What do you think?
Rate this book
Little People, BIG DREAMS
Shakira
From the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Shakira, the world’s most popular Latin American singer.
As a child, little Shakira knew she was born to be performer. Even as a little girl, she was full of natural rhythm and she was obsessed with singing, writing songs and dancing whenever she got the opportunity.
At 14 years old she recorded her first album, and although it wasn't a success, she knew she had found her calling. She persevered, and within four years she had finally got her first hit! She soon became a Latin American icon , winning many awards and creating global hits across the world, becoming widely known as the Queen of Latin Music.
With her fame, Shakira started a foundation to help children in her native country, Colombia and other developing countries across the world, providing them with education and the chance of a better future.
This inspiring 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 iconic singer's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling biography series for kids that explores 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 of books offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover and paperback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. With rewritten text for older children, the treasuries each bring together a multitude of dreamers in a single volume. You can also collect a selection of the books by theme in boxed gift sets . Activity books and a journal 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!
As a child, little Shakira knew she was born to be performer. Even as a little girl, she was full of natural rhythm and she was obsessed with singing, writing songs and dancing whenever she got the opportunity.
At 14 years old she recorded her first album, and although it wasn't a success, she knew she had found her calling. She persevered, and within four years she had finally got her first hit! She soon became a Latin American icon , winning many awards and creating global hits across the world, becoming widely known as the Queen of Latin Music.
With her fame, Shakira started a foundation to help children in her native country, Colombia and other developing countries across the world, providing them with education and the chance of a better future.
This inspiring 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 iconic singer's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling biography series for kids that explores 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 of books offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover and paperback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. With rewritten text for older children, the treasuries each bring together a multitude of dreamers in a single volume. You can also collect a selection of the books by theme in boxed gift sets . Activity books and a journal 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
Published February 7, 2023
About the author
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
201 books161 followersYou may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 8, 2023
4★
“Shakira mixed English with Spanish, rock with pop, Indian clarinets with Arabic tambourines, old African riffs with fresh new beats… With each song, she invited everyone to enjoy the many sounds and rhythms of the globe.”
Shakira means “grateful” in Arabic, the background of her parents, who were living in Barranquilla, Colombia, when she was born. Her father always wore dark glasses in memory of Shakira’s brother, who had been killed in a motorbike accident.
Her father took her to a Middle Eastern restaurant when she was four, and she took off!
“… a musician played the doumbek, a traditional drum that accompanies belly dancing. As soon as she heard its sound, Shakira felt a warmth in her tummy!”
From that time on, she performed – at school, at home, in singing and dance classes, and eventually in talent shows. Her father wanted her to learn to be more than a star.
“… her father took her to a park where orphans lived, Shakira made herself a promise: one day, she would help kids like them.”
At only thirteen, she recorded an album. It didn’t do very well, but after another couple, she hit the top of the Latin music charts.
“From Colombia and Argentina, to Chile and Brazil, everyone in South America danced to her sound.”
Remember the kids she met? She founded a charity to help Latin American children.
“But no matter how far her music took her, she never forgot her promise.”
This book doesn’t mention that it is called “Pies Descalzos” (“Barefoot”) after her successful album of the same name. I decided to look it up, and one of the first images I saw was the real photo that probably inspired the artist.
“Education is the footprint we leave today to build the children and youth's future world. We strongly believe in educating for the present and change.”
https://fundacionpiesdescalzos.com/en/
She travelled and performed everywhere with all kinds of musicians.
“Shakira mixed English with Spanish, rock with pop, Indian clarinets with Arabic tambourines, old African riffs with fresh new beats.”
She sang the anthem at the World Cup in South Africa, and she performed at America’s Super Bowl, “making ancient Arabic trills of joy”.
I think it’s fair to say she’s encourage a lot of people to move and shake with her. I am inspired by her charity work.
I wish I’d liked the illustrations more, and I’m sorry Shakira’s charity wasn’t identified by name, even in the real bio at the end. But I’m sure her fans will love the book. Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review.
“Shakira mixed English with Spanish, rock with pop, Indian clarinets with Arabic tambourines, old African riffs with fresh new beats… With each song, she invited everyone to enjoy the many sounds and rhythms of the globe.”
Shakira means “grateful” in Arabic, the background of her parents, who were living in Barranquilla, Colombia, when she was born. Her father always wore dark glasses in memory of Shakira’s brother, who had been killed in a motorbike accident.
