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Little People, BIG DREAMS
Dolly Parton (Volume 28)
In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Dolly Parton, the singer-songwriter and businesswoman.
Little Dolly grew up in Tennessee in a family "as poor as dirt." She started performing at an early age, singing on local radio and television. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville to pursue her singing dreams. Her managers wanted her to sing pop, but she followed her heart to sing and write country songs. Her heart was right—Dolly became a musical superstar, but she never forgot where she came from. She now uses her wealth to give back to people, children, and animals in need. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the singer's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
Little Dolly grew up in Tennessee in a family "as poor as dirt." She started performing at an early age, singing on local radio and television. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville to pursue her singing dreams. Her managers wanted her to sing pop, but she followed her heart to sing and write country songs. Her heart was right—Dolly became a musical superstar, but she never forgot where she came from. She now uses her wealth to give back to people, children, and animals in need. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the singer's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
32 pages, Hardcover
First published June 4, 2019
9 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara
186 books445 followersMaria Isabel Sánchez Vegara, born in Barcelona, Spain, is a writer and creative director perhaps best known as the author of much of the Little People, Big Dreams series. Each book tells the childhood story of one of the world's female icons in an entertaining, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers, allowing them to identify with the characters in each story.
You may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
You may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
July 3, 2019
Another great addition to the Little people, Big Dreams series, simple, yet informative and fun.
I didn't know much about Dolly Parton's life and career, so I was delighted to pick up this book and learn about this talented singer. I learnt about her origins, the beginnings of her career, moving to Nashville , singing with Porter Wagoner and later going solo. I also enjoyed reading about her Imagination library for children in need. I think it is important to give children concrete examples of how celebrities and successful people can give back to society and help those less fortunate around them.
Thank you to NetGaleey and Frances Lincoln Children's Books (Quarto Publishing Group) for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
I didn't know much about Dolly Parton's life and career, so I was delighted to pick up this book and learn about this talented singer. I learnt about her origins, the beginnings of her career, moving to Nashville , singing with Porter Wagoner and later going solo. I also enjoyed reading about her Imagination library for children in need. I think it is important to give children concrete examples of how celebrities and successful people can give back to society and help those less fortunate around them.
Thank you to NetGaleey and Frances Lincoln Children's Books (Quarto Publishing Group) for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
June 25, 2019
2.5 stars. This was an basic overview of Dolly Parton's life. The illustrations used the effect of looking like a child had drawn them although I would have preferred it if a child actually had. All the faces look the same and the bright red disks for cheeks is offputting. At the start of the book it says that Dolly didn't have much although she is surrounded by her large family all dressed in fancy clothes and shoes, she is riding a horse, owns a guitar and has a large property. I understand peoples lives