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Little People, BIG DREAMS
Charles Dickens (Volume 70)
In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Charles Dickens, the influential author. When Charles was a boy he made up his own adventures. But after a Dickensian twist of fate saw his father go to prison for debt, Charles ended up working in a factory with other children. He worked his way out, trying his hand in a law firm, and then as an actor, before making a name for himself as a reporter and gifted storyteller. Charles became one of the most beloved novelists of all time, aware of the power of a tale and of giving poor children a voice. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the writer's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
4 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara
203 books447 followersMaria Isabel Sánchez Vegara, born in Barcelona, Spain, is a writer and creative director perhaps best known as the author of much of the Little People, Big Dreams series. Each book tells the childhood story of one of the world's female icons in an entertaining, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers, allowing them to identify with the characters in each story.
You may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
You may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 24, 2021
This biography of Charles Dickens is a new entry in the Little People BIG DREAMS series that presents biographies of so many cultural heroes and favorites, people that young children should become acquainted with. Many of the major points of his life and career are covered well here, including his early life followed by his father’s going to debtors’ prison and Charles himself having to leave school and turn to factory work. From there it follows Dickens’ path through to his writing and his serialized novels which eventually became known around the world. The book is fully illustrated, as are all the books in this series. There is also a brief biography with photographs at the end of the book.
I recommend this as an introduction to Dickens for a child who enjoys reading. And I suggest having a look at the wide array of titles available. You will likely be amazed.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I recommend this as an introduction to Dickens for a child who enjoys reading. And I suggest having a look at the wide array of titles available. You will likely be amazed.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 30, 2021
The ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss 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 little book here is about Charles Dickens, the renowned English author. I liked how the book talked about his life and also how it included some of his most famous works in the narrative. I really enjoyed reading this short book.
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 little book here is about Charles Dickens, the renowned English author. I liked how the book talked about his life and also how it included some of his most famous works in the narrative. I really enjoyed reading this short book.
October 13, 2021
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 book tells the story of Charles Dickens, one of the greatest English authors. I loved reading about him and watching the amazing illustrations. Dickens was a genius and a pioneer, and I'm happy children can find out about him in this cute way.
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 book tells the story of Charles Dickens, one of the greatest English authors. I loved reading about him and watching the amazing illustrations. Dickens was a genius and a pioneer, and I'm happy children can find out about him in this cute way.
November 10, 2021
Charles Dickens was so creative. He loved theatrics and acting. He found his true passion was writing about people though. His most beloved book is A Christmas Carol and is famous all over the world. He also wrote Oliver Twist.
I was not aware that he wrote his books in installments, releasing a chapter at a time. It was a terrific idea and got people so excited to get the latest chapter of his book. This was a new concept and made his writing even more popular.
This is a great story to know more about Charles Dickens. It is obvious why he became such a beloved author by both children and adults alike.
I love the story and the photographs as well. These always add something special to this series.
Thank you NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Frances Lincoln Books for a copy of this book.
I was not aware that he wrote his books in installments, releasing a chapter at a time. It was a terrific idea and got people so excited to get the latest chapter of his book. This was a new concept and made his writing even more popular.
This is a great story to know more about Charles Dickens. It is obvious why he became such a beloved author by both children and adults alike.
I love the story and the photographs as well. These always add something special to this series.
Thank you NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Frances Lincoln Books for a copy of this book.
October 4, 2023
Charles Dickens is a wonderful author and has been part of my life since my time at school reading Oliver Twist in English and the social commentary in his novels highlighted in my British History studies.
Who hasn’t enjoyed Dickensian dramatic interpretations on the TV with wonderful names and memorable situations.
Here is a book in this great series: Little people, Big dreams, dedicated to Charles himself and how the boy became the man and the writer we all take for granted.
With simple text, accompanied by considered illustrations that have a consistent palette and complement the story.