Her father took her to a Middle Eastern restaurant when she was four, and she took off!
“… a musician played the doumbek, a traditional drum that accompanies belly dancing. As soon as she heard its sound, Shakira felt a warmth in her tummy!”
From that time on, she performed – at school, at home, in singing and dance classes, and eventually in talent shows. Her father wanted her to learn to be more than a star.
“… her father took her to a park where orphans lived, Shakira made herself a promise: one day, she would help kids like them.”
At only thirteen, she recorded an album. It didn’t do very well, but after another couple, she hit the top of the Latin music charts.
“From Colombia and Argentina, to Chile and Brazil, everyone in South America danced to her sound.”
Remember the kids she met? She founded a charity to help Latin American children.
“But no matter how far her music took her, she never forgot her promise.”
This book doesn’t mention that it is called “Pies Descalzos” (“Barefoot”) after her successful album of the same name. I decided to look it up, and one of the first images I saw was the real photo that probably inspired the artist.
“Education is the footprint we leave today to build the children and youth's future world. We strongly believe in educating for the present and change.”
https://fundacionpiesdescalzos.com/en/
She travelled and performed everywhere with all kinds of musicians.
“Shakira mixed English with Spanish, rock with pop, Indian clarinets with Arabic tambourines, old African riffs with fresh new beats.”
She sang the anthem at the World Cup in South Africa, and she performed at America’s Super Bowl, “making ancient Arabic trills of joy”.
I think it’s fair to say she’s encourage a lot of people to move and shake with her. I am inspired by her charity work.
I wish I’d liked the illustrations more, and I’m sorry Shakira’s charity wasn’t identified by name, even in the real bio at the end. But I’m sure her fans will love the book. Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review.
March 9, 2023
Shakira from the age of 4 was a Sensation! She was from Colombia, but her father was Lebanese and her mother Colombian. She loves to perform and the influence of her parents and her community really make her unique. As a child she sings, dances, writes her own songs, and plays musical instruments. She enjoys mixing Rock-n-Roll, Middle Eastern, and Latin Influences which include belly dancing, playing the harmonica and she sings in Spanish.
I didn’t know much about Shakira before reading this book. I really was impressed by her. At just 14, her first album is released and includes the song she wrote at 8 years old, Tus Gafas Oscuras which means Your Dark Sunglasses in English. This is because her brother died in an accident and after her father wears dark sunglasses to hide his grief. I found this so compelling, I looked the lyrics up and read the English translation. This is profoundly moving and incredible a child wrote it.
Shakira has perseverance. She keeps working at her music and her third album, Pies Descalzo sells millions of copies. She decides she wants to sing all over the world. She moves to the US and starts writing lyrics in English. She is enormously successful. I can see why she is known as The Queen of Latin Music.
Shakira decides she wants to give back by helping children from struggling communities by helping reduce poverty and building schools. She wants each child to be educated and have a chance to achieve their dreams, too! She has started a foundation and is really dedicated to it.
This is such a great message for children to hear. Shakira also knows that life is not always easy and it is important to work on making your dreams come true. She is from South America and was making music at a time when having success as a Latina Woman was not usually done. Yet, she made it anyway. This is an especially important message for young Hispanic Dreamers as it is an opportunity to believe in yourself. I love this Series: Little People, Big Dreams as it offers great stories about all different types of people. Children need to know that their aspirations can really happen and reading about role models is a wonderful way to do this.
The one thing that bothered me was I didn’t find the illustrations as exciting as usual. They add so much to the book and especially this one about Shakira who is full of life and passion.
Thank you NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Frances Lincoln Books for a chance to read this book. I am always happy to leave a review.
I didn’t know much about Shakira before reading this book. I really was impressed by her. At just 14, her first album is released and includes the song she wrote at 8 years old, Tus Gafas Oscuras which means Your Dark Sunglasses in English. This is because her brother died in an accident and after her father wears dark sunglasses to hide his grief. I found this so compelling, I looked the lyrics up and read the English translation. This is profoundly moving and incredible a child wrote it.
Shakira has perseverance. She keeps working at her music and her third album, Pies Descalzo sells millions of copies. She decides she wants to sing all over the world. She moves to the US and starts writing lyrics in English. She is enormously successful. I can see why she is known as The Queen of Latin Music.
