book that focused on a well known children's author who wrote some of the most well known books there are.
I knew about his books, but nothing really about the man himself so this was a great one for me
Lovely images and another great addition to the series - 5 stars from me for this one
I love the books in this series and always find something new in them.
This was a book that focused on a well known children's author who wrote some of the most well known books there are.
I knew about his books, but nothing really about the man himself so this was a great one for me
Lovely images and another great addition to the series - 5 stars from me for this one
March 17, 2021
While I generally love all the Little People big Dreams books, this one was somehow lacking. Certainly it gave us a snapshot of Hans Christian Andersen's life, but if you were unaware of his stories, this might all not make sense. And, because Disney has sanitized them, and those are the versions most are familiar with, they might not understand the point behind the little mermaid, who lost her voice, and her life because of love.
This might be a good book to explain his life, or touch on it, at least, for those who have read his fairy tales. There are actually better books out there, that are picture books, that delve just a little bit more into his fairy tales and how and what influenced them.
But, on a whole, a good introduction to the life of the man.
Thanks to net galley for making this book avialalbe for an honest review.
This might be a good book to explain his life, or touch on it, at least, for those who have read his fairy tales. There are actually better books out there, that are picture books, that delve just a little bit more into his fairy tales and how and what influenced them.
But, on a whole, a good introduction to the life of the man.
Thanks to net galley for making this book avialalbe for an honest review.
April 15, 2021
Thank you to Frances Lincoln Children’s books /Quarto Children’s and Netgalley for the earc to read and review.
What a sweet book on the one of the most imaginative people in history, his stories touch everyone, open up their minds to imagination as they did to him. I love how easy to read these stories are they get to the point and make it a fun and clear way to learn about someone important.
I loved that this was about Hans Christian Andersen his legacy will never end because his stories will always be relevant, I love that this books gets to showcase all about his life, his dreams and that it wasn’t as easy to get where he did.
I didn’t know all the facts within this story so it was really incredible learning about his early years, his school and his work years things that I didn’t really know much about. It’s so wonderful that children can learn about so many people in this way, with the beautiful illustrations and the facts being so easy to understand. I love it.
I did find there was one element of Hans’ life that got forgotten in this book and that was that he travelled to share his stories as children gathered around him in small towns. He was a very kind man who told his stories because he loved them. I wish that had been included, especially as in this story it says about his only audience was his mother but eventually it wasn’t just her.
I love this book, and I love this series. I will always recommend these to anyone not just to young children. You can learn so much about people in such short book like this.
What a sweet book on the one of the most imaginative people in history, his stories touch everyone, open up their minds to imagination as they did to him. I love how easy to read these stories are they get to the point and make it a fun and clear way to learn about someone important.
I loved that this was about Hans Christian Andersen his legacy will never end because his stories will always be relevant, I love that this books gets to showcase all about his life, his dreams and that it wasn’t as easy to get where he did.
I didn’t know all the facts within this story so it was really incredible learning about his early years, his school and his work years things that I didn’t really know much about. It’s so wonderful that children can learn about so many people in this way, with the beautiful illustrations and the facts being so easy to understand. I love it.
I did find there was one element of Hans’ life that got forgotten in this book and that was that he travelled to share his stories as children gathered around him in small towns. He was a very kind man who told his stories because he loved them. I wish that had been included, especially as in this story it says about his only audience was his mother but eventually it wasn’t just her.
I love this book, and I love this series. I will always recommend these to anyone not just to young children. You can learn so much about people in such short book like this.
March 16, 2021
| Review on Reader Fox Blog |
I've talked about Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara's Little People, Big Dreams series many times before on this blog. And it should come as no surprise that I picked up her Hans Christian Andersen story as well. I think the thing I love about this series of books so much is that there's almost always something new to learn. And maybe this is a call out to how little I know about all these amazing people of the past...but it's still fun to learn about them all the same.
