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King Charles
* As featured in The New York Times *
From the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of King Charles.
Little Charles always knew that, one day, he would have a big job to do . As the son of Queen Elizabeth II, he was a prince, and in the future, he was to inherit the throne of the United Kingdom .
As a young man, he developed a passion for one the environment. Charles recognized that plastics and pollutants were causing harm to Earth, and as the Prince of Wales, he spent all his efforts championing climate justice and sustainability .
As a member of the Royal Family, Charles used his power to build important organizations such as The Prince’s Trust, a charity that works to improve the lives of young people across the UK .
And in 2022, when he became King, he pledged that he would spend the rest of his life serving his people with loyalty, respect, and love .
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 royal’s life, from little prince to grown-up king.
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!
From the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of King Charles.
Little Charles always knew that, one day, he would have a big job to do . As the son of Queen Elizabeth II, he was a prince, and in the future, he was to inherit the throne of the United Kingdom .
As a young man, he developed a passion for one the environment. Charles recognized that plastics and pollutants were causing harm to Earth, and as the Prince of Wales, he spent all his efforts championing climate justice and sustainability .
As a member of the Royal Family, Charles used his power to build important organizations such as The Prince’s Trust, a charity that works to improve the lives of young people across the UK .
And in 2022, when he became King, he pledged that he would spend the rest of his life serving his people with loyalty, respect, and love .
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 royal’s life, from little prince to grown-up king.
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 April 11, 2023
12 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
177 books143 followersYou may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
June 8, 2023
I’m still not used to King Charles. He was Prince Charles for so long. And I know this series is for children, but Camilla was never his “friend”. Diana did not go through what she did for this slander.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
February 27, 2023
The story of King Charles starts with his birth and the tradition of the bells at Westminster Abbey ringing out at his birth, as is the tradition for a royal birth.
It briefly brings the points of what and who influenced him. His grandmother encouraged his love for art, music and nature. His father sent him to boarding school as he wanted him to be among other boys. I guess, in a way, having normal childhood, not being surrounded just by royals – that is not explored in this story.
He was the first royal to earn college degree. This was surprising to learn.
He enjoyed walks in the nature where he relished the freedom of being a young man. He didn’t have to worry about any title there or if people liked him or not.
It briefly mentions the marriage to Diana and Camilla.
The main take away from this story is his involvement with environment and him wanting to be a good king.
A lot has happened in his life, and with such brief biography, which tries to encompass his whole life so far, everything seems to be too brief. It’d be nice to learn more about Charles himself, what shaped him, what brought him the greatest joy in life, how that could inspire others.
This story seems to be the briefest of all I’ve read in the series. I’ve read a few books in the series, and I don’t know if after a few of those reads they start to feel too brief or if they’re getting shorter in contest or the context itself in this story - a lot of everything - makes it feel this way.
Nevertheless, it is a wonderful series for children, which I highly recommend. All stories are accompanied by delightful illustrations. (Ages: 3-7)
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It briefly brings the points of what and who influenced him. His grandmother encouraged his love for art, music and nature. His father sent him to boarding school as he wanted him to be among other boys. I guess, in a way, having normal childhood, not being surrounded just by royals – that is not explored in this story.
He was the first royal to earn college degree. This was surprising to learn.
He enjoyed walks in the nature where he relished the freedom of being a young man. He didn’t have to worry about any title there or if people liked him or not.
It briefly mentions the marriage to Diana and Camilla.
The main take away from this story is his involvement with environment and him wanting to be a good king.
A lot has happened in his life, and with such brief biography, which tries to encompass his whole life so far, everything seems to be too brief. It’d be nice to learn more about Charles himself, what shaped him, what brought him the greatest joy in life, how that could inspire others.
This story seems to be the briefest of all I’ve read in the series. I’ve read a few books in the series, and I don’t know if after a few of those reads they start to feel too brief or if they’re getting shorter in contest or the context itself in this story - a lot of everything - makes it feel this way.
Nevertheless, it is a wonderful series for children, which I highly recommend. All stories are accompanied by delightful illustrations. (Ages: 3-7)
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2023
STOP THE PRESS!: #1 in UK! https://www.theguardian.com/books/202...
5★
“To get away from the attention, Charles took long walks into the mountains. All alone, surrounded by meadows, trees, and sheep, he was no longer the English-born prince but just a young man falling in love with Wales. He promised himself to always do his best to protect those beautiful landscapes and the whole natural world.”
The man the world has known as the Prince of Wales since 1958, is being crowned Charles III, King of the United Kingdom on May 6, 2023. Here’s a simple story about the intervening years.
“While his parents were busy with their royal duties, the queen’s mother gave him all the hugs he needed. She also encouraged his love for art, music, and nature.”
I love that this illustrations shows the Queen Mother in her pearls and heels. I don’t know that she wore black ankle boots, but she was still walking steadily on court shoes long after other women have had to adopt flats. Back to Charles.
I recall reading an interview with him many decades ago about what he wanted to be when he was a little boy (or words to that effect). He said that like many boys, he’d thought about being a fireman or something, but then he realised he was kind of stuck. I’ll say he was!