Young Charles had a life of set backs but seemingly in each instance he was able to overcome disappointment and move forward with ambition and drive. He is an excellent role model, often it more easy to identify with failures rather than pushing on to achieve success. Charles Dickens bucks this trend by finding achievement rather than dwelling on broken dreams outside his control
What the author, love each and every book she has written, always seems to achieve are the key circumstances that show how an ordinary life can became exceptional. In Dickens’ life she taps into these negative influences. Having to leave school and work at a young age. Missing a great career opportunity due to personal illness.
However what I liked about this story is that his ambition and hard work before, being a keen student, being observant and wanting to better himself are highlighted. Seemingly he doesn’t allow the negatives to be excuses that limit his aspirations.
His writing was so successful because it was true to life, a life he faced himself through hunger, poverty and debt. He was a participant in life not just an observer.
Above all he had the heart of a story teller and that cardiac rhythm beats long and proud in this terrific book that will inspire and encourage our own children and grandkids.
Who hasn’t enjoyed Dickensian dramatic interpretations on the TV with wonderful names and memorable situations.
Here is a book in this great series: Little people, Big dreams, dedicated to Charles himself and how the boy became the man and the writer we all take for granted.
With simple text, accompanied by considered illustrations that have a consistent palette and complement the story.
Young Charles had a life of set backs but seemingly in each instance he was able to overcome disappointment and move forward with ambition and drive. He is an excellent role model, often it more easy to identify with failures rather than pushing on to achieve success. Charles Dickens bucks this trend by finding achievement rather than dwelling on broken dreams outside his control
What the author, love each and every book she has written, always seems to achieve are the key circumstances that show how an ordinary life can became exceptional. In Dickens’ life she taps into these negative influences. Having to leave school and work at a young age. Missing a great career opportunity due to personal illness.
However what I liked about this story is that his ambition and hard work before, being a keen student, being observant and wanting to better himself are highlighted. Seemingly he doesn’t allow the negatives to be excuses that limit his aspirations.
His writing was so successful because it was true to life, a life he faced himself through hunger, poverty and debt. He was a participant in life not just an observer.
Above all he had the heart of a story teller and that cardiac rhythm beats long and proud in this terrific book that will inspire and encourage our own children and grandkids.
March 31, 2022
Weil sich Bücher im Rudel immer wohler fühlen als allein, gab es natürlich auch noch die Ausgabe einer meiner liebsten Autoren: Charles Dickens.
Auf den bekannten 32 Seiten nimmt uns das Buch mit in die Kindheit von Charles Dickens, die so unglaublich prägend für seine spätere schriftstellerische Tätigkeit war.
Das Buch verknüpft wunderschön die Kindheitserinnerungen von Charles Dickens mit seinen ersten literarischen Figuren, in dem der Autor seine Romanfiguren auf den Comicseiten selber trifft, eine Umsetzung, die mir sehr gut gefällt.
Als Charles Dickens Leser erfährt man auf diesen paar Seiten nicht viel Neues und doch ist das Buch wie die anderen der Serie eine schönes Kleinod, in dem es sich zu blättern lohnt! (Ob du die Autorin wohl Bestellungen für weitere Autoren annimmt 😇?)
Wie immer, wenn ich etwas über Charles Dickens lese, bin ich hin und her gerissen, was doch letztlich mein Lieblingswerk von ihm ist.
Meistens tendiere ich zu "Eine Weihnachtsgeschichte", Scrooge mit seinem Geld zählen und seiner Verbitterung, die drei Geister, es ist für mich der Inbegriff von viktorianischer Literatur und dann denke ich an die Berichte, die er über London geschrieben hat. Denn er war auch für Zeitungen als Reporter tätig. Ein Mann mit vielen Facetten und trotzdem oftmals so zerrissen.
Jeder sollte einmal Charles Dickens gelesen haben und dieses kleine Buch bietet einen gelungenen Einstieg.
5 von 5 Geistern
Auf den bekannten 32 Seiten nimmt uns das Buch mit in die Kindheit von Charles Dickens, die so unglaublich prägend für seine spätere schriftstellerische Tätigkeit war.