Oh my goodness, I could cry at how much I loved reading the story of Hans Christian Andersen's life in this format. It was heartbreaking and inspirational in ways I personally had not imagined. And Vegara does a beautiful job of weaving all the pieces together. Honestly, I think if I were to ensure I owned any of her books, this would be my number one.
Hans was a storyteller from the beginning and that is something that I hold so dear to my heart. I guess it's really no surprise that I fell quite hard for this book.
Ah, me too, Hans. Me too.
Okay, but for real...I don't love the artwork. And, to be fair, I've never fallen in love with any of the artwork for these books. I really put this down to the fact that it's just not my style at all. But it's consistent throughout the series despite having multiple illustrators, this one featuring the artwork of Maxine Lee-Mackie.
I wouldn't say there's anything wrong with the artwork. It's definitely bright and beautiful. But I just don't care for it personally. And I don't really expect that to be the rule for anyone else. In fact, I kind of think a lot of kids will adore it. I mean, just look at how bright-eyed and eager Hans looks!
So, this is the part where I, as an educator who has regularly worked with kids who make multitudes of spelling mistakes (largely phonetic), the fact that Hans Christian Andersen persevered through his dream to tell and write stories despite struggling with writing and needing to go back to school at a much older age is so amazing. I legitimately do think that I will, at some point, buy a copy of this book for one of my kiddos.
There's something truly heart-warming to find someone who has struggled but was still able to succeed and recognize a piece of yourself in them. Especially in something like this. And I just...it gives me feels. I can't even imagine how much it might mean to someone who's struggled in their own school.
I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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It's never too late if you really want to learn.
I've talked about Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara's Little People, Big Dreams series many times before on this blog. And it should come as no surprise that I picked up her Hans Christian Andersen story as well. I think the thing I love about this series of books so much is that there's almost always something new to learn. And maybe this is a call out to how little I know about all these amazing people of the past...but it's still fun to learn about them all the same.
They had one precious jewel that they kept carefully in the cupboard: a book.
Oh my goodness, I could cry at how much I loved reading the story of Hans Christian Andersen's life in this format. It was heartbreaking and inspirational in ways I personally had not imagined. And Vegara does a beautiful job of weaving all the pieces together. Honestly, I think if I were to ensure I owned any of her books, this would be my number one.
Hans was a storyteller from the beginning and that is something that I hold so dear to my heart. I guess it's really no surprise that I fell quite hard for this book.
Hans spent his free time writing.
Ah, me too, Hans. Me too.
Okay, but for real...I don't love the artwork. And, to be fair, I've never fallen in love with any of the artwork for these books. I really put this down to the fact that it's just not my style at all. But it's consistent throughout the series despite having multiple illustrators, this one featuring the artwork of Maxine Lee-Mackie.
I wouldn't say there's anything wrong with the artwork. It's definitely bright and beautiful. But I just don't care for it personally. And I don't really expect that to be the rule for anyone else. In fact, I kind of think a lot of kids will adore it. I mean, just look at how bright-eyed and eager Hans looks!
It was full of misspellings, but he found it just delightful.
So, this is the part where I, as an educator who has regularly worked with kids who make multitudes of spelling mistakes (largely phonetic), the fact that Hans Christian Andersen persevered through his dream to tell and write stories despite struggling with writing and needing to go back to school at a much older age is so amazing. I legitimately do think that I will, at some point, buy a copy of this book for one of my kiddos.
There's something truly heart-warming to find someone who has struggled but was still able to succeed and recognize a piece of yourself in them. Especially in something like this. And I just...it gives me feels. I can't even imagine how much it might mean to someone who's struggled in their own school.