He was sent to boarding school in Scotland when he was eight to make him more independent. Note the tentative wave to the scowling boys.
“… a boarding school where the future king could rub shoulders with other boys. Far from home, Charles felt quite alone.”
But when he decided to go to college and study history, he broke new ground, becoming the first royal to earn a degree. He spent time studying at a college in Wales, to learn about the Welsh and their language. Unfortunately, protestors marred his welcome. To escape them, he used to walk in the hills through the beautiful Welsh countryside.
“He promised himself to always do his best to protect those beautiful landscapes and the whole natural world.”
“Charles was twenty-one when he gave his first speech defending the environment, long before global warming became a well-known issue.”
I urge you to have a look at this very short interview with him in 2020 that harks back to that speech, 50 years earlier. It includes film footage from then and ends with a brief appeal for more work today.
“The Prince of Wales and the Environment, 50 years on”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmEHJ...
“After completing his duty serving in the Royal Navy, he used his final pay check to create a charity that helps young people to fulfil their dreams.”
There are a lot of different dreams in that picture, and he has founded and supported countless charities since then.
Meanwhile, back at the ‘office’, it was high time he married, and much of the world seemed to stand still for the Royal Wedding to Diana, the very young woman who would become the Princess to the World.
“The day he got married, millions of people worldwide watched the ceremony on television. Lady Diana, his bride, looked like a fairy-tale princess.”
The book then jumps to their divorce and her death, leaving Charles and their two sons to grieve.
“Sadly, Diana died one year after their divorce, leaving a deep hole in the hearts of their two sons, William and Harry, and of the whole world.”
This is followed immediately by Camilla.
“ When Charles married Camilla, his closest friend for thirty-five years, they bought a farm in Wales, far from any palace. There, he planted trees, talked to his plants, and ate organic food, inspiring others to live in harmony with nature, too.”
He has been working for years to bring business and governments together to protect the environment. When assuming duties on behalf of his ageing mother, Queen Elizabeth II, he travelled and continued representing the UK, becoming king at 73, after she died.
“From then on, he promised to serve his people with love and respect, just as he had done since he was a child. It had been a long journey for little Charles, and after a lifetime of preparing for the job, he hoped not to let anyone down.”
I’m not a monarchist, but I admire what King Charles III has accomplished, stuck as he was, and what I think of as his quiet, informed persistence. I think he may have inherited the best of two very different parents (not to mention the Queen Mother).
This is #97, another timely addition to the popular Little People, BIG DREAMS series,
Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review from which I’ve shared a few illustrations. (I like this artist better than some of the others. 😊)
Do check the three minute YouTube interview.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmEHJ...
For further reading, the author suggests It's Up to Us: A Children’s Terra Carta for Nature, People and Planet by Christopher Lloyd with a foreword by HRH King Charles III
5★
“To get away from the attention, Charles took long walks into the mountains. All alone, surrounded by meadows, trees, and sheep, he was no longer the English-born prince but just a young man falling in love with Wales. He promised himself to always do his best to protect those beautiful landscapes and the whole natural world.”
The man the world has known as the Prince of Wales since 1958, is being crowned Charles III, King of the United Kingdom on May 6, 2023. Here’s a simple story about the intervening years.
“While his parents were busy with their royal duties, the queen’s mother gave him all the hugs he needed. She also encouraged his love for art, music, and nature.”
I love that this illustrations shows the Queen Mother in her pearls and heels. I don’t know that she wore black ankle boots, but she was still walking steadily on court shoes long after other women have had to adopt flats. Back to Charles.
I recall reading an interview with him many decades ago about what he wanted to be when he was a little boy (or words to that effect). He said that like many boys, he’d thought about being a fireman or something, but then he realised he was kind of stuck. I’ll say he was!
He was sent to boarding school in Scotland when he was eight to make him more independent. Note the tentative wave to the scowling boys.
“… a boarding school where the future king could rub shoulders with other boys. Far from home, Charles felt quite alone.”
But when he decided to go to college and study history, he broke new ground, becoming the first royal to earn a degree. He spent time studying at a college in Wales, to learn about the Welsh and their language. Unfortunately, protestors marred his welcome. To escape them, he used to walk in the hills through the beautiful Welsh countryside.
“He promised himself to always do his best to protect those beautiful landscapes and the whole natural world.”
“Charles was twenty-one when he gave his first speech defending the environment, long before global warming became a well-known issue.”
I urge you to have a look at this very short interview with him in 2020 that harks back to that speech, 50 years earlier. It includes film footage from then and ends with a brief appeal for more work today.
“The Prince of Wales and the Environment, 50 years on”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmEHJ...
“After completing his duty serving in the Royal Navy, he used his final pay check to create a charity that helps young people to fulfil their dreams.”
There are a lot of different dreams in that picture, and he has founded and supported countless charities since then.
Meanwhile, back at the ‘office’, it was high time he married, and much of the world seemed to stand still for the Royal Wedding to Diana, the very young woman who would become the Princess to the World.