Das Buch verknüpft wunderschön die Kindheitserinnerungen von Charles Dickens mit seinen ersten literarischen Figuren, in dem der Autor seine Romanfiguren auf den Comicseiten selber trifft, eine Umsetzung, die mir sehr gut gefällt.
Als Charles Dickens Leser erfährt man auf diesen paar Seiten nicht viel Neues und doch ist das Buch wie die anderen der Serie eine schönes Kleinod, in dem es sich zu blättern lohnt! (Ob du die Autorin wohl Bestellungen für weitere Autoren annimmt 😇?)
Wie immer, wenn ich etwas über Charles Dickens lese, bin ich hin und her gerissen, was doch letztlich mein Lieblingswerk von ihm ist.
Meistens tendiere ich zu "Eine Weihnachtsgeschichte", Scrooge mit seinem Geld zählen und seiner Verbitterung, die drei Geister, es ist für mich der Inbegriff von viktorianischer Literatur und dann denke ich an die Berichte, die er über London geschrieben hat. Denn er war auch für Zeitungen als Reporter tätig. Ein Mann mit vielen Facetten und trotzdem oftmals so zerrissen.
Jeder sollte einmal Charles Dickens gelesen haben und dieses kleine Buch bietet einen gelungenen Einstieg.
5 von 5 Geistern
October 12, 2021
This installment of the little people BIG DREAMS series is all about famous author Charles Dickens. I was not in the mood for picture books for a long time, so I didn't read more of this series, and I think this was the perfect one to get back into it.
I learned things I didn't know, about how he was born to rich parents who then fell down on hard luck, and thus made him see both sides of the coin. I would have liked to hear about how he actively worked in politics instead of just writing about people in poor circumstances, or that he was an avid spiritist, but I see that you can tell only so much on 32 pages. And this series always felt like a starting point, to get children hooked on the story so they might chose to pick up more books later on.
This goal will probably be achieved by this book.
In comparison to some other installments, the colour palette of this one felt muted and very appropiate to a time when the mist would get so thick we're still talking about it today.
I liked it and if I had a toddler in my life, they would be gifted this one.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
I learned things I didn't know, about how he was born to rich parents who then fell down on hard luck, and thus made him see both sides of the coin. I would have liked to hear about how he actively worked in politics instead of just writing about people in poor circumstances, or that he was an avid spiritist, but I see that you can tell only so much on 32 pages. And this series always felt like a starting point, to get children hooked on the story so they might chose to pick up more books later on.
This goal will probably be achieved by this book.
In comparison to some other installments, the colour palette of this one felt muted and very appropiate to a time when the mist would get so thick we're still talking about it today.
I liked it and if I had a toddler in my life, they would be gifted this one.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
December 19, 2021
This well crafted hardcover story book is volume 70 in the Little People, Big Dreams series and it features a mini biography of Charles Dickens, by Isabel Sanchez Vegara with illustrations by Isobel Ross.
Everything about this series is top notch starting with the binding which is hand sewn. It should last a lifetime with reasonable care. There are attractive endpapers and in this particular volume, the artwork is childlike, whimsical and perfectly Dickensian.
Altho’ the story is interesting in its own right, most of today’s kids aren’t going to understand the magnitude of what Dickens accomplished without a parent or adult participation. Reading a Dickens classic or perhaps watching one of his movies or plays, (Oliver/Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, A Take of Two Cities, David Copperfield, Great Expectations), would open their eyes to what life was like 210 years ago for kids. Most of those are available in black & white versions from “The Golden Era of Hollywood” as well as updated contemporary versions. That comparison could add to your conversations.
All things considered, a wonderful addition to any family library; highly giftable📚
Everything about this series is top notch starting with the binding which is hand sewn. It should last a lifetime with reasonable care. There are attractive endpapers and in this particular volume, the artwork is childlike, whimsical and perfectly Dickensian.
Altho’ the story is interesting in its own right, most of today’s kids aren’t going to understand the magnitude of what Dickens accomplished without a parent or adult participation. Reading a Dickens classic or perhaps watching one of his movies or plays, (Oliver/Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, A Take of Two Cities, David Copperfield, Great Expectations), would open their eyes to what life was like 210 years ago for kids. Most of those are available in black & white versions from “The Golden Era of Hollywood” as well as updated contemporary versions. That comparison could add to your conversations.