I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
| Reader Fox Links |
March 10, 2021
The fact this series has got so large there's no room in them any more to reproduce thumbnails of all the different titles is only one sign of its success. Here we get a snapshot of the life of Hans Christian Andersen, whose date of birth is now used for an International Children's Book Day, which I think was news to me. From losing his father and gaining an unwanted apprenticeship, to trying to perform and then needing to go back to school as an adult when starting to become a storyteller, we get all the encouragement that great things can come from humble beginnings, much as his folk tales would often allege. This, then, is a great example of the series – except once again I have to say the artwork is horrendous. Every now and again they throw a curveball at the design, and this is one of those times. The real photos of the real man at the end show he did have rather the pronounced nose, but there's little reason for everyone to look as if they're halfway to becoming a vampire. Four stars for the script, much, much less for the really off-putting illustrations.
A slightly older audience can see the same story done with so much more visual appeal – https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A slightly older audience can see the same story done with so much more visual appeal – https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
April 4, 2021
Hans Christian Andersen is another great book in Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara's Little People, Big Dreams series. I have enjoyed his stories for many years, especially The Red Shoes (I loved Kate Bush's version/film clip of that story!). This version introduced young readers to Hans' fairy tales and the background behind his success as a writer. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy.
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April 5, 2021It is very fitting that one of the world’s greatest storytellers has his own story told in a book for the very children who he wrote his books for.
Born in Denmark, little Hans was not privy to luxury and every penny was carefully accounted for.
But there was one priceless thing in the family home…a book, and Hans loved it when his father would read him stories of magical objects, faraway places and flying carpets. Inspired by street performers, Hans wanted to perform on stage and help retell the stories written by others. But when that didn’t work out he wrote stories of his own. And these stories would be read by millions around the world…
The fairytales of Hans Christen Andersen are famous around the world and this lovely biography gives children a wonderful insight into how the boy who couldn’t spell or write Danish properly grew up to write some of the most well-known and well-loved children’s fairytales. Readers follow Hans on his journey from keen scholar to early drop-out after the passing of his father forced him to take a job as a weaver. He joins the Royal Danish Theatre before suffering another setback and was forced to re-evaluate where his talents lay. This lead to his rise as a storyteller.
Hans’ story is one of perseverance and finding the strength and motivation to bounce back from setbacks. And it would take a broken heart for Hans to unlock his wonderful words as stories of mermaids, princesses and princes, and ducklings and swans tumbled onto the page.
Delightfully illustrated with bright and bold artwork and with a story told in short and simple sentences, this is a wonderful celebration of reading, the joy that can be found in stories and the importance of the arts. Hans’ story serves as great inspiration for children with their own dreams of writing stories to entertain the world. The most valuable message that children can learn from Hans and his story is that you are never too old to learn. There is a charming image of an adult Hans sitting on a small chair at a small desk along with his younger classmates as he took lessons to learn to write and spell. At the back of the the book there is a short overview of his life which includes key facts and dates and a historical timeline featuring photographs.
Recommended for 5+.
With thanks to Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the advanced reader copy that was received through Netgalley.
Born in Denmark, little Hans was not privy to luxury and every penny was carefully accounted for.
But there was one priceless thing in the family home…a book, and Hans loved it when his father would read him stories of magical objects, faraway places and flying carpets. Inspired by street performers, Hans wanted to perform on stage and help retell the stories written by others. But when that didn’t work out he wrote stories of his own. And these stories would be read by millions around the world…
The fairytales of Hans Christen Andersen are famous around the world and this lovely biography gives children a wonderful insight into how the boy who couldn’t spell or write Danish properly grew up to write some of the most well-known and well-loved children’s fairytales. Readers follow Hans on his journey from keen scholar to early drop-out after the passing of his father forced him to take a job as a weaver. He joins the Royal Danish Theatre before suffering another setback and was forced to re-evaluate where his talents lay. This lead to his rise as a storyteller.
Hans’ story is one of perseverance and finding the strength and motivation to bounce back from setbacks. And it would take a broken heart for Hans to unlock his wonderful words as stories of mermaids, princesses and princes, and ducklings and swans tumbled onto the page.