“The day he got married, millions of people worldwide watched the ceremony on television. Lady Diana, his bride, looked like a fairy-tale princess.”
The book then jumps to their divorce and her death, leaving Charles and their two sons to grieve.
“Sadly, Diana died one year after their divorce, leaving a deep hole in the hearts of their two sons, William and Harry, and of the whole world.”
This is followed immediately by Camilla.
“ When Charles married Camilla, his closest friend for thirty-five years, they bought a farm in Wales, far from any palace. There, he planted trees, talked to his plants, and ate organic food, inspiring others to live in harmony with nature, too.”
He has been working for years to bring business and governments together to protect the environment. When assuming duties on behalf of his ageing mother, Queen Elizabeth II, he travelled and continued representing the UK, becoming king at 73, after she died.
“From then on, he promised to serve his people with love and respect, just as he had done since he was a child. It had been a long journey for little Charles, and after a lifetime of preparing for the job, he hoped not to let anyone down.”
I’m not a monarchist, but I admire what King Charles III has accomplished, stuck as he was, and what I think of as his quiet, informed persistence. I think he may have inherited the best of two very different parents (not to mention the Queen Mother).
This is #97, another timely addition to the popular Little People, BIG DREAMS series,
Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review from which I’ve shared a few illustrations. (I like this artist better than some of the others. 😊)
Do check the three minute YouTube interview.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmEHJ...
For further reading, the author suggests It's Up to Us: A Children’s Terra Carta for Nature, People and Planet by Christopher Lloyd with a foreword by HRH King Charles III
February 12, 2023
What a fantastic addition to this series - King Charles!
This book allows us to peek behind the scenes and see what life was like for King Charles when he was a little boy. Children will learn that he is the longest-serving heir in British history - he became heir to the throne when he was three years old! When the Queen died last year, the 73-year-old grandpa added a new title to his name; one he’d been working on honouring for 70 years. This lover of nature, a keen devotee of environmental activism and a staunch supporter of creating a sustainable future is now known as King Charles III.
The photos are wonderful, perhaps some of the best of this series, the story is informative and the timeline ties it all together.
This would make a great coronation tea party present!
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.
This book allows us to peek behind the scenes and see what life was like for King Charles when he was a little boy. Children will learn that he is the longest-serving heir in British history - he became heir to the throne when he was three years old! When the Queen died last year, the 73-year-old grandpa added a new title to his name; one he’d been working on honouring for 70 years. This lover of nature, a keen devotee of environmental activism and a staunch supporter of creating a sustainable future is now known as King Charles III.
The photos are wonderful, perhaps some of the best of this series, the story is informative and the timeline ties it all together.
This would make a great coronation tea party present!
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.
May 3, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
King Charles is another great addition to the Little People Big Dreams series, and it is perfect to gift any child or classroom with the coronation nearly upon us.
The book is a short biography for children with fantastic illustrations and information that can be used for small discussions with children as the book is read. The book shows how Charles got inspiration as a young boy and how his grandmother helped to encourage his passions such as music, nature, and art, and how he was sent away to boarding school where his hobbies and interests helped him through his time there and helped shape him into the man he's become. It does touch on his marriages first to Diana and then Camilla. Another fun addition to this fantastic non-fiction series for children.
King Charles is another great addition to the Little People Big Dreams series, and it is perfect to gift any child or classroom with the coronation nearly upon us.
The book is a short biography for children with fantastic illustrations and information that can be used for small discussions with children as the book is read. The book shows how Charles got inspiration as a young boy and how his grandmother helped to encourage his passions such as music, nature, and art, and how he was sent away to boarding school where his hobbies and interests helped him through his time there and helped shape him into the man he's become. It does touch on his marriages first to Diana and then Camilla. Another fun addition to this fantastic non-fiction series for children.
February 10, 2023
Review to follow.
March 10, 2023
With the upcoming coronation of King Charles there will definitely be interest in his life. This is a good addition to the Little People, Big Dreams collection. I’ve read a few biographies of the King and am pleasantly surprised how simply and accurate his story is told. Diana’s portion of his life is summed up as they had a fairy-tail wedding watched by millions but they had very little in common and ended up separating. No mention of affairs, but instead Charles marries Camilla his closet friend for more than 35 years. Charles interests in climate change, architecture, agriculture and charitable work are all covered. The art work is always cute but I didn’t think that it is accurate as other books in the series. Nice simple biography geared for younger readers. I see this series as more for libraries unless you have a personal interest in the person covered. Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - France Lincoln Children’s Books for the temporary ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2023
Such a great read. I am a Diana fan through and through but this book definitely made me understand King Charles more. He is an interesting subject and my kids and I really enjoyed reading about him in an interesting way that kept all of us entertained.
February 26, 2023
We have other books in the series Little People, Big Dreams (Ghandi & Stephen Hawking) and enjoyed them. So when I saw this edition on NetGalley I had to snag it.
I read this with my daughter and she loved it. She enjoyed all the pages and it kept her attention until the end.