All things considered, a wonderful addition to any family library; highly giftable📚
October 11, 2021
Obviously this is a basic biography for very early readers, and it did include references to some important facets of Dickens' story, especially the bleak economic reality of Victorian England (debtor's prisons, child labor) and the serialization of his novels, but the focus on A Christmas Carol seems to have taken over in place of further exploration of the author's life and career. It's obviously his most famous work, but it felt a bit abrupt to end his story there.
This is a good starting place, though, and the accompanying illustrations are lively and detailed. Hopefully reading this will inspire interesting further discussions!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
This is a good starting place, though, and the accompanying illustrations are lively and detailed. Hopefully reading this will inspire interesting further discussions!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
October 15, 2021
Good introduction, as always, to someone famous, in this case, Charles Dickens.
Very simple explanation of where some of his story ideas came from, such as Oliver Twist, because he had to work as a child while his father was in debtors prison.
The Christmas Carol is emphasized over his other stories, here, for some reason, while only skirting by his other stories.
But as always, if it sparks interest in the young, they will go on to explore and find out more.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest reivew.
Very simple explanation of where some of his story ideas came from, such as Oliver Twist, because he had to work as a child while his father was in debtors prison.
The Christmas Carol is emphasized over his other stories, here, for some reason, while only skirting by his other stories.
But as always, if it sparks interest in the young, they will go on to explore and find out more.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest reivew.
June 26, 2025
Another book I read while waiting in half price books! I don’t know nearly as much about Charles Dickens and I was presently surprised by this book compared to Tolkiens. I thought this did a good job of going over the highlight or Charles life and focusing on his book writing wonder. Again I also liked the mini biographical timeline in the back. Only thing I would say is that it missed talking about some of his greatest books he wrote which was a bummer.
December 8, 2021
I enjoyed this book, but the series is feeling formulaic. What makes it worse is at the end of the story there is a mini biography and time line with real picture. I like this part, but I wish it was used to expand on the information in the story, instead of just retell it.
April 8, 2024
A great series, and this bridged the gap nicely until I can introduce my small mate to the works of one of my fave authors (a bit more age appropriately). A Christmas Carol is a strong feature in this story, rightfully so. Seems like a good gateway into the Muppets Christmas Carol.
October 23, 2021
This is another brilliant addition to this series – even as an adult I look out for the next book in the series being released and I have to say I was delighted when I saw who this new release featured - one of my favourite authors!
I love the images in this series and this is a delightful introduction to Charles Dickens the very talented, much loved and influential Victorian author who used his childhood experiences to write some of the most highly regarding classic novels of all time such as Oliver Twist and A Christmas Carol
This series is an excellent introduction to some of the well-known, and less well-known people that have had a great impact in our lives through a variety of areas and I loved that this one showed the realities of what could happen in the Victorian period with Charles being made to work in a factory at a very young age to support his family after his father was sent to a debtors prison.
I love the variety of people chosen and the mix of backgrounds that they have too and that there is an equal mix of genders and ethnic backgrounds too – literally everyone can be embraced by this series
It is 5 stars from me for this one – a delightful read and one I will be very highly recommending!
I love the images in this series and this is a delightful introduction to Charles Dickens the very talented, much loved and influential Victorian author who used his childhood experiences to write some of the most highly regarding classic novels of all time such as Oliver Twist and A Christmas Carol
This series is an excellent introduction to some of the well-known, and less well-known people that have had a great impact in our lives through a variety of areas and I loved that this one showed the realities of what could happen in the Victorian period with Charles being made to work in a factory at a very young age to support his family after his father was sent to a debtors prison.
I love the variety of people chosen and the mix of backgrounds that they have too and that there is an equal mix of genders and ethnic backgrounds too – literally everyone can be embraced by this series
It is 5 stars from me for this one – a delightful read and one I will be very highly recommending!