Delightfully illustrated with bright and bold artwork and with a story told in short and simple sentences, this is a wonderful celebration of reading, the joy that can be found in stories and the importance of the arts. Hans’ story serves as great inspiration for children with their own dreams of writing stories to entertain the world. The most valuable message that children can learn from Hans and his story is that you are never too old to learn. There is a charming image of an adult Hans sitting on a small chair at a small desk along with his younger classmates as he took lessons to learn to write and spell. At the back of the the book there is a short overview of his life which includes key facts and dates and a historical timeline featuring photographs.
Recommended for 5+.
With thanks to Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the advanced reader copy that was received through Netgalley.
December 21, 2021
Author: Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Illustrator: Maxine Lee-Mackie
Age Recommendation: Early Primary
Topic/ Theme: Creativity, Writing, Biographic.
Setting: Denmark
Series: Little People, Big Dreams
Oh man the end pages, the end pages. They are so, so pretty and whimsical and becoming of the man. That stunning art style continues throughout the book. The art style alternates between the whimsical watercolour rainbow colouring and the grey colouring that reflects the darkness (at times) of Hans's reality. The thing that ties them together is the style of the people, a bright white face with a red blush and pointy noses. That distinctness could be off-putting but it isn't here. The art style is what makes this. It truly does make the story shine.
The story reflects some of the darkness of the poor and fatherless at that time. I think that it is done well, that balance of grim times and the happiness he found for himself. The creativity he showed is written well. There are mentions of some of his best-known works (accompanied by lovely illustrations). But as I said as much as I like the story it is made by the illustrations. Lee-Mackie was a perfect choice.
May 28, 2021
I adore every single 'Little People, Big Dreams' book that I read. However, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara outdid herself in writing this one about the insanely talented Hans Christian Andersen. The magic that HCA brought to his classic and timeless stories, Vegara brings to her book and are made even more enchanting by illustrator, Maxine Lee-Mackie.
The final page of the story genuinely made me tear up:
"By never hiding his feelings and letting his imagination fly, little Hans got what he had longed for: being loved. Not just by one single person, but by entire generations of children who know there is a swan inside each of us.
I highly recommend this book to young and old, and am so grateful to NetGalley & Quarto Publishing Group / Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to read and review it. (I preordered a hardcover copy the second I finished reading the galley.)
The final page of the story genuinely made me tear up:
"By never hiding his feelings and letting his imagination fly, little Hans got what he had longed for: being loved. Not just by one single person, but by entire generations of children who know there is a swan inside each of us.
I highly recommend this book to young and old, and am so grateful to NetGalley & Quarto Publishing Group / Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to read and review it. (I preordered a hardcover copy the second I finished reading the galley.)
May 28, 2021
I adore every single 'Little People, Big Dreams' book that I read. However, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara outdid herself in writing this one about the insanely talented Hans Christian Andersen. The magic that HCA brought to his classic and timeless stories, Vegara brings to her book and are made even more enchanting by illustrator, Maxine Lee-Mackie.
The final page of the story genuinely made me tear up:
"By never hiding his feelings and letting his imagination fly, little Hans got what he had longed for: being loved. Not just by one single person, but by entire generations of children who know there is a swan inside each of us."
I highly recommend this book to young and old, and am so grateful to NetGalley & Quarto Publishing Group / Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to read and review it. (I preordered a hardcover copy the second I finished reading the galley.)
The final page of the story genuinely made me tear up:
"By never hiding his feelings and letting his imagination fly, little Hans got what he had longed for: being loved. Not just by one single person, but by entire generations of children who know there is a swan inside each of us."
I highly recommend this book to young and old, and am so grateful to NetGalley & Quarto Publishing Group / Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to read and review it. (I preordered a hardcover copy the second I finished reading the galley.)
April 19, 2021
'Hans Christian Andersen' by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara with illustrations by Maxine Lee-Mackie is book 59 in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series.
Hans Christian Andersen was born poor in Denmark, but his family had one special possession: a book. He went to school to become a weaver, but his heart was elsewhere. He tried to get in to theater and when he wrote a story for his theater company. That started his path to becoming a beloved writer.
I loved the stories of Hans Christian Andersen as a child and I remember having a biography that I read numerous times. This is a pretty good adaptation of his life and includes some great colorful illustrations.
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.
Hans Christian Andersen was born poor in Denmark, but his family had one special possession: a book. He went to school to become a weaver, but his heart was elsewhere. He tried to get in to theater and when he wrote a story for his theater company. That started his path to becoming a beloved writer.
I loved the stories of Hans Christian Andersen as a child and I remember having a biography that I read numerous times. This is a pretty good adaptation of his life and includes some great colorful illustrations.
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.
June 19, 2021
I love this series! It shows how great people from different times and places became great, all starting out as a child with a dream. In the case of Hans Christian Andersen, that dream was to perform on stage. Unfortunately for him (but fortunately for the us), he got typecast as trolls and other monstery characters, so he decided to try his hand at writing, becoming one of the world's most beloved storytellers. The illustrations are quirky and fun, and the text is informative without being overwhelming. A biographical timeline follows the story, highlighting important events in Andersen's life. Definitely recommended!
#HansChristianAndersen #NetGalley
#HansChristianAndersen #NetGalley
June 5, 2021
Thanks to Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Francis Lincoln Children’s Books for their approval of my request to read and review this ebook.
The period-piece inspired illustrations really added to this beautiful version of Hans Christian Anderson’s life. Every Upper Elementary classroom should have a copy!
The period-piece inspired illustrations really added to this beautiful version of Hans Christian Anderson’s life. Every Upper Elementary classroom should have a copy!
May 7, 2022
Watered down. Yes, it’s a children’s book. BUT it’s written about an author who the story proclaims that Anderson knew “the best children’s stories don’t talk down to their readers.” 👎🏻 not a fan of this children’s biography series.
January 13, 2022
The art is really stunning but the writing seems really disjointed.
March 11, 2021
I love the Little People, Big Dreams series as a fun introduction to historical figures for my kiddos. They think they are fun and enjoy the vivid artwork. Han Christian Andersen is a favorite of mine and I actually already had a physical copy of this book saved on one of my Amazon book lists before I had the opportunity to request this ARC copy. Overall, the story was nice and was an enjoyable retelling. There were a few things, I didn't love. One of the art depictions had the backside of a naked man, which I'm assuming alluded to "The Emperor's New Clothes". He has written many stories though, so I really didn't feel they needed to highlight that one in a children's book, or with that graphic at least. The ending was a little off-putting too, reading that because he never hid his feelings and had a great imagination, he got what he always wanted. Besides disagreeing with this from a historical point of view, I don't love the message this gives to children. Learning emotional control is a part of maturing and sometimes our feelings aren't really justified, nor do they need to be expressed to everyone we come in contact with. Obviously it is appropriate in some cases, but the oversimplification of the statement really did not close the book well in my opinion. Also, sometimes you don't get what you want, even when you work hard, so the same is especially true for just expressing feelings. Again, this is all a matter of semantics, but it bothered me, nonetheless.
March 12, 2021
The story of this beloved storyteller's life has sadness, loss, overcoming and joy. Although he came from a family with a joy of reading, he was unable to finish school as a child and only was able to do so as a young man. From then on he put his dreams to paper and wrote stories that have been translated nearly everywhere and into every medium.
The illustrations are mostly simple and forthright with brilliant colors thanks to illustrator Maxine Lee-Mackie.
I requested and received a free temporary ebook from Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books/Frances Lincoln Children's Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
The illustrations are mostly simple and forthright with brilliant colors thanks to illustrator Maxine Lee-Mackie.
I requested and received a free temporary ebook from Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books/Frances Lincoln Children's Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
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