I don’t know much about the royal family but it was fun to learn a few facts about the new King.
I read this with my daughter and she loved it. She enjoyed all the pages and it kept her attention until the end.
I don’t know much about the royal family but it was fun to learn a few facts about the new King.
March 21, 2023
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara Once again Knocks it Out of the Ballpark with this Tale of Our New King of England.
(Thanks to Net Galley for this Book).
(Thanks to Net Galley for this Book).
March 2, 2023
I didn't know a lot about King Charles and so there were several things in this little book that surprised me. I had no idea he was such a long-standing supporter of the environment. That makes me think better of him.
I think the thing that surprised me the most was the tiny mention of Princess Diana. I suppose she was only a small part of his life, even though I (and I feel many people) know a lot more about her.
I haven't got the highest opinion of the monarchy, and I think this book definitely sugarcoats some things, but overall it was interesting.
The text is easy to understand for children and the illustrations are simple but lovely and convey a lot of personality.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing - Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing an early copy for review.
I think the thing that surprised me the most was the tiny mention of Princess Diana. I suppose she was only a small part of his life, even though I (and I feel many people) know a lot more about her.
I haven't got the highest opinion of the monarchy, and I think this book definitely sugarcoats some things, but overall it was interesting.
The text is easy to understand for children and the illustrations are simple but lovely and convey a lot of personality.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing - Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing an early copy for review.
February 20, 2023
first of all, WOW that was relatively quick for an illustrated book, since its only approximately 5 month when Prince Charles became King Charles
this was my first Little People, BIG DREAMS book I've ever read and I really love the illustrations. the narrative was simple yet effective, perfect for introducing King Charles to little kids. There's also historical timeline at the end of the book to support the story. Looking forward to read another book from this series!
this was my first Little People, BIG DREAMS book I've ever read and I really love the illustrations. the narrative was simple yet effective, perfect for introducing King Charles to little kids. There's also historical timeline at the end of the book to support the story. Looking forward to read another book from this series!
February 10, 2023
Another great title in the Little People, Big Dreams series! My kids loved learning about King Charles and the different causes he has championed through his long-standing royal career. I highly recommend this series for any young biography lovers!
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books and NetGalley for gifting my family with an ARC to review. We enjoyed it!
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books and NetGalley for gifting my family with an ARC to review. We enjoyed it!
February 13, 2023
ARC|GIFTED|AD|NETGALLEY. A great introduction for kids to the King. I enjoyed that it wasn't solely about him being a King but included things like his love of walks, nature, and Wales. I can imagine this being ideal for Primary School kids to begin learning some history. The illustrations, as always, were fantastic.
January 28, 2024
This is a rather sweet little volume, with enchanting illustrations - the riot of cheerful daffodils on the inside back cover in particular - and concentrates on Charles' conservation work and The Prince's Trust. It's also an oddly melancholic book, but I really can't put my finger on why. Still, it's a very nice read for all that.
Inevitably, a collection of Diana groupies have used their reviews and comments on this book to indulge in attacking the evil Charles, Camilla, and the late Queen for their alleged "awful, dreadful treatment" of the Sainted Diana. Using a children's book to push this agenda is utterly inappropriate.
Inevitably, a collection of Diana groupies have used their reviews and comments on this book to indulge in attacking the evil Charles, Camilla, and the late Queen for their alleged "awful, dreadful treatment" of the Sainted Diana. Using a children's book to push this agenda is utterly inappropriate.
January 25, 2023
Striking while the iron's hot, you could say, this volume in this humongous series sides with the charitable work and the environmental aspect of Charles III's life prior to becoming king, and ends with the hopeful note that he intended to reign without letting anyone down. It may well educate many with the details that he was a serving air force pilot, a history graduate and apparently (if the art is to be believed) donned an ugly old man's mac and blew bubbles on stage. But it's the goodwill and nature-friendly ethos of the man we're supposed to aspire to, and not royalty ourselves, which is of course as it should be. Three and a half stars rounded up – the artwork is as is so common with this series really dodgy, and so nobody looks like they should – but on the whole this is a commendable entry to the franchise, and the man's old enough already to limit the number of books like this about him, so I'd posit this remains the best of its kind.
June 1, 2024
Topical reading for the lad ahead of King’s birthday weekend in NZ. Whatever you think of the monarchy it’s good to know about important figures, and this series is great for introducing them.
May 2, 2025
Got this book from my library mostly to piss off my Scottish partner but I did learn a thing or two about Charles.
April 13, 2023
I was kind of intrigued that they would come out with a book for King Charles already for children just since we haven't really seen King Charles but rather just Prince Charles thus that particular story is unraveling. And also as a result I feel the book is wrongly named and that it would be better overall to see him as the Prince since basically he has been such for seventy-three years while having made lots of changes thus proving that you don't have to be a king or worldwide leader to make those changes to occur.
The book seems to also make Charles out to be the misunderstood fellow by showcasing him as a neglected child for his whole childhood since his parents aren't by him as a child, his grandmother is the only one in sight before school and then even when he finally made it to school he was still alone even though it was "practical". And then the book showcases him as finally hitting his more mature years where he slowly starts to find himself and what that self means.