Shakira decides she wants to give back by helping children from struggling communities by helping reduce poverty and building schools. She wants each child to be educated and have a chance to achieve their dreams, too! She has started a foundation and is really dedicated to it.
This is such a great message for children to hear. Shakira also knows that life is not always easy and it is important to work on making your dreams come true. She is from South America and was making music at a time when having success as a Latina Woman was not usually done. Yet, she made it anyway. This is an especially important message for young Hispanic Dreamers as it is an opportunity to believe in yourself. I love this Series: Little People, Big Dreams as it offers great stories about all different types of people. Children need to know that their aspirations can really happen and reading about role models is a wonderful way to do this.
The one thing that bothered me was I didn’t find the illustrations as exciting as usual. They add so much to the book and especially this one about Shakira who is full of life and passion.
Thank you NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Frances Lincoln Books for a chance to read this book. I am always happy to leave a review.
January 10, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Shakira is another great addition to the Little People Big Dreams series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and I just loved the artwork throughout. This is a great book for children to learn about a singer with a unique singing voice and style. It gives wonderful information such as the origin of her name, how she started out and became a star and also about how she has a charity she runs for Latinx children. Shakira is the Queen of Latin music and is a great role model for children to be introduced to along with the style of Latin music she has produced. The only thing I could suggest to have made it that bit more unique is if it maybe had a playlist at the back for children to listen to.
Shakira is another great addition to the Little People Big Dreams series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and I just loved the artwork throughout. This is a great book for children to learn about a singer with a unique singing voice and style. It gives wonderful information such as the origin of her name, how she started out and became a star and also about how she has a charity she runs for Latinx children. Shakira is the Queen of Latin music and is a great role model for children to be introduced to along with the style of Latin music she has produced. The only thing I could suggest to have made it that bit more unique is if it maybe had a playlist at the back for children to listen to.
May 14, 2023
Shakira was from Colombia, but her father was Lebanese so she had Arabic heritage as well as Latino. From the age of 4 she was performing. She loved to belly dance as well as write poetry that she set to music. Her parents put her in modelling, singing lessons as well as dance to help her become an all round performer. Once she made it big in Spanish speaking countries, she traveled the world and began writing songs in English as well. She is a well rounded performer who does it all, including writing her own songs. She enjoys mixing Rock-n-Roll, Middle Eastern, and Latin Influences which include belly dancing, playing the harmonica and singing in Spanish. When she was young her parents wanted to make sure she was also a good human being and took her to see orphans who didn't have a lot, including education. As she became famous, Shakira began a charity to support poor children in her own country and other Latin American Countries. As with other books in this series, there is a timeline with actual photographs in the back for more details and a list of books for further research. I enjoyed learning a bit more about Shakira and seeing how this little girl dreamt big and became a star. Laura Diez illustrated this one and although I enjoy the quirky illustrations, Shakira really didn't look much like the one that I have seen perform. Otherwise, the images were cute and gave the book the funky feel I am used to.
January 26, 2023
These Book Don't Disappoint when it Comes to Amming it's Subject Matter at a Younger Audience, Especially when it comes to The Queen of Latin-American Music!
(Thanks to Net Galley for this Book).
(Thanks to Net Galley for this Book).
December 21, 2022
I love the Little People, Big Dreams series. The art this time around is bright and spirited, much like Shakira herself. The story covers both her music and social justice aspirations, making it a good choice for kids familiar with this singer.
January 16, 2023
Shakira is the latest addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara. I have read so many of these children's books now and really enjoyed this one as I was a big fan of Shakira when I was younger. I think I drove my parents mad playing her Laundry Service album when I lived at home! I did not know about her work with disadvantaged youth and enjoyed learning about her early life in Colombia. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.
December 15, 2022
Thank you, Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, for the advance reading copy.
As I am quite familiar with this series of short introduction to famous personalities all over the world, I do know what to expect.
Expect a brief background of the person on the cover. Expect good and cute colourful illustrations. Expect the story in brief what they are/were known for. At times, expect a little more detail towards the end with real pictures. Got them all here!
As I am quite familiar with this series of short introduction to famous personalities all over the world, I do know what to expect.
Expect a brief background of the person on the cover. Expect good and cute colourful illustrations. Expect the story in brief what they are/were known for. At times, expect a little more detail towards the end with real pictures. Got them all here!
December 21, 2022
I received an ARC through Netgalley and this was such a cute read! I was familiar with the series before, so I knew roughly what to expect. It is such a nice and cute way to start learning about famous people. And even if I obviously knew some things about Shakira, I also learned new things. The story is accompanied by lovely, colourful illustrations.