February 15, 2025
Charles Dickens is a famous and well known author, but young people today probably don't know much about him. This is a wonderful addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series about how a young man overcame many hardships to follow his dream of wanting to tell stories about the people he saw and met everyday. I did not know a lot about Charles Dickens' life and will definitely be reading more about him. In the book, we learn about his family's struggles, his young life working in a factory, his early career in a law office and his work at a couple of newspapers. I can see where he got his inspiration for Oliver Twist. The book concentrates on his famous novella, A Christmas Story, which is one that children will be familiar with. The illustrations by Isobel Ross were a perfect fit for this story. They gave the Victorian feel to the book and added to the story. The timeline with photographs and suggestions for further reading, are always a great addition to encourage readers who want further information. The message to children to follow their dreams and keep trying to succeed, is present and shared in a very good way. A great addition to the series that I recommend public and school libraries stock.
October 24, 2021
I thought this exploration of Charles Dickens is accessible and inspirational for young readers. I enjoyed the illustrations and the main points captured to summarise Charles’s lifetime.
July 5, 2022
Charles Dickens is another new children's book in the Little People, Big Dream series written by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara. This story about the famous author is a great introduction to young readers. Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.
November 10, 2021
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Charles Dickens is a short illustrated biography of the famed author for young readers in the Little People, Big Dreams series. I've reviewed a number of these titles and all of them are delightful and exuberant little books which cover the lives of famous cultural, science, arts, and icons of innovation while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail.
Released 9th Nov 2021 by Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's 32 pages and will be available in hardcover, and ebook formats.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's well written in clear accessible language. There is so much information included in this little book. The art by Isobel Ross is appealing and colorful and I found myself drawn into the pictures.
Well written and appealing, I am really enjoying all of these little books. This one is a worthy addition.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Dickens lived a difficult life in many ways and the author does a wonderful job of relating information in an age appropriate way without being hurtful or maudlin. This would make a great starting point for deeper research for young readers and a good introduction to his work. I felt that there was an overemphasis on A Christmas Carol, but this book could serve as a springboard and introduction to his *other* works as well.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
Charles Dickens is a short illustrated biography of the famed author for young readers in the Little People, Big Dreams series. I've reviewed a number of these titles and all of them are delightful and exuberant little books which cover the lives of famous cultural, science, arts, and icons of innovation while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail.
Released 9th Nov 2021 by Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's 32 pages and will be available in hardcover, and ebook formats.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's well written in clear accessible language. There is so much information included in this little book. The art by Isobel Ross is appealing and colorful and I found myself drawn into the pictures.
Well written and appealing, I am really enjoying all of these little books. This one is a worthy addition.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Dickens lived a difficult life in many ways and the author does a wonderful job of relating information in an age appropriate way without being hurtful or maudlin. This would make a great starting point for deeper research for young readers and a good introduction to his work. I felt that there was an overemphasis on A Christmas Carol, but this book could serve as a springboard and introduction to his *other* works as well.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
October 12, 2021
Charles John Huffam Dickens can teach us a lot about picking ourselves up, dusting off and trying AGAIN. The lessons he learned in the mid-1800s are still ones we can appreciate today.
Given a chance to go to school – an opportunity not many children had been given. His love of reading was fostered during these years. His life took a twist when his father was sent to prison for not paying debts and Oliver had to work in a factory 7 days a week, 10 hours a day. Time and again, through no fault of his own, he missed opportunities to better himself, but rather than complain he used the chance to take a different path than the one originally planned. When he finally became successful, he encouraged readers to open their hearts to those who struggle.
Children need to read books like this. The path to success isn’t often a straight one! Life isn’t always as we plan it and children need to see others who’ve succeeded after re-evaluating and trying again and again. They need to see that sometimes our experiences when things don’t go as planned are the very things that contribute to our eventual success.
I heartily recommend this great book which will instill necessary life skills for future heroes – little people with big dreams.
Isabel Ross’s illustrations are fantastic. Children will love the detail and become engrossed in the photos as they listen to the story.