Meanwhile the rest of the book is hurried with quick touchdowns for the major milestones of his seventy-some years. I wanted to know more about why the Welsh were so against Charles but that wasn't acknowledged but instead the book rushed on to the result of that, there was a quick dip for the marriage to Diana and in trying to maintain it kid-friendly it didn't discuss what it meant to share duties with, a very swift dip for the result chaos of their broken marriage and then a bit longer drop for Camilla who just "appeared" as a long-time friend before returning all to young Prince Charles as well as what he may mean to the future.
The illustrations were colored but it seemed in a rather muted tone instead of what children would normally see. The characters were a bit defined but not enough that a child would be able to pick out many of the different faces from each other and the fact that they chose to leave Harry's signature red hair off in the inclusion of his one appearance just was unbelievable.
At the end of the book there are some black-and-white photographs of Charles and from what I have seen out of another book from the series it is meant to be a timeline and a further in-depth bio but one that is missing from this book. As such I find it disappointing since maybe there would have been included a bit more information to clarify what is found in the book.
For adults who want their children to learn more about the upcoming King Charles this is a great start even if the title is a part misleading due to the content within the book. As for an actual in-depth glance, though, readers, especially the older ones, will find the book seriously lacking and flat in its actual presentation of the man who is to be coronated the next King of England.
**I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
The book seems to also make Charles out to be the misunderstood fellow by showcasing him as a neglected child for his whole childhood since his parents aren't by him as a child, his grandmother is the only one in sight before school and then even when he finally made it to school he was still alone even though it was "practical". And then the book showcases him as finally hitting his more mature years where he slowly starts to find himself and what that self means.
Meanwhile the rest of the book is hurried with quick touchdowns for the major milestones of his seventy-some years. I wanted to know more about why the Welsh were so against Charles but that wasn't acknowledged but instead the book rushed on to the result of that, there was a quick dip for the marriage to Diana and in trying to maintain it kid-friendly it didn't discuss what it meant to share duties with, a very swift dip for the result chaos of their broken marriage and then a bit longer drop for Camilla who just "appeared" as a long-time friend before returning all to young Prince Charles as well as what he may mean to the future.
The illustrations were colored but it seemed in a rather muted tone instead of what children would normally see. The characters were a bit defined but not enough that a child would be able to pick out many of the different faces from each other and the fact that they chose to leave Harry's signature red hair off in the inclusion of his one appearance just was unbelievable.
At the end of the book there are some black-and-white photographs of Charles and from what I have seen out of another book from the series it is meant to be a timeline and a further in-depth bio but one that is missing from this book. As such I find it disappointing since maybe there would have been included a bit more information to clarify what is found in the book.
For adults who want their children to learn more about the upcoming King Charles this is a great start even if the title is a part misleading due to the content within the book. As for an actual in-depth glance, though, readers, especially the older ones, will find the book seriously lacking and flat in its actual presentation of the man who is to be coronated the next King of England.
**I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
April 2, 2023
My thanks to Quarto Group - Francis Lincoln Children’s Books for a temporary digital edition via NetGalley of ‘King Charles’ by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara with illustrations by Matt Hunt.
This is No. 97 in the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series of illustrated mini-biographies for readers aged 4-7. They are intended to introduce children to the lives of public figures across a variety of fields.
In this volume it is the turn of King Charles III: from his birth in 1948 through to the present day as he embarks upon the role that was always designated to him as the first-born of the future Queen Elizabeth II. The author focuses a great deal upon Charles’ love of nature and his commitment to the environment. As I spent a number of years working in this field I was well aware of his tireless work in these fields.
I was curious as to how Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara would address the matter of King Charles’ marriage to Diana Spencer, their subsequent divorce, and his later remarriage. The matter was dealt with the kind of sensitivity that she has exhibited in other of her books where there was controversial material. Time enough for young readers to learn of the more complicated aspects of peoples’ lives.
As usual the book concludes with a biographical timeline accompanied by illuminating photographs and a suggestion for further reading at an older level.
I really liked Matt Hunt’s art. He utilised quite a cool, pastel palette and some of the images were very reminiscent of classic British pastoral artwork with an emphasis on nature.
This is a very timely addition to the series and an excellent way to introduce young readers to our new monarch. As always, I am happy to recommend this book and the series in general to parents, guardians, educators, and librarians.
This is No. 97 in the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series of illustrated mini-biographies for readers aged 4-7. They are intended to introduce children to the lives of public figures across a variety of fields.
In this volume it is the turn of King Charles III: from his birth in 1948 through to the present day as he embarks upon the role that was always designated to him as the first-born of the future Queen Elizabeth II. The author focuses a great deal upon Charles’ love of nature and his commitment to the environment. As I spent a number of years working in this field I was well aware of his tireless work in these fields.
I was curious as to how Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara would address the matter of King Charles’ marriage to Diana Spencer, their subsequent divorce, and his later remarriage. The matter was dealt with the kind of sensitivity that she has exhibited in other of her books where there was controversial material. Time enough for young readers to learn of the more complicated aspects of peoples’ lives.
As usual the book concludes with a biographical timeline accompanied by illuminating photographs and a suggestion for further reading at an older level.
I really liked Matt Hunt’s art. He utilised quite a cool, pastel palette and some of the images were very reminiscent of classic British pastoral artwork with an emphasis on nature.
This is a very timely addition to the series and an excellent way to introduce young readers to our new monarch. As always, I am happy to recommend this book and the series in general to parents, guardians, educators, and librarians.
June 3, 2023
King Charles is a great addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series. I was not a fan of Charles, specifically due to his treatment of Diana (having an affair with Camilla while he was married) and his staid personality and treatment of his children, but I have a different perspective after reading this book with two of my grandchildren. The story starts with is birth being announce by the bells of Westminster and follows his life to his mother becoming queen when he was three, his grandmother spending time with him and encouraging his love of art, nature, and music, to being sent to boarding school, college, two marriages, two children and then becoming King. What I never knew about him was his work with environmentalists and encouraging countries and companies to help preserve the planet. I didn't know how active he had been on several charity's behalf or that he set up a charity to help young people fulfill their dreams with his own money he earned in the military. I guess he isn't such a bad guy after all. I liked the illustrations in this book, they added to the story. My grandchildren don't know much about the monarchy (even though we are in the commonwealth) and neither of them were really interested in this book, which I thought was too bad. I think my granddaughter would have been more interested if it had been about a princess. Overall, I really liked this book and think it is a good one to have in libraries and homes. It gives readers a different perspective than what is in the tabloids and newspapers.
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 worthy instalment in the excellent Little People Big Dreams series, which is always a favourite with my family.
The subject this time is King Charles, and the book tells of how he was thrust into the limelight at just 3 years old when his mother became Queen. It describes how after struggling with loneliness at boarding school, he then excelled at college, where he also got to explore his artistic side. While in college, he also developed a love for the outdoors and a deep appreciation of nature, and vowed to use his position to help protect these resources. The book also references the many good causes that he supports, and the charity work he has done down through the years prove the lives of young people, work that he intends to continue now that he has become King.
The mini-biography of Charles (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 the new monarch.
It’s 5 stars from me, and I look forward to seeing what subjects are chosen for future instalments in the series.
This is another worthy instalment in the excellent Little People Big Dreams series, which is always a favourite with my family.
The subject this time is King Charles, and the book tells of how he was thrust into the limelight at just 3 years old when his mother became Queen. It describes how after struggling with loneliness at boarding school, he then excelled at college, where he also got to explore his artistic side. While in college, he also developed a love for the outdoors and a deep appreciation of nature, and vowed to use his position to help protect these resources. The book also references the many good causes that he supports, and the charity work he has done down through the years prove the lives of young people, work that he intends to continue now that he has become King.
The mini-biography of Charles (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 the new monarch.
It’s 5 stars from me, and I look forward to seeing what subjects are chosen for future instalments in the series.
May 7, 2023
We already have a few other titles from the Little People, BIG DREAMS series on our bookshelves at home so we were happy to add this new book about the life of King Charles, in time for his coronation!
The book begins with the birth of Charles in 1948. By the age of three, as the son of Queen Elizabeth II, he was the heir to the throne of the United Kingdom and a future king!
It explains how Charles has always loved nature and cared about the environment. He worried about the effect of pollution on our planet and became a climate campaigner.
He has also spent many years doing charity work and creating The Princes’s Trust which helps improve the lives of young people in the UK. Since becoming King in 2022, after his mother Elizabeth II died, he promised to continue his good work and loyally serve and respect his subjects for the rest of his life.
We enjoy the layout and style of these biography books for kids. They have simple, bright illustrations and present the life story of the person in a child friendly way. Young readers will feel like they are reading a story while learning details about King Charles’ life. I like the fact section at the back of the books which include a biographical timeline, personal profile and real-life photos of Charles as a little prince up to him as the grown-up king.
The book begins with the birth of Charles in 1948. By the age of three, as the son of Queen Elizabeth II, he was the heir to the throne of the United Kingdom and a future king!
It explains how Charles has always loved nature and cared about the environment. He worried about the effect of pollution on our planet and became a climate campaigner.
He has also spent many years doing charity work and creating The Princes’s Trust which helps improve the lives of young people in the UK. Since becoming King in 2022, after his mother Elizabeth II died, he promised to continue his good work and loyally serve and respect his subjects for the rest of his life.
We enjoy the layout and style of these biography books for kids. They have simple, bright illustrations and present the life story of the person in a child friendly way. Young readers will feel like they are reading a story while learning details about King Charles’ life. I like the fact section at the back of the books which include a biographical timeline, personal profile and real-life photos of Charles as a little prince up to him as the grown-up king.
September 2, 2025
For me this book captures in essence the preparation of the Princess of Wales to be King!
Consequently, the text is carefully chosen and enriches the story of a young man whose dream was to be the next monarch once his mother, the Queen died.