The only thing I can think of, is that I would have loved to have some song titles in there to connect with the readers.
The only thing I can think of, is that I would have loved to have some song titles in there to connect with the readers.
February 28, 2023
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
When I saw this book pop up on Netgalley I knew I had to request it! One for Shakira whose music I danced a lot to when I was a teen + a new book in the Little People Big Dreams. I just adore that series and I love seeing all the new books come out~
In this book we learn all about Shakira! From tiny girl to legend that she is now. Yes, I would call her that. Who doesn’t know Shakira? Plus, given all she did for everyone I would say she deserves being called a legend. I didn’t know much about her, I just love her music, so this was a very fun book to read. I learned about how she was always into music and dancing, I had a laugh at seeing her perform in her class (mostly because apparently she did that dance EVERY week), I loved seeing her grow and find out about music, I loved seeing her find a goal in life and try to reach it, I loved reading about her making a fund/foundation for poorer kids, and there is much much more! I learned a lot about this amazing singer + dancer. Thank you Little People Big Dreams!
The art by Laura Díez was really fun and I love her style. It was so vibrant and Shakira just seemed to belly-dance right off the pages!
All in all, this was a wonderful book and I would recommend it! To fans of Shakira or those curious about famous people. It was tons of fun and I learned a lot.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
When I saw this book pop up on Netgalley I knew I had to request it! One for Shakira whose music I danced a lot to when I was a teen + a new book in the Little People Big Dreams. I just adore that series and I love seeing all the new books come out~
In this book we learn all about Shakira! From tiny girl to legend that she is now. Yes, I would call her that. Who doesn’t know Shakira? Plus, given all she did for everyone I would say she deserves being called a legend. I didn’t know much about her, I just love her music, so this was a very fun book to read. I learned about how she was always into music and dancing, I had a laugh at seeing her perform in her class (mostly because apparently she did that dance EVERY week), I loved seeing her grow and find out about music, I loved seeing her find a goal in life and try to reach it, I loved reading about her making a fund/foundation for poorer kids, and there is much much more! I learned a lot about this amazing singer + dancer. Thank you Little People Big Dreams!
The art by Laura Díez was really fun and I love her style. It was so vibrant and Shakira just seemed to belly-dance right off the pages!
All in all, this was a wonderful book and I would recommend it! To fans of Shakira or those curious about famous people. It was tons of fun and I learned a lot.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
January 17, 2023
I received a free copy from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Not my usual genre, but after this weeks news… solidarity sister! I honestly love the little people big dreams series, and I’m sad this one fell a little short. It came across more like an advertisement of Shakira’s charity work than informative, like maya Angelou’s was in the series. I wish we had learned more about Shakira’s music career and the hurdles she had to face.. I recommend anyway as the illustrations are beautiful and it’s a fun, lighthearted read for every age.
Not my usual genre, but after this weeks news… solidarity sister! I honestly love the little people big dreams series, and I’m sad this one fell a little short. It came across more like an advertisement of Shakira’s charity work than informative, like maya Angelou’s was in the series. I wish we had learned more about Shakira’s music career and the hurdles she had to face.. I recommend anyway as the illustrations are beautiful and it’s a fun, lighthearted read for every age.
April 23, 2025
Her hips don't lie!
January 31, 2023
I received this advanced copy from netgalley. I loved this quick little reminder of who shakira was as a child. I see and hear of what she has built now but don't think I knew about her dad and her brother before, that she wrote a song about her dad wearing those sunglasses because he was Cobain by grief at the loss of his son. I also love that she helps all types of people not just her country. Awesome story about shakira.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2022
I received a free copy of, Shakira, by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoy this series of books. Shakira was born to entertain, she was born in Colombia, and as a child she learned to belly dance, write, songs, and sing. This is a great book for boys and girls.
December 29, 2022
I love these little people, big dreams books for children. I buy them all the time for my nieces and nephews. As always, the art is simple but cute and bright. I really loved the diversity of the children in this book, I think that's a really big positive. I did not expect a kids book to teach me something, but I had no idea that Shakira has a charity to help Latinx children. What a wonderful addition to the little people, big dreams series.
January 16, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers, so here it is.
I think the ‘Little People, Big Dreams’ collection is adorable and perfect for young readers who are starting to read on their own (good as a bedtime story too, though). It’s a short read but packed with vibrant illustrations and colours so really engaging and easy to read.
I now want to complete the series! Totally recommend.
I think the ‘Little People, Big Dreams’ collection is adorable and perfect for young readers who are starting to read on their own (good as a bedtime story too, though). It’s a short read but packed with vibrant illustrations and colours so really engaging and easy to read.
I now want to complete the series! Totally recommend.
May 4, 2023
This is a lovely children's book from the Little People, Big Dreams series, which is an amazing, educational series of books, focusing on inspirational people in the world.
This book focuses on Shakira, who is a singer, musician and dancer born in Columbia. We are shown her life from when she was a child until she is an adult. She released her first music album when she was just 13 years old and eventually went on to become famous. She also created a foundation which brings education and inspiration to children all over the Americas.
I found this all very interesting, and I enjoyed looking at the beautiful images in the book, as well as the informative text sections and photos at the end of the book.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
This book focuses on Shakira, who is a singer, musician and dancer born in Columbia. We are shown her life from when she was a child until she is an adult. She released her first music album when she was just 13 years old and eventually went on to become famous. She also created a foundation which brings education and inspiration to children all over the Americas.
I found this all very interesting, and I enjoyed looking at the beautiful images in the book, as well as the informative text sections and photos at the end of the book.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
February 9, 2023
My thanks to Quarto Group - Francis Lincoln Children’s Books for a temporary digital edition via NetGalley of ‘Shakira’ by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara with illustrations by Laura Diez.
This is No. 95 in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series of illustrated mini-biographies for readers aged 4-7 that is intended to introduce them to the lives of innovators in various fields, including musicians, actors, and artists.
I have enjoyed Shakira’s music ever since I first saw her ‘Whenever, Wherever’ music video and welcomed an opportunity to gain a sense of her early life. Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara emphasises the support Shakira had from her family and her love of world music and dance, which she has incorporated into her songs. I was also moved by her commitment to working with orphans.
The book ends with a biographical timeline accompanied by photographs and a suggestion for further reading at an older level.
Laura Diez’s art is very vibrant both in her use of colour and capturing a sense of the movement inherent in Shakira’s dancing. I especially loved the picture of a young Shakira doing a belly dance at school watched by two cheerful nuns and fellow students. Still, a couple of the students looked rather fed up as indicated by the text.
Shakira’s message is very upbeat and positive, an invitation to move our bodies to the many rhythms of the world. I am certain that this addition to the series will be popular with parents, guardians, educators, and librarians.
This is No. 95 in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series of illustrated mini-biographies for readers aged 4-7 that is intended to introduce them to the lives of innovators in various fields, including musicians, actors, and artists.
I have enjoyed Shakira’s music ever since I first saw her ‘Whenever, Wherever’ music video and welcomed an opportunity to gain a sense of her early life. Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara emphasises the support Shakira had from her family and her love of world music and dance, which she has incorporated into her songs. I was also moved by her commitment to working with orphans.
The book ends with a biographical timeline accompanied by photographs and a suggestion for further reading at an older level.
Laura Diez’s art is very vibrant both in her use of colour and capturing a sense of the movement inherent in Shakira’s dancing. I especially loved the picture of a young Shakira doing a belly dance at school watched by two cheerful nuns and fellow students. Still, a couple of the students looked rather fed up as indicated by the text.
Shakira’s message is very upbeat and positive, an invitation to move our bodies to the many rhythms of the world. I am certain that this addition to the series will be popular with parents, guardians, educators, and librarians.
December 15, 2022
This is a fantastic tribute to an inspiring Latina. I dare you to read it without shaking your hips or moving your lips!
Readers will learn about the origins of Shakira’s name, her introduction to the music and beats she’s now known for, as well as the pledge she’s followed through with upon reaching stardom. Her life may have begun under a shroud of grief, but little Shakira danced and sang her way out of it. In fact, she never stopped singing and is now known as the Queen of Latin Music.
Children will love the fantastic illustrations, some of the best I’ve seen in this series. With so much to feast their eyes upon, reading will have to follow at a slower pace!
This book is a perfect introduction to a discussion about what makes Shakira so popular. Discussions will include her desire to mix “English with Spanish, rock with pop, Indian clarinets with Arabic tambourines, old African riffs with fresh new beats” and in the process encourage everyone to enjoy sounds from around the world.
This book about a little Columbian girl who had a big dream is one you’ll want to purchase for all the little ones in your sphere of influence who can’t sit still because they, too, are full of rhythm.
I was gifted this copy by Quarto Publishing Group, Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Readers will learn about the origins of Shakira’s name, her introduction to the music and beats she’s now known for, as well as the pledge she’s followed through with upon reaching stardom. Her life may have begun under a shroud of grief, but little Shakira danced and sang her way out of it. In fact, she never stopped singing and is now known as the Queen of Latin Music.
Children will love the fantastic illustrations, some of the best I’ve seen in this series. With so much to feast their eyes upon, reading will have to follow at a slower pace!
This book is a perfect introduction to a discussion about what makes Shakira so popular. Discussions will include her desire to mix “English with Spanish, rock with pop, Indian clarinets with Arabic tambourines, old African riffs with fresh new beats” and in the process encourage everyone to enjoy sounds from around the world.
This book about a little Columbian girl who had a big dream is one you’ll want to purchase for all the little ones in your sphere of influence who can’t sit still because they, too, are full of rhythm.
I was gifted this copy by Quarto Publishing Group, Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 29, 2023
It is always amazing to be able to share Little People, Big Dreams books about women with the young people in my life, Shakira was a great addition. Like the other books, it had the perfect amount on text on each page, complimenting the illustrations and not overpowering them.
The illustrations were beautiful and were able to reflect the diverse cultural influences touched upon in the text. I will say that on first glancing the cover, it took me a moment to connect Shakira's name to the cover image of her, the best way I can describe it, is it seemed a little too blonde (which is a very vague critique I understand)
The only little issue I had way that the text felt it needed to state how she met the father of her children, these story's have to communicate so much in so little space, I felt like it was information that didn't necessarily need to be in the main story. Especially given the recent controversy that Shakira is another high profile woman who has been cheated on.
It was an entertaining and informative story, I actually learnt about Shakira's work with disadvantaged children. Like many of these story's based on musicians, we were able to follow up reading with some of Shakira's music, dancing and singing.
The illustrations were beautiful and were able to reflect the diverse cultural influences touched upon in the text. I will say that on first glancing the cover, it took me a moment to connect Shakira's name to the cover image of her, the best way I can describe it, is it seemed a little too blonde (which is a very vague critique I understand)
The only little issue I had way that the text felt it needed to state how she met the father of her children, these story's have to communicate so much in so little space, I felt like it was information that didn't necessarily need to be in the main story. Especially given the recent controversy that Shakira is another high profile woman who has been cheated on.
It was an entertaining and informative story, I actually learnt about Shakira's work with disadvantaged children. Like many of these story's based on musicians, we were able to follow up reading with some of Shakira's music, dancing and singing.
January 16, 2023
My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
Received for review: I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not obligated to write a good review, nor did I receive any compensation for writing this review.
Why did I decide to turn the pages? I have enjoyed previous books by Maria, and I was Interested in this one as well.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: Maria does a great job of distilling a lot of information quickly. For readers who prefer non-fiction, these are great short snapshots of individuals from a variety of backgrounds, professionally and demographically.
This one was not my favorite by Maria, but it was still well done. I can see kids, especially girls, who are interested in singing and music, particularly, gravitating toward this one.
I enjoy Maria's illustration style. It's not as flashy as some, and is a bit more muted, but I enjoy it.
So why 3 stars? While I did enjoy it, I have read better in the genre.
Pages: about 32.
Reading age: 4-7
Love,
Danica Page
Received for review: I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not obligated to write a good review, nor did I receive any compensation for writing this review.
Why did I decide to turn the pages? I have enjoyed previous books by Maria, and I was Interested in this one as well.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: Maria does a great job of distilling a lot of information quickly. For readers who prefer non-fiction, these are great short snapshots of individuals from a variety of backgrounds, professionally and demographically.
This one was not my favorite by Maria, but it was still well done. I can see kids, especially girls, who are interested in singing and music, particularly, gravitating toward this one.
I enjoy Maria's illustration style. It's not as flashy as some, and is a bit more muted, but I enjoy it.
So why 3 stars? While I did enjoy it, I have read better in the genre.
Pages: about 32.
Reading age: 4-7
Love,
Danica Page
January 20, 2023
Shakira
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara has told the best story of Shakira. Taking Shakira's life, including her diverse upbringing to the forefront. Shakira's book of the Little People, Big Dreams series is not only inclusive but funny. I love the addition of how her classmates reacted to her dance routine.
Also, I personally had no idea she had a foundation for children. Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara adds such touching moments of Shakira's young life but also moments that propelled her into stardom. How awesome will it be for that young child, with a "different" name chosen for them for its beautiful meaning feel knowing that Shakira's name also means something else? They will have more pride in their name and be more confident.
That's why these stories are so important to share and forever grateful to Sanchez Vegara for taking the time to write them.
Teaching children who read this book that you cannot give up with you truly love something. You may not find success, in the case of this story, right away. But if it's something you love and you keep at it, it might all work out. Another reason why I continue to love the Little People, Big Dreams series, the lessons are universal.
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara has told the best story of Shakira. Taking Shakira's life, including her diverse upbringing to the forefront. Shakira's book of the Little People, Big Dreams series is not only inclusive but funny. I love the addition of how her classmates reacted to her dance routine.
Also, I personally had no idea she had a foundation for children. Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara adds such touching moments of Shakira's young life but also moments that propelled her into stardom. How awesome will it be for that young child, with a "different" name chosen for them for its beautiful meaning feel knowing that Shakira's name also means something else? They will have more pride in their name and be more confident.
That's why these stories are so important to share and forever grateful to Sanchez Vegara for taking the time to write them.
Teaching children who read this book that you cannot give up with you truly love something. You may not find success, in the case of this story, right away. But if it's something you love and you keep at it, it might all work out. Another reason why I continue to love the Little People, Big Dreams series, the lessons are universal.
February 4, 2023
nice little picture book with very simplified and basic information about the person the book is about.
i didn’t love the art, nor did i find the word choices (kept repeating that Shakira shakes her hips over and over) particularly well done.
i like the idea and i think it’s great that this book series exist but i also think it could be done a bit better and for a wider age range to enjoy.
as it is, it’s very clearly done for small kids and maybe those that just start to read in their own and are still learning to identify words and enjoy finding the same words repressed over and over to make it easier for them.
i didn’t really understand why the last few pages included the same info just a little more detailed about the person the books about again but this time written for a quick read through for an adult or older kid. why was that necessary? a brief summary over a person would do the same if someone wants to see if it’s a book they might find interesting for their child. but i guess there must be a reason for it i don’t see it understand.
a good book overall.
i didn’t love the art, nor did i find the word choices (kept repeating that Shakira shakes her hips over and over) particularly well done.
i like the idea and i think it’s great that this book series exist but i also think it could be done a bit better and for a wider age range to enjoy.
as it is, it’s very clearly done for small kids and maybe those that just start to read in their own and are still learning to identify words and enjoy finding the same words repressed over and over to make it easier for them.
i didn’t really understand why the last few pages included the same info just a little more detailed about the person the books about again but this time written for a quick read through for an adult or older kid. why was that necessary? a brief summary over a person would do the same if someone wants to see if it’s a book they might find interesting for their child. but i guess there must be a reason for it i don’t see it understand.
a good book overall.
February 24, 2023
With thanks to the author, publishers Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books, and NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
This is another fantastic instalment in the Little People Big Dreams series, which is a firm favourite of mine at this stage.
The story’s message is once again a positive one for young readers , with Shakira overcoming early failures in her musical career to eventually make it bag as a world-renowned artist. She also used that fame to provide education and the chance of a brighter future to young Hispanic all over the Americas.
The mini-biography of Shakira (complete with a timeline) at the end of the book is a great resource for young readers to cement the facts learned in the book, and offers advice on how to learn more about Shakira.
Top marks as always, and I look forward to reading more of the series.
This is another fantastic instalment in the Little People Big Dreams series, which is a firm favourite of mine at this stage.
The story’s message is once again a positive one for young readers , with Shakira overcoming early failures in her musical career to eventually make it bag as a world-renowned artist. She also used that fame to provide education and the chance of a brighter future to young Hispanic all over the Americas.
The mini-biography of Shakira (complete with a timeline) at the end of the book is a great resource for young readers to cement the facts learned in the book, and offers advice on how to learn more about Shakira.
Top marks as always, and I look forward to reading more of the series.
January 15, 2023
Shakira by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vergara is a straightforward biography for kids. It is simple yet well done for its target audience. I like how the author and illustrator can work together to showcase the beauty of culture. Specifically, we learn about Shakira's Columbian-Lebanese background and how it influenced her music and life. We also get to see Shakira grow up over time which allows us to know more about her parents and their involvement in her life and musical journey. Additionally, the illustrations add a lot to the book and its ability to be simplistic but well done. These illustrations do well in reeling in the reader which is especially needed for kids. So, if you have kids let them enjoy an inspirational and beautifully illustrated biography about Shakira and the importance of drive, passion, grit, and familial love.
January 24, 2023
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 cute little book here is about Shakira, the Latin American icon. She’s considered the Queen of Latin music and is known and admired everywhere in the world. Shakira is an example not only of what a great singer is but also of a kind-hearted person because of the foundation she started to help children in Colombia, her native country.
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 cute little book here is about Shakira, the Latin American icon. She’s considered the Queen of Latin music and is known and admired everywhere in the world. Shakira is an example not only of what a great singer is but also of a kind-hearted person because of the foundation she started to help children in Colombia, her native country.
February 5, 2023
Description, takne from Netgalley
As a child, little Shakira knew she was born to be performer. Even as a little girl, she was full of natural rhythm and she was obsessed with singing, writing songs and dancing whenever she got the opportunity.
-----
Shakira is one of my favorite singers in AllTime - her fantastic voice and her dancing moves are incredible, and she is good looking too =)) It was time for her to get a Vegara book of her own =))
As I said before - what I really love about this series is, it is normally a qick read - but also interesting and very nice to look at. The illustrations are colorful and when you read them to kids you can ask a lot of questions where to find what ... Totally recommended a a gift - or collect them! They are absolutely nice to look and!
#Shakira #NetGalley - thanks!!!
As a child, little Shakira knew she was born to be performer. Even as a little girl, she was full of natural rhythm and she was obsessed with singing, writing songs and dancing whenever she got the opportunity.
-----
Shakira is one of my favorite singers in AllTime - her fantastic voice and her dancing moves are incredible, and she is good looking too =)) It was time for her to get a Vegara book of her own =))
As I said before - what I really love about this series is, it is normally a qick read - but also interesting and very nice to look at. The illustrations are colorful and when you read them to kids you can ask a lot of questions where to find what ... Totally recommended a a gift - or collect them! They are absolutely nice to look and!
#Shakira #NetGalley - thanks!!!
November 17, 2022
A reasonable book for this series, concerning the Colombian star so good Wyclef Jean named her twice. It's not just a story of hard work and determination from a young woman who got to take global fusion Hispano-pop to the world, no – for she does a lot of work for charidee, too. This does kind of fall down visually, for a lot of the visuals have her as some kind of generic chunky lass, and then lo and behold there she is looking all svelte while almost wearing a bikini top with some bemused pan-pipers all of a sudden. And then she's chunky again. Not sure the kind of message that will give to the young readers of this, but it's not too bad a biographical text for the very young readers it's aimed at. Three and a half stars.
December 30, 2022
by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
#Shakira #NetGalley
Here is a new entry in the popular series that features people from all walks of life and tells their stories from when they were young until they achieved their dreams as adults. As is generally true with this fine series, text and illustration join together as readers learn about this entertainer. Some interesting things that kids will discover include the meaning of Shakira’s name, why her father wore dark glasses, how many kinds of music she performed and what Shakira promised to do one day.
This book will be a welcome addition to the Little Folks, Big Dreams collection.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.
#Shakira #NetGalley
Here is a new entry in the popular series that features people from all walks of life and tells their stories from when they were young until they achieved their dreams as adults. As is generally true with this fine series, text and illustration join together as readers learn about this entertainer. Some interesting things that kids will discover include the meaning of Shakira’s name, why her father wore dark glasses, how many kinds of music she performed and what Shakira promised to do one day.
This book will be a welcome addition to the Little Folks, Big Dreams collection.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.
January 24, 2023
It all began with a dream of making music and performing while dancing. Born and raised in Colombia, she enjoyed music, belly dancing, writing songs, and singing on stage. She spread her music with the many sounds and rhythms of the globe and became famous. Did you know that Shakira means Grateful in Arabic? She has established a foundation to foster education and more for orphans all over the Americas!
The illustrations by Laura Diez are fun, simple, colorful, and delightful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Quarto Publishing Group/Frances Lincoln Children's Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
The illustrations by Laura Diez are fun, simple, colorful, and delightful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Quarto Publishing Group/Frances Lincoln Children's Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews