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Katherine Johnson
Learn about the incredible story of Katherine Johnson! The trailblazer whose calculations changed the future of space exploration.
Little Katherine loved learning and her favorite subject was math. In class, she worked so hard that she was able to move up to high school four years early! Due to the racist laws of the time, Katherine's family had to move town for her to go to a school where Black students were admitted. After high school and college, she was accepted to one of West Virginia's top universities, and was the first Black woman to attend.
In 1953, she joined the U.S. space agency, which later became NASA. Alongside other talented African American women, Katherine's mathematical skills were essential to the early successes of the space programme. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission which landed the first people on the moon! Katherine’s tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us.
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling 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.
Little Katherine loved learning and her favorite subject was math. In class, she worked so hard that she was able to move up to high school four years early! Due to the racist laws of the time, Katherine's family had to move town for her to go to a school where Black students were admitted. After high school and college, she was accepted to one of West Virginia's top universities, and was the first Black woman to attend.
In 1953, she joined the U.S. space agency, which later became NASA. Alongside other talented African American women, Katherine's mathematical skills were essential to the early successes of the space programme. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission which landed the first people on the moon! Katherine’s tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us.
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling 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.
32 pages, Hardcover
Published January 7, 2025
4 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
196 books146 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 50 reviews
December 17, 2024
ARC for review. To be published January 7, 2025.
5 stars
“Once, in West Virginia, lived a Black girl named Katherine who lived numbers.”
Part of the “Little People, Big Dreams” series for children. This is the story of Katherine Johnson of “Hidden Figures” fame and starts when she was a child, and a high achiever in math in segregated schools in West Virginia. After high school and college she was then accepted into West Virginia’s top university, as the first Black woman to attend.
In 1953 she joined the U.S. Space Agency which later became NASA. There she, along with other brilliant Black women became an essential part of the nation’s space program.
Very well done and focuses on Johnson’s entire life. Lovely illustrations. Highly recommended.
5 stars
“Once, in West Virginia, lived a Black girl named Katherine who lived numbers.”
Part of the “Little People, Big Dreams” series for children. This is the story of Katherine Johnson of “Hidden Figures” fame and starts when she was a child, and a high achiever in math in segregated schools in West Virginia. After high school and college she was then accepted into West Virginia’s top university, as the first Black woman to attend.
In 1953 she joined the U.S. Space Agency which later became NASA. There she, along with other brilliant Black women became an essential part of the nation’s space program.
Very well done and focuses on Johnson’s entire life. Lovely illustrations. Highly recommended.
December 7, 2024
I have a stack of Little People Big Dreams series in my classroom, and I think this is a great addition to the series. I know this is not the first biography of Katherine Johnson out there, but I think it's really accessible for the younger readers. I'll definitely get one for my class when it's published!
Thanks to Netgalley for the digital ARC :)
Thanks to Netgalley for the digital ARC :)
November 15, 2024
I loved learning about the women behind Hidden Figured and I’m so glad to see that this is being made into a picture book for the young ones to learn!
November 12, 2024
I received an ARC for #KatherineJohnson from #NetGalley
This is the first time I made acquaintance of Katherine Johnson, whom I thought was a mathematic teacher. But she did more than that to be covered in such a wonderful series, isn't she? Yes, she was one of the brain behind the space mission that landed Neil Armstrong to the moon. Now am in awe of such a dedicated woman, wh0m through her hardship of being a black, can manage to do great things. Always love the works of Madame Sanchez Vegara, whom always assured children that they have role models to look up to.
This is the first time I made acquaintance of Katherine Johnson, whom I thought was a mathematic teacher. But she did more than that to be covered in such a wonderful series, isn't she? Yes, she was one of the brain behind the space mission that landed Neil Armstrong to the moon. Now am in awe of such a dedicated woman, wh0m through her hardship of being a black, can manage to do great things. Always love the works of Madame Sanchez Vegara, whom always assured children that they have role models to look up to.
November 10, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Katherine Johnson is a new biography for young readers in the Little People, Big Dreams series. These are all delightful and exuberant little books which cover the lives of famous cultural, science, arts, and innovative icons while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail. Due out 7th Jan 2025 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's 32 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
Succeeding throughout her life despite formidable hurdles in place because of the time period (mid 20th century) and area in which she was born (WV), as well as being a female person of color, Katherine Johnson was a wonderfully brilliant applied mathematician who refused to be cowed and whose expertise played a significant part in the early manned space program's success.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's written in clear accessible language. The gentle and sweetly whimsical illustrations are well done. The art by Jemma Skidmore is appealing and colorful and supports the text very well. The art is rich in small subtle details which bear a closer look (like the school scenes, her studies, her university days, and her work at NASA and even her acceptance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama).
Well written and appealing, all of these little books are worthwhile and enchanting. This one is a worthy addition. The author/publisher have also included a short timeline with photos in the back of the book as well as suggestions for further reading.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Mrs. Johnson was an intelligent and beloved figure and has become an icon for a more hopeful and cooperative future, an inspiration for girls choosing STEM educations, and this little book is a nice introduction to her life and work for the youngest generation.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
Katherine Johnson is a new biography for young readers in the Little People, Big Dreams series. These are all delightful and exuberant little books which cover the lives of famous cultural, science, arts, and innovative icons while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail. Due out 7th Jan 2025 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's 32 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
Succeeding throughout her life despite formidable hurdles in place because of the time period (mid 20th century) and area in which she was born (WV), as well as being a female person of color, Katherine Johnson was a wonderfully brilliant applied mathematician who refused to be cowed and whose expertise played a significant part in the early manned space program's success.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's written in clear accessible language. The gentle and sweetly whimsical illustrations are well done. The art by Jemma Skidmore is appealing and colorful and supports the text very well. The art is rich in small subtle details which bear a closer look (like the school scenes, her studies, her university days, and her work at NASA and even her acceptance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama).
Well written and appealing, all of these little books are worthwhile and enchanting. This one is a worthy addition. The author/publisher have also included a short timeline with photos in the back of the book as well as suggestions for further reading.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Mrs. Johnson was an intelligent and beloved figure and has become an icon for a more hopeful and cooperative future, an inspiration for girls choosing STEM educations, and this little book is a nice introduction to her life and work for the youngest generation.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
November 28, 2024
These books may be aimed at children but I always feel like I've learned something, too, after reading them. While I certainly knew who Katherine Johnson is and her role with NASA, I knew nothing about her life. Did you know she was so advanced in her studies that she was able to move to high school four years early? Since this was during a time when black students weren't offered such advantages everywhere, her family even had to move 120 miles away to make this happen. Since she seemed to inherit her love for numbers and study from her father, a black man forced to drop out of school at 12, this shows family love and support.
I won't detail the rest but will say the illustrations are bright and colorful. Numerical calculations scrawled across boards pop up here and there, too, one showing her atop a rolling ladder as she checks and rechecks and rechecks the calculations of engineers and later herself. In her head. On paper. After all, lives were on the line. Johnson, as many know, had a role in launching the first Americans into space, not to mention contributions to the successful conclusion other memorable flights. It was interesting to see how she had to deal not only with the idea that blacks couldn't possibly be equal to white, male engineers, but the woman thing, too. She persevered. I didn't realize she was once a teacher, so that was a new bit of info for me, too.
Bottom line, interesting and well written with simple but effective illustrations. Even those math challenged may find inspiration within as she represents what can be accomplished when you focus on your dreams. That rocket ship shown here and there among the calculations and doodles was no accident. The sky beckons dreamers and achievers. Thanks #QuartoPublishingGroup - #FrancesLincolnChildren'sBooks for this early look at a fascinating, meaningful life.
I won't detail the rest but will say the illustrations are bright and colorful. Numerical calculations scrawled across boards pop up here and there, too, one showing her atop a rolling ladder as she checks and rechecks and rechecks the calculations of engineers and later herself. In her head. On paper. After all, lives were on the line. Johnson, as many know, had a role in launching the first Americans into space, not to mention contributions to the successful conclusion other memorable flights. It was interesting to see how she had to deal not only with the idea that blacks couldn't possibly be equal to white, male engineers, but the woman thing, too. She persevered. I didn't realize she was once a teacher, so that was a new bit of info for me, too.
Bottom line, interesting and well written with simple but effective illustrations. Even those math challenged may find inspiration within as she represents what can be accomplished when you focus on your dreams. That rocket ship shown here and there among the calculations and doodles was no accident. The sky beckons dreamers and achievers. Thanks #QuartoPublishingGroup - #FrancesLincolnChildren'sBooks for this early look at a fascinating, meaningful life.
November 3, 2024
My review will be live on my blog - donnasbookblog on 7 January 2025 - publication day!
I love this series, as soon as I see a new book is released I have to grab a copy!
This is another brilliant addition to this series – even as an adult I look out for the next book in the series being released and now my daughter is 7 and fully reading independently I love being able to share the new releases with her and she read the books to me - she loves finding out about the people chosen in the series.
The books are an excellent introductions to some of the well-known, and less well-known, characters that have had a great impact in our lives through a variety of subjects such as literature, women’s rights and science.
This book features Katherine Johnson and as my daughter learnt about space in her last term at school it was a great topic as we had talked about Mae Jemison who was the first black woman in space and also a release in this series before. My daughter is space mad and she loves mathematics and excels at it at the moment in school so Katherine really intrigued her and I think she is a brilliant role model and inspirational tool - just such a shame it too so long for her, and the others that worked on the projects to get her the acknowledgement and praise deserved, but that also allowed us to discuss the differences between the past and now and Black History month which has just ended for her at school too.
Katherine is an inspiration to me and her story should be shared with children to show what she managed to achieve despite the political situations and the way that Black people were treated at the time in the USA - she is a fabulous role model. It is 5 stars from me for this one – a delightful read and one I will be very highly recommending!!
I love this series, as soon as I see a new book is released I have to grab a copy!
This is another brilliant addition to this series – even as an adult I look out for the next book in the series being released and now my daughter is 7 and fully reading independently I love being able to share the new releases with her and she read the books to me - she loves finding out about the people chosen in the series.
The books are an excellent introductions to some of the well-known, and less well-known, characters that have had a great impact in our lives through a variety of subjects such as literature, women’s rights and science.
This book features Katherine Johnson and as my daughter learnt about space in her last term at school it was a great topic as we had talked about Mae Jemison who was the first black woman in space and also a release in this series before. My daughter is space mad and she loves mathematics and excels at it at the moment in school so Katherine really intrigued her and I think she is a brilliant role model and inspirational tool - just such a shame it too so long for her, and the others that worked on the projects to get her the acknowledgement and praise deserved, but that also allowed us to discuss the differences between the past and now and Black History month which has just ended for her at school too.
Katherine is an inspiration to me and her story should be shared with children to show what she managed to achieve despite the political situations and the way that Black people were treated at the time in the USA - she is a fabulous role model. It is 5 stars from me for this one – a delightful read and one I will be very highly recommending!!
January 17, 2025
I just love reading these little book by Little People, BIG DREAMS, These book are a bestselling 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. So when Katherine Johnson by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara came available I had to read this book with my nephew who also loves reading these colourful books.
Katherine Johnson loved learning and her favourite subject was math. In class, she worked so hard that she was able to move up to high school four years early! Due to the racist laws of the time, Katherine's family had to move town for her to go to a school where Black students were admitted. After high school and college, she was accepted to one of West Virginia's top universities, and was the first Black woman to attend.
In 1953, she joined the U.S. space agency, which later became NASA. Alongside other talented African American women, Katherine's mathematical skills were essential to the early successes of the space programme. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission which landed the first people on the moon! Katherine’s tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us.
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
A wonderful read and great books for children to learn about famous people who may not be with us now, they should never be forgotten and for famous people who are still alive to learn about why they became famous etc.
Katherine Johnson loved learning and her favourite subject was math. In class, she worked so hard that she was able to move up to high school four years early! Due to the racist laws of the time, Katherine's family had to move town for her to go to a school where Black students were admitted. After high school and college, she was accepted to one of West Virginia's top universities, and was the first Black woman to attend.
In 1953, she joined the U.S. space agency, which later became NASA. Alongside other talented African American women, Katherine's mathematical skills were essential to the early successes of the space programme. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission which landed the first people on the moon! Katherine’s tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us.
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
A wonderful read and great books for children to learn about famous people who may not be with us now, they should never be forgotten and for famous people who are still alive to learn about why they became famous etc.
December 4, 2024
Little People, Big Dreams
Katherine Johnson
by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
Pub DateJan 07 2025
Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books |Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Biographies & Memoirs| Children's Nonfiction| Professional & Technical
I am reviewing Little People, Big Dreams, Katherine Johnson, through Quarto Publishing Group and Netgalley:
This book is perfect for ypunger kids interested in Stem based subjects!
Get to know Katherine Johnson and her incredible story! A trailblazer whose calculations changed the future of space exploration.
Katherine enjoyed learning, and math was her favorite subject. She worked so hard in class that she was able to move up to high school four years early! Due to racist laws of the time, Katherine's family had to move to a town where Black students could attend school. She was the first Black woman to attend one of West Virginia's top universities after high school and college. She was the first Black woman to attend a West Virginia university after high school and college.
In 1953, she joined NASA, which became the U.S. space agency. Katherine's mathematical skills contributed to the early success of the space programme along with those of other talented African American women. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission that landed the first humans on the moon! Katherine’s tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us. Katherine's tenacity and expertise helped usher in a new era for humanity, making her an inspiration to all.
I give Little People, Big Dreams five out offivestars!
Happy Reading!
Katherine Johnson
by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
Pub DateJan 07 2025
Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books |Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Biographies & Memoirs| Children's Nonfiction| Professional & Technical
I am reviewing Little People, Big Dreams, Katherine Johnson, through Quarto Publishing Group and Netgalley:
This book is perfect for ypunger kids interested in Stem based subjects!
Get to know Katherine Johnson and her incredible story! A trailblazer whose calculations changed the future of space exploration.
Katherine enjoyed learning, and math was her favorite subject. She worked so hard in class that she was able to move up to high school four years early! Due to racist laws of the time, Katherine's family had to move to a town where Black students could attend school. She was the first Black woman to attend one of West Virginia's top universities after high school and college. She was the first Black woman to attend a West Virginia university after high school and college.
In 1953, she joined NASA, which became the U.S. space agency. Katherine's mathematical skills contributed to the early success of the space programme along with those of other talented African American women. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission that landed the first humans on the moon! Katherine’s tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us. Katherine's tenacity and expertise helped usher in a new era for humanity, making her an inspiration to all.
I give Little People, Big Dreams five out offivestars!
Happy Reading!
January 15, 2025
I'd like to start my review by extending a thank you to the author, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, the illustrator, Jemma Skidmore, the publisher, Frances Lincoln Childrens Books, and Net*Galley for the opportunity to read this children's picture biography of Katherine Johnson. I will share my review to Amazon and Barnes & Noble upon release.
I love the Little People, Big Dreams series, and this one is no exception. This book tells the store of a young Black scientist from West Virginia who faced a huge amount of struggle and difficulty in her career at NASA. Her contributions to space exploration, science, and the United States are enormous, and show that despite hardship, amazing people like Katherine are able to overcome and contribute to the society that doesn't fully value their humanity. I'm glad children will have a way to learn about such a valuable and commendable member of our history, and this book is full of cute illustrations and context about her story in order to share that story in an entertaining and engaging way. At the end, there is more context and a timeline with real pictures of Katherine Johnson in order to provide more information. I would definitely recommend this book for any child's library, but especially for little girls who need to see themselves in subjects like STEM. This would also be great for school and classroom libraries. Thanks again for the privilege!
I love the Little People, Big Dreams series, and this one is no exception. This book tells the store of a young Black scientist from West Virginia who faced a huge amount of struggle and difficulty in her career at NASA. Her contributions to space exploration, science, and the United States are enormous, and show that despite hardship, amazing people like Katherine are able to overcome and contribute to the society that doesn't fully value their humanity. I'm glad children will have a way to learn about such a valuable and commendable member of our history, and this book is full of cute illustrations and context about her story in order to share that story in an entertaining and engaging way. At the end, there is more context and a timeline with real pictures of Katherine Johnson in order to provide more information. I would definitely recommend this book for any child's library, but especially for little girls who need to see themselves in subjects like STEM. This would also be great for school and classroom libraries. Thanks again for the privilege!
January 21, 2025
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara has written four children’s biographies that will be released in early 2025: Katherine Johnson, David Beckham, Patrick Mahones, and Yayoi Kusama. These books are part of the bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS biography series for kids. Each book is 32 pages and beautifully illustrated. They are perfect for reading to small children during “quiet time”.
Katherine Johnson’s calculations changed the future of space exploration. Young Katherine loved learning and math was her favorite subject in school. She was so advanced that she was able to go to high school four years early. Her family had to move to a different town in order for her to go to a school where Black students were admitted. She was the first Black woman to attend her West Virginia university.
In 1953, she joined the U.S. space agency, which later became NASA. Katherine was part of a team of talented African American women whose mathematical skills were essential to the Apollo 11 mission, which landed the first people on the moon
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) from NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Katherine Johnson’s calculations changed the future of space exploration. Young Katherine loved learning and math was her favorite subject in school. She was so advanced that she was able to go to high school four years early. Her family had to move to a different town in order for her to go to a school where Black students were admitted. She was the first Black woman to attend her West Virginia university.
In 1953, she joined the U.S. space agency, which later became NASA. Katherine was part of a team of talented African American women whose mathematical skills were essential to the Apollo 11 mission, which landed the first people on the moon
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) from NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 19, 2024
Another wonderful addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series! As a woman who studied mathematics and is currently an engineer, I've always been a huge fan of Katherine Johnson and it is great to share her accomplishments with young kids.
The illustrations in the book are vibrant, the story told in 1-2 sentences per page. It sums up Katherine Johnson's life from leaving school at twelve to becoming the first black woman to graduate from a top university in West Virginia, her first job as a calculator, and eventually helping land a man on the moon because of her mathematical skills. And as always, I enjoyed the brief timeline with real pictures of Katherine Johnson at the end of the book.
I highly recommend this for anyone with young children with an interest in math, science, or space. It's a great little intro to important issues, historical landmarks, and the importance of mathematics in space exploration. Of course, its also just great to learn about an amazing woman of color or read it along with the movie Hidden Figures (which is rated PG).
5/5 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The illustrations in the book are vibrant, the story told in 1-2 sentences per page. It sums up Katherine Johnson's life from leaving school at twelve to becoming the first black woman to graduate from a top university in West Virginia, her first job as a calculator, and eventually helping land a man on the moon because of her mathematical skills. And as always, I enjoyed the brief timeline with real pictures of Katherine Johnson at the end of the book.
I highly recommend this for anyone with young children with an interest in math, science, or space. It's a great little intro to important issues, historical landmarks, and the importance of mathematics in space exploration. Of course, its also just great to learn about an amazing woman of color or read it along with the movie Hidden Figures (which is rated PG).