His life was one of preparation and because of his destiny he never had too much choice in the major decisions associated within the Royal Family; from education, military service and perhaps his future partner.
I feel coupled with the excellent illustrations the story is perfectly laid out for young minds who will read and share this book.
Matt Hunt has shared in this project through his colourful drawings and highlighting aspects of Charles’ life. I loved the “Gary Lineker” ears which surely were a blessing at the King’s coronation, saving the crown from slipping off his head. I liked especially the effort he made to embrace his role as Prince of Wales.
Now as King, in later life, we can reflect on a long period of preparation, a man of conviction, passionate for the environment and inspirational through his charity work for young people. Now as king, he has pledged himself to serve and use his influence for the betterment of society and for the good of all.
Consequently, the text is carefully chosen and enriches the story of a young man whose dream was to be the next monarch once his mother, the Queen died.
His life was one of preparation and because of his destiny he never had too much choice in the major decisions associated within the Royal Family; from education, military service and perhaps his future partner.
I feel coupled with the excellent illustrations the story is perfectly laid out for young minds who will read and share this book.
Matt Hunt has shared in this project through his colourful drawings and highlighting aspects of Charles’ life. I loved the “Gary Lineker” ears which surely were a blessing at the King’s coronation, saving the crown from slipping off his head. I liked especially the effort he made to embrace his role as Prince of Wales.
Now as King, in later life, we can reflect on a long period of preparation, a man of conviction, passionate for the environment and inspirational through his charity work for young people. Now as king, he has pledged himself to serve and use his influence for the betterment of society and for the good of all.
February 23, 2023
Just in time for the coronation, here is a children’s biography of Charles. Kids will learn about the ways in which he is both like and different from them. Interestingly, Charles has had to live with a more clearly defined role than many others who are profiled in the series.
The author gently mentions things that have been difficult for Charles. When he was a child, his parents were often away. He went to a boarding school where he felt quite alone. Also noted is that Charles and Diana had little in common. However, Sanchez Vegara also acknowledges when things got better.
While some of Charles life was laid out for him, kids also learn about things that became important to him on his own. For example, he has had a long standing interest in and commitment to the natural world. Charles’s interest in caring for the planet long preceded current concerns. Charitable contributions are also acknowledged as is his desire to be a good king.
The illustrator does a wonderful job of capturing the look of Charles. He adds greatly to the book’s appeal.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group. All opinions are my own.
The author gently mentions things that have been difficult for Charles. When he was a child, his parents were often away. He went to a boarding school where he felt quite alone. Also noted is that Charles and Diana had little in common. However, Sanchez Vegara also acknowledges when things got better.
While some of Charles life was laid out for him, kids also learn about things that became important to him on his own. For example, he has had a long standing interest in and commitment to the natural world. Charles’s interest in caring for the planet long preceded current concerns. Charitable contributions are also acknowledged as is his desire to be a good king.
The illustrator does a wonderful job of capturing the look of Charles. He adds greatly to the book’s appeal.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group. All opinions are my own.
March 26, 2023
King Charles by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara within this wonderful Little People, BIG DREAMS series we discover the incredible life of King Charles and this book was one of my Favourites.
Little Charles always knew that, one day, he would have a big job to do As the son of Queen Elizabeth II, he was a prince, and in the future, he was to inherit the throne of the United Kingdom .
As a young man, he developed a passion for one cause: the environment. Charles recognised that plastics and pollutants were causing harm to Earth, and as the Prince of Wales, he spent all his efforts championing climate justice and sustainability .
As a member of the Royal Family, Charles used his power to build important organisations such as The Prince’s Trust, a charity that works to improve the lives of young people across the UK .
And in 2022, when he became King, he pledged that he would spend the rest of his life serving his people with loyalty, respect, and love .
This book was one of her best!
These books were a wonderful find and great for small children to learn about these wonderful people of our past and in the present.
I highly recommend these books. I love them.
Little Charles always knew that, one day, he would have a big job to do As the son of Queen Elizabeth II, he was a prince, and in the future, he was to inherit the throne of the United Kingdom .
As a young man, he developed a passion for one cause: the environment. Charles recognised that plastics and pollutants were causing harm to Earth, and as the Prince of Wales, he spent all his efforts championing climate justice and sustainability .
As a member of the Royal Family, Charles used his power to build important organisations such as The Prince’s Trust, a charity that works to improve the lives of young people across the UK .
And in 2022, when he became King, he pledged that he would spend the rest of his life serving his people with loyalty, respect, and love .
This book was one of her best!
These books were a wonderful find and great for small children to learn about these wonderful people of our past and in the present.
I highly recommend these books. I love them.
October 18, 2023
Overall, I thought this was a nice addition to the series. It focuses on Charles's upbringing and conservation efforts most. It very briefly mentions Diana and I chuckled at it calling Camilla a long time "friend". (Although I suppose discussing how both Charles and Diana were cheating on each other and Camilla was the other woman would not be appropriate for the series. Given the fact that many books and depictions have given Diana a free pass and made Charles and Camilla to be the villains, it was nice that this book provides a neutral and child appropriate view. Both were imperfect human beings who made mistakes and it was complicated... but they should be recognized for their good contributions.) So all in all, this book struck a decent balance and my kids enjoyed it. They were excited to learn he was still alive as many biographies we read are of past individuals. My five year old boldy stated that we should go visit him right now. While the sweet innocence and naivety of assuming we could just go visit the king had me laughing, I think we will stick to learning more about him through literature.
February 15, 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.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: This book may end up being one of her more controversial ones. It doesn't lie, but it does certainly gloss over what happened with Diana and Camilla. I think some adults may take umbrage with the characterization there. It also ignores much of the controversy surrounding Charles. It paints him as somebody who is concerned with the environment and young people. It is not unfactual, but I think some may take issue with it.
I also agree with others that the illustration style in this one is different than in her others.
I enjoyed it for what it was, and I think many others will really enjoy this one.
Pages: 32 pages.
Reading age: 4-9.
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.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: This book may end up being one of her more controversial ones. It doesn't lie, but it does certainly gloss over what happened with Diana and Camilla. I think some adults may take umbrage with the characterization there. It also ignores much of the controversy surrounding Charles. It paints him as somebody who is concerned with the environment and young people. It is not unfactual, but I think some may take issue with it.
I also agree with others that the illustration style in this one is different than in her others.
I enjoyed it for what it was, and I think many others will really enjoy this one.
Pages: 32 pages.
Reading age: 4-9.
Love,
Danica Page
May 8, 2023
Little People, Big Dreams: King Charles. Illustraties: Matt Hunt. Tekst: Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara.
Eerlijk is eerlijk: ik ben ‘team Harry’. Een boek over King Charles staat dan ook niet op mijn wishlist, dacht ik. Want toen verscheen er een deeltje over Charles in de Little People reeks en aangezien ik alle deeltjes al heb mocht ook dit niet ontbreken.
Dus nu heb ik een King Charles boek in huis. En wat voor één!? Super leuk en mooi én boeiend. Echt, ik ben bijna (bijna) fan van Charles Phillip Arthur George geworden. Ik leerde dat hij zich inzet voor het milieu, biologisch eet en dat hij op zijn eenentwintigste al een toespraak hield in verband met de opwarming van de aarde. Allemaal dingen die me nauw aan het hart liggen.
Dat is de kracht van deze reeks: ze zet mensen op een heel toegankelijke manier in de kijker, ze verruimt je blik én ziet er altijd supermooi uit! In dit geval een groot applaus voor Matt Hunt; zijn tekeningen zijn én realistisch én super schattig tegelijk.
Ik ben en blijf een grote fan van deze prachtige reeks!
Eerlijk is eerlijk: ik ben ‘team Harry’. Een boek over King Charles staat dan ook niet op mijn wishlist, dacht ik. Want toen verscheen er een deeltje over Charles in de Little People reeks en aangezien ik alle deeltjes al heb mocht ook dit niet ontbreken.
Dus nu heb ik een King Charles boek in huis. En wat voor één!? Super leuk en mooi én boeiend. Echt, ik ben bijna (bijna) fan van Charles Phillip Arthur George geworden. Ik leerde dat hij zich inzet voor het milieu, biologisch eet en dat hij op zijn eenentwintigste al een toespraak hield in verband met de opwarming van de aarde. Allemaal dingen die me nauw aan het hart liggen.
Dat is de kracht van deze reeks: ze zet mensen op een heel toegankelijke manier in de kijker, ze verruimt je blik én ziet er altijd supermooi uit! In dit geval een groot applaus voor Matt Hunt; zijn tekeningen zijn én realistisch én super schattig tegelijk.
Ik ben en blijf een grote fan van deze prachtige reeks!
February 17, 2023
From the pealing bells of Westminster Abbey announcing the birth of Prince Charles to the death of his mother, Charles' has had a full life preparing to become king. And now he has, at age 73.
This sweet little book introduces young readers to "the man who would be king," providing glimpses into Charles' life, both past and present. Did you know Charles was the first royal to earn a degree? Or that he performed inp lays and concerts as a young man? About his concern for the environment and love of nature, especially the Welsh countryside? It's all here in this charming little book.
Beautiful color illustrations accompany the text. Sentences are brief and easy to digest so as to not to over-tax young attention spans. Informative and engaging, "King Charles" offers a glimpse into Charles' life that will resonate with young readers. It would make an excellent addition to any young person's nonfiction library.
This sweet little book introduces young readers to "the man who would be king," providing glimpses into Charles' life, both past and present. Did you know Charles was the first royal to earn a degree? Or that he performed inp lays and concerts as a young man? About his concern for the environment and love of nature, especially the Welsh countryside? It's all here in this charming little book.
Beautiful color illustrations accompany the text. Sentences are brief and easy to digest so as to not to over-tax young attention spans. Informative and engaging, "King Charles" offers a glimpse into Charles' life that will resonate with young readers. It would make an excellent addition to any young person's nonfiction library.
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