Publishes November 9, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Quarto Publishing Group, Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Given a chance to go to school – an opportunity not many children had been given. His love of reading was fostered during these years. His life took a twist when his father was sent to prison for not paying debts and Oliver had to work in a factory 7 days a week, 10 hours a day. Time and again, through no fault of his own, he missed opportunities to better himself, but rather than complain he used the chance to take a different path than the one originally planned. When he finally became successful, he encouraged readers to open their hearts to those who struggle.
Children need to read books like this. The path to success isn’t often a straight one! Life isn’t always as we plan it and children need to see others who’ve succeeded after re-evaluating and trying again and again. They need to see that sometimes our experiences when things don’t go as planned are the very things that contribute to our eventual success.
I heartily recommend this great book which will instill necessary life skills for future heroes – little people with big dreams.
Isabel Ross’s illustrations are fantastic. Children will love the detail and become engrossed in the photos as they listen to the story.
Publishes November 9, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Quarto Publishing Group, Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 25, 2022
Author: Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Illustrator: Isobel Ross
Age Recommendation: Early Primary
Topic/ Theme: Writing, Biographic.
Setting: England
Series: Little People, Big Dreams
The cover of Charles Dickens is so cute, the included ghost is a lovely touch. I'm quite fond of the focus chosen for this, I expected it to be Oliver Twist but Sánchez Vegara went with A Christmas Carol. This focus is reflected in the endpages, white snow flakes on a red background. There feels to be quite a dull colour palette for this one. It feels like it suits the stereotypes of Dickens and his world. There is some wonderful imagery included for the ghosts and performaces of A Christmas Carol. Sánchez Vegara does a great job with the limits and the wording in general as usual. I do really like that idea to focus on A Christmas Carol.
December 11, 2021
Thank you so much to Quarto/ Frances Lincoln and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
I love this series of books, always so many interesting people given stories. This one was about author Charles Dickens and it didn’t disappoint sharing his story of his hardships in his life, how he had to do horrid jobs before he could go for his dreams and how he became a success so quickly with his wonderful stories.
I always love the illustrations in these books they are so adorable and add to what you’re reading letting you see their lives as well as read about them.
Again these books are perfect for younger children, they are so fun, so educational, offer a lot of inspirational value and ultimately they are just a great series of books.
I love this series of books, always so many interesting people given stories. This one was about author Charles Dickens and it didn’t disappoint sharing his story of his hardships in his life, how he had to do horrid jobs before he could go for his dreams and how he became a success so quickly with his wonderful stories.
I always love the illustrations in these books they are so adorable and add to what you’re reading letting you see their lives as well as read about them.
Again these books are perfect for younger children, they are so fun, so educational, offer a lot of inspirational value and ultimately they are just a great series of books.
October 20, 2021
I received an electronic ARC from Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books through NetGalley.
Sanchez Vegara captures the depth of Dickens' life and abilities and condenses it to a version elementary level readers can understand and appreciate. She wisely focuses on a few of his novels and spends the most time on the one younger readers will recognize - A Christmas Carol. The illustrations show what life was like for the Dickens family and others in England. Details in the artwork bring readers into the text so they can see what Dickens saw.
Another well written entry in the Little People; Big Dreams series. I watch for these to purchase for our school library.
Sanchez Vegara captures the depth of Dickens' life and abilities and condenses it to a version elementary level readers can understand and appreciate. She wisely focuses on a few of his novels and spends the most time on the one younger readers will recognize - A Christmas Carol. The illustrations show what life was like for the Dickens family and others in England. Details in the artwork bring readers into the text so they can see what Dickens saw.
Another well written entry in the Little People; Big Dreams series. I watch for these to purchase for our school library.
November 14, 2022
Charles Dickens by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara explores the life of the titular British author. In events worthy of his own stories, young Charles became a child factory worker. As an adult, he tried working as an actor, and at a law firm. Weaving stories was his true passion though and he thrived as a journalist and storyteller. And today, middle and high school kids are forced to read his books every year. (Can you guess whose books never thrilled me much?)
At the end is a section with more detailed information on his life, suitable for older readers. Inspirational and educational both, this entire series is great, and full of delightful art to engage younger audiences! Recommended!
At the end is a section with more detailed information on his life, suitable for older readers. Inspirational and educational both, this entire series is great, and full of delightful art to engage younger audiences! Recommended!
October 10, 2021
Probably a success in the grand scheme of this humongous series of books, we get the basics of Dickens' life (including details I'd never read before, not having that much of an interest in him). It does get bogged down with "A Christmas Carol" for far too many pages at the end, and while that is clearly because that story is a lot more readable and accessible than practically any of his full-length novels, it's a bit of a skewiff approach to telling his full story. Three and a half stars, then.
October 17, 2021
This time the little person with a big dream Charles Dickens. This entry in the well-done series introduces children to the prolific Victorian author. They learn about his father being sent to debtor’s prison and the many jobs that Charles had before becoming an author. Kids find out that readers eagerly awaited each entry in his serials. They discover that Dickens wrote one of the best known Christmas stories. All in all, a very nice look at the author and the power of words.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
December 9, 2021
A picture book biography of Victorian author Charles Dickens.
This is a nice, succinct look at the author’s life from childhood to adulthood focusing on aspects of his childhood that impacted the stories he eventually told, and the two main books that first made him a household name, The Pickwick Papers and A Christmas Carol. The artwork style fits the topic well, and I like the amount of details. It feels very approachable for littles.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a nice, succinct look at the author’s life from childhood to adulthood focusing on aspects of his childhood that impacted the stories he eventually told, and the two main books that first made him a household name, The Pickwick Papers and A Christmas Carol. The artwork style fits the topic well, and I like the amount of details. It feels very approachable for littles.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2021
When you think that these people got some luxury to be able to shine, this book proofed that you're wrong. If Charles Dickens' family afforded to sent him to school, it didn't last long. But how can he be so famous? You might've heard his books or the famous character of his books such as Mr. Scrooge and Oliver Twist.
This series always taught me to never give up, try some more just like Charles Dickens, for example. Hardship makes you stronger and more resourceful, if you don't stop trying.
This series always taught me to never give up, try some more just like Charles Dickens, for example. Hardship makes you stronger and more resourceful, if you don't stop trying.
June 25, 2022
Charles Dickens by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and I just Love this little books by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, These must be one of the best little books to purchase for children, these are the best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
A must book for your children's book shelves.
Big Thank you to netgalley and the Quarto Publishing Group for a free copy for an honest opinion
A must book for your children's book shelves.
Big Thank you to netgalley and the Quarto Publishing Group for a free copy for an honest opinion
November 16, 2022
'Charles Dickens' by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara with illustrations by Isobel Ross is a kid-sized biography of the famous writer.
Charles Dickens grew up in England and liked to make up stories. When his father was sent to debtor's prison, Charles learned about factory work. His experiences and observations made him one of the world's greatest authors.
The story is enhanced by the great illustrations by Isobel Ross with some hidden Easter eggs in the illustrations for those who know the work of Dickens.
Charles Dickens grew up in England and liked to make up stories. When his father was sent to debtor's prison, Charles learned about factory work. His experiences and observations made him one of the world's greatest authors.
The story is enhanced by the great illustrations by Isobel Ross with some hidden Easter eggs in the illustrations for those who know the work of Dickens.
November 8, 2021
We love these books in our house. They are a great way to introduce your little ones to important and/or famous people without being too big or in depth (I.e. anything scandalous)
Christmas is a big deal in our house. We have tons of traditions including watching multiple versions of A Christmas Carol. So when I saw this book I knew we had to add this to our collection. I loved finding out more about the author of such a beloved story. Terrific illustrations as always.
Christmas is a big deal in our house. We have tons of traditions including watching multiple versions of A Christmas Carol. So when I saw this book I knew we had to add this to our collection. I loved finding out more about the author of such a beloved story. Terrific illustrations as always.
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