5/5 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 30, 2024
I have to admit, a little sheepishly, that I didn’t know much about Katherine Johnson before reading this book. I’d heard of NASA and space travel, and I knew about discrimination, but Katherine’s story opened a door to a whole new world for me. It was fascinating and so inspiring!
The book is a wonderful introduction to Katherine’s life, told in a way that’s easy to understand and perfect for young readers. It shows how she grew up loving math and solving puzzles, eventually becoming one of the smartest and bravest women at NASA. She worked hard, even when things were unfair, and proved that anyone can achieve their dreams if they believe in themselves and never give up.
I especially loved how the book explains the challenges Katherine faced and how kind, supportive people helped her along the way. It’s an inspiring reminder that we can all make a difference by helping others shine.
This is such a sweet and uplifting story, and it’s perfect for children who love learning about space, history, or amazing real-life heroes. After reading it, I can’t wait to learn more about Katherine Johnson and other incredible women like her. I highly recommend it—kids and parents alike will enjoy it! 😊
The book is a wonderful introduction to Katherine’s life, told in a way that’s easy to understand and perfect for young readers. It shows how she grew up loving math and solving puzzles, eventually becoming one of the smartest and bravest women at NASA. She worked hard, even when things were unfair, and proved that anyone can achieve their dreams if they believe in themselves and never give up.
I especially loved how the book explains the challenges Katherine faced and how kind, supportive people helped her along the way. It’s an inspiring reminder that we can all make a difference by helping others shine.
This is such a sweet and uplifting story, and it’s perfect for children who love learning about space, history, or amazing real-life heroes. After reading it, I can’t wait to learn more about Katherine Johnson and other incredible women like her. I highly recommend it—kids and parents alike will enjoy it! 😊
November 10, 2024
Katherine Johnson is a children's picture book about an African American mathematiciam whose calculations helped put a man on the moon. The book spotlights how racist policy served as an obstacle for her career. From university student, to teacher, to calculation reviewer, to engineer, the book follows her through all the steps in her career. I would recommend this book for ages 5-8. This book is an excellent addition to a classroom and a home library to increase childrens content about African American history or Women in STEM. Many adults would recognize the Katherine Johnson from the recent historical drama film, Hidden Figures.
The illustrations of this book are painted with generous detail. I love the way hair is styled and decorated, and the diversity of facial expressions are a real talent of this artist. My favorite pictures are the university campus, with its flowering pink trees, and the award ceremony for her receiving the Medal of Freedom, just because of how wonderful Obama's smile is.
Thanks to Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Quarto Publishing Group for giving me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The illustrations of this book are painted with generous detail. I love the way hair is styled and decorated, and the diversity of facial expressions are a real talent of this artist. My favorite pictures are the university campus, with its flowering pink trees, and the award ceremony for her receiving the Medal of Freedom, just because of how wonderful Obama's smile is.
Thanks to Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Quarto Publishing Group for giving me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2024
Thank you so much to Quarto Publishing Group /Frances Lincoln Children's Books and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
Katherine Johnson loved numbers, loved counting and calculating. She had to go through a lot of pushing to achieve her dreams as a black woman in a time where she couldn’t always go after her dreams. She didn’t let anything get in her way and she pushed and became an incredibly important person to NASA.
I didn’t know much about her before reading this so i liked getting to see more about her life, about how she managed to accomplish all her dreams. She’s a very inspiring woman as she had a skill set that she was not just excellent at but that she loved doing. She continued to grow with her skills and then became an asset to so many people. She helped ensure that anyone going to space in her time of work were safe to do so.
I really enjoyed this book getting to learn about someone I wouldn’t really know anything about. This series always does a good job of sharing the inspiring stories of the people they’re based on, they’re easy to read with large illustrations to look at and showcase so many unique and interesting people.
Katherine Johnson loved numbers, loved counting and calculating. She had to go through a lot of pushing to achieve her dreams as a black woman in a time where she couldn’t always go after her dreams. She didn’t let anything get in her way and she pushed and became an incredibly important person to NASA.
I didn’t know much about her before reading this so i liked getting to see more about her life, about how she managed to accomplish all her dreams. She’s a very inspiring woman as she had a skill set that she was not just excellent at but that she loved doing. She continued to grow with her skills and then became an asset to so many people. She helped ensure that anyone going to space in her time of work were safe to do so.
I really enjoyed this book getting to learn about someone I wouldn’t really know anything about. This series always does a good job of sharing the inspiring stories of the people they’re based on, they’re easy to read with large illustrations to look at and showcase so many unique and interesting people.
January 4, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for gifted copy. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Little People, BIG DREAMS series is a staple in my household. My children have loved and have continued to love these books! Truly, they have grown up reading these books more than they have seen Dr. Seuss. I personally enjoy that these books make it very easy and enjoyable for children as young as 4 and older to enjoy and learn about the person who it is written about. I like that there is enough information and illustration that it isn't overwhelming for a child. Sure, you can say that there could be much more information, but I think that it is truly more than enough for a child as young as 4 could comprehend.
My children and I just read through this book after downloading it and it was nicely written. I am glad that Katherine Johnson was added to the list of people for young people to learn about. Her journey and work for NASA is incredible to say the least. This book is inspiring and educational especially for young girls to see that anything is possible to achieve.
Little People, BIG DREAMS series is a staple in my household. My children have loved and have continued to love these books! Truly, they have grown up reading these books more than they have seen Dr. Seuss. I personally enjoy that these books make it very easy and enjoyable for children as young as 4 and older to enjoy and learn about the person who it is written about. I like that there is enough information and illustration that it isn't overwhelming for a child. Sure, you can say that there could be much more information, but I think that it is truly more than enough for a child as young as 4 could comprehend.
My children and I just read through this book after downloading it and it was nicely written. I am glad that Katherine Johnson was added to the list of people for young people to learn about. Her journey and work for NASA is incredible to say the least. This book is inspiring and educational especially for young girls to see that anything is possible to achieve.
December 8, 2024
She loved math, loved learning, loved being the first to do, loved to teach, loved being a mathematician in the NASA space program! She believed in herself and worked to achieve many things, and lived to be 102!
The illustrations by Jemma Skidmore are simple, colorful, and expressive.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof on Adobe Digital Editions from Quarto Publishing Group/Frances Lincoln Children's Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Katherine Johnson @QuartoKids @CBCBook @Frances_Lincoln #LittlePeopleBIG DREAMS @sanchezvegara #Writer @TheQuartoGroup #BlackWoman #AerospaceMathematician Illus by Jemma Skidmore @goodreads @bookbub @librarythingofficial @barnesandnoble @waterstones ***** #Review @booksamillion @bookshop_org Ages 8 and up @bookshop_org_uk @childrensbookcouncil #ChildrensNonfiction #TryNewThings #STEM 6 - 8 Years
January 7, 2025
Katherine Johnson is one of the finest additions to the Little People, BIG DREAMS series.
Following Johnson's life from a small girl in segregated West Virginia, we see Johnson's extraordinary academic progress through her early years, where her family did everything they could to make sure she received the education that she deserved.
It continues into her career at NASA and her being honored the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The book doesn't shy way from the racist and sexist world in which Katherine Johnson found her success, but it does it in a way that is easily consumable for small children. It's an excellent way to spark a discussion about racism, civil rights, and sexism with small children who are discovering the world for the first time.
The illustrations are beautiful, and Katherine stands out in every image of her, from the first page to the last.
Giant thank you to he author, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, the illustrator, Jemma Skidmore, the publisher, Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Following Johnson's life from a small girl in segregated West Virginia, we see Johnson's extraordinary academic progress through her early years, where her family did everything they could to make sure she received the education that she deserved.
It continues into her career at NASA and her being honored the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The book doesn't shy way from the racist and sexist world in which Katherine Johnson found her success, but it does it in a way that is easily consumable for small children. It's an excellent way to spark a discussion about racism, civil rights, and sexism with small children who are discovering the world for the first time.
The illustrations are beautiful, and Katherine stands out in every image of her, from the first page to the last.
Giant thank you to he author, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, the illustrator, Jemma Skidmore, the publisher, Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
December 27, 2025
Book 324 of 350 ~ 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
There is nothing more formidable than the human spirit and boy, was Victor Hugo right.
I will keep reusing this line for when I read titles from this series as I am blown away by the never say die attitude of these amazing humans.
Why i love this series is because of the fact that so many faced one issue or another and decided, screw this, I am going to do my best and be the best. Nothing was ever going to get in their way of greatness.
And what an incredible lady Ms Johnson was. One of my idols.
I also absolutely love this series as i find out about the most interesting people and it is all thanks to @mariaisabelsanchezvegara
#book324of350 #amreading #littlepeopleseries #tbrpile #instareads readstagram reading bookreview bookreviewer booklover booksAreLife booksForTheWin booknerds thisbookfairyisreading bookstagram bookstagrammer bookstagramfeature bookshelf booksofinstagram bookish bookworm goodreads booklovers bookaddict theSGbookfairyReads theSGtrekkiereads bookaholic bookchallenge2025 reviews lovebooks
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
There is nothing more formidable than the human spirit and boy, was Victor Hugo right.
I will keep reusing this line for when I read titles from this series as I am blown away by the never say die attitude of these amazing humans.
Why i love this series is because of the fact that so many faced one issue or another and decided, screw this, I am going to do my best and be the best. Nothing was ever going to get in their way of greatness.
And what an incredible lady Ms Johnson was. One of my idols.
I also absolutely love this series as i find out about the most interesting people and it is all thanks to @mariaisabelsanchezvegara
#book324of350 #amreading #littlepeopleseries #tbrpile #instareads readstagram reading bookreview bookreviewer booklover booksAreLife booksForTheWin booknerds thisbookfairyisreading bookstagram bookstagrammer bookstagramfeature bookshelf booksofinstagram bookish bookworm goodreads booklovers bookaddict theSGbookfairyReads theSGtrekkiereads bookaholic bookchallenge2025 reviews lovebooks
November 11, 2024
This is such a wonderful addition to the Little People Big Dreams series! I loved reading Katherine Johnson's story - it brought to mind images from the movie Hidden Figures. The end of the book gives the powerful reminder that "when you find what you love to do, you must give it your all." I think that's a great lesson for kids who are reading this book and learning about the incredible work that Katherine did and the path that got her to NASA.
It's always fascinating to read about the intelligent and capable women who helped to accelerate the space program in the U.S. and be reminded of their incredible contributions toward making huge steps in history happen. The illustrations in this book are great and help to support the story being told on each page. This is definitely an excellent story to have as part of the collection - and a great historical figure that can inspire young people today. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book!
It's always fascinating to read about the intelligent and capable women who helped to accelerate the space program in the U.S. and be reminded of their incredible contributions toward making huge steps in history happen. The illustrations in this book are great and help to support the story being told on each page. This is definitely an excellent story to have as part of the collection - and a great historical figure that can inspire young people today. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book!
November 14, 2024
With thanks to the author, publishers Quarto Publishing Group, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The Little People, BIG DREAMS series continues by telling the story of another important person from history, who led from the front and in doing so paved the way for others to follow. In this case, that person is Katherine Johnson, a pioneer of the early NASA space programs whose abilities as a mathematician played a major role in enabling man to travel to and return safely from space, and ultimately to walk on the moon.
With the help of her supportive family, Katherine overcame poverty and racism in her early years to excel in her education and subsequent career, and become an inspiration to young girls everywhere through showing that, by believing in her abilities and staying true to herself, she was able to achieve great things.
Another fantastic book in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series!
The Little People, BIG DREAMS series continues by telling the story of another important person from history, who led from the front and in doing so paved the way for others to follow. In this case, that person is Katherine Johnson, a pioneer of the early NASA space programs whose abilities as a mathematician played a major role in enabling man to travel to and return safely from space, and ultimately to walk on the moon.
With the help of her supportive family, Katherine overcame poverty and racism in her early years to excel in her education and subsequent career, and become an inspiration to young girls everywhere through showing that, by believing in her abilities and staying true to herself, she was able to achieve great things.
Another fantastic book in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series!
November 30, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book was informative and is easily digestible for younger children as always in the little people, big dreams series of books. The illustrations were beautiful and will really help children who may be more visual learners to learn about Katherine.
Katherine Johnson is an inspiration for all girls who want to learn, particularly Black girls and this book will create pathways for conversations about race with young people.
The book doesn’t hide or ignore the fact that Katherine was barred from school due to her race and instead states it clearly that racism prevented her from education originally. This really sets the message straight for any readers who are learning about her story.
This book belongs in all libraries, particularly school libraries. It is another great edition to little people, big dreams.
This book was informative and is easily digestible for younger children as always in the little people, big dreams series of books. The illustrations were beautiful and will really help children who may be more visual learners to learn about Katherine.
Katherine Johnson is an inspiration for all girls who want to learn, particularly Black girls and this book will create pathways for conversations about race with young people.
The book doesn’t hide or ignore the fact that Katherine was barred from school due to her race and instead states it clearly that racism prevented her from education originally. This really sets the message straight for any readers who are learning about her story.
This book belongs in all libraries, particularly school libraries. It is another great edition to little people, big dreams.
December 29, 2024
Like all the books in the Little People, Big Dreams series (my favorite—can’t you tell?!), this one begins by connecting a child’s early interests to their later success. Katherine Johnson loved math—everything from hopscotch to times tables, but as a Black child in West Virginia in the early 20th century, her academic path was often restricted by racial segregation and systemic barriers.
Despite these challenges, the book illustrates—quite literally, with its painterly style—the support she received from her family, enabling her to attend schools and colleges where her genius could thrive. Katherine went on to achieve many firsts as a Black woman at NASA, breaking barriers and making history.
I haven’t yet read or seen Hidden Figures, the popular book and movie about Katherine Johnson, but this story inspires me to dive into her larger narrative. And it’s another excellent addition to the LPBD series, celebrating perseverance and achievement.
Despite these challenges, the book illustrates—quite literally, with its painterly style—the support she received from her family, enabling her to attend schools and colleges where her genius could thrive. Katherine went on to achieve many firsts as a Black woman at NASA, breaking barriers and making history.
I haven’t yet read or seen Hidden Figures, the popular book and movie about Katherine Johnson, but this story inspires me to dive into her larger narrative. And it’s another excellent addition to the LPBD series, celebrating perseverance and achievement.
November 2, 2024
I love this series! Just like all of the other books in this series that I've rated and reviewed, this book was wonderfully well-written and the illustrations were adorable while still being accurate. I can't properly articulate how educational this book is. I even learned a lot of stuff myself! So, I have no doubt that young readers will learn from this book and be inspired by Katherine Johnson's story. The creator of this series really knows how to appeal their stories to a range of young readers, which is impressive. I know that there will be or is a book in this series for every kid out there, which is really an amazing feat. The plot was cohesive and made sense, and moved in the way a biography should. Lastly, the illustrations were colorful and complemented the story amazingly well.
Bravo!
Bravo!
December 11, 2024
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I love this series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara. She does a great job distilling people's lives into messages easily digestible by young readers while making them interesting for older readers, too. I also love the breadth of who she covers in her series.
I know quite a bit about Katherine Johnson, having read a lot of books about her. I thought Maria did an excellent job with this one. She captured Katherine's story, life, and background extremely well and did a great job presenting hard themes like racism and segregation in ways that were accessible to younger readers. She also did a great job showcasing Katherine's accomplishments as a child and as an adult. One of her better ones.
Pages: 32
Reading age: 4-7 years of age.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I love this series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara. She does a great job distilling people's lives into messages easily digestible by young readers while making them interesting for older readers, too. I also love the breadth of who she covers in her series.
I know quite a bit about Katherine Johnson, having read a lot of books about her. I thought Maria did an excellent job with this one. She captured Katherine's story, life, and background extremely well and did a great job presenting hard themes like racism and segregation in ways that were accessible to younger readers. She also did a great job showcasing Katherine's accomplishments as a child and as an adult. One of her better ones.
Pages: 32
Reading age: 4-7 years of age.
August 10, 2024
"Hidden Figures" may be a touch too mature for some very young students, in which case this book will fill you in on one of the key figures of the whole story. It's a quick biography, taking the subject from the days of segregated schools to her getting a degree way ahead of schedule, to joining what became NASA and getting Armstrong et al where they went. If you have a calling, such as her affinity with numbers, then you need to give it your all, is the message. While it's odd that the text makes so much of the racism yet the visuals have her the whitest black person on the page by a mile, this also looks the part, and this is a welcome addition to the sagging shelves beneath this mammoth series.
April 3, 2025
Learn about the incredible story of Katherine Johnson! The trailblazer whose calculations changed the fu-
ture of space exploration.
Alongside other talented African American women, Katherine's mathematical skills were essential to the early successes of the space pro-gramme. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission which landed the first people on the moon! Katherine's tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us.
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts.
It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
ture of space exploration.
Alongside other talented African American women, Katherine's mathematical skills were essential to the early successes of the space pro-gramme. She was part of the team that planned the Apollo 11 mission which landed the first people on the moon! Katherine's tenacity and expertise led to the dawn of a new era for humankind, making her an inspiration to all of us.
This powerful book is the perfect gift for STEM and space enthusiasts.
It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Katherine's life.
November 20, 2024
Thank you, Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books and NetGalley, for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Katherine Johnson is a short yet impactful book not only for children but for people of all ages. In a simple matter, it shows how her life changed the lives of others when it comes to mathematics and astrophysics. She was one of the first women of color who had an impact on the first landing on the moon with Apollo 11. It uplifts and encourages kids by showing them how dedication and hard work can have positive benefits, make their dreams come true, and give them a positive and relatable role model to look up to.
Katherine Johnson is a short yet impactful book not only for children but for people of all ages. In a simple matter, it shows how her life changed the lives of others when it comes to mathematics and astrophysics. She was one of the first women of color who had an impact on the first landing on the moon with Apollo 11. It uplifts and encourages kids by showing them how dedication and hard work can have positive benefits, make their dreams come true, and give them a positive and relatable role model to look up to.
December 2, 2024
Another fantastic book in the series!
My four-year-old and ten-year-old both love the Little People, Big Dreams series. This latest book focuses on the life of mathematician Katherine Johnson. I love how these books present complex topics in a very approachable fashion for children of any age. This book sparked a conversation on racism with my eldest, while my youngest was very taken with the beautiful illustrations.
A recommended read for fans of Hidden Figures and fun educational reads for children.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quarto Books for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
My four-year-old and ten-year-old both love the Little People, Big Dreams series. This latest book focuses on the life of mathematician Katherine Johnson. I love how these books present complex topics in a very approachable fashion for children of any age. This book sparked a conversation on racism with my eldest, while my youngest was very taken with the beautiful illustrations.
A recommended read for fans of Hidden Figures and fun educational reads for children.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quarto Books for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
December 8, 2024
I am always on the hunt for fun and informative nonfiction books for my classroom. Thank you to @netgalley and @quartopublishing for the arc. I cannot wait to get the physical copy for my classroom. I really enjoyed reading this biography, it was easy to follow and understand. As well as being informative, the illustrations make it easier for children to engage with and understand the facts being presented within the text. At the end of the book there is a timeline of what the book covered with pictures of Katherine. Overall the biography was really well done and I cannot wait to read more in the series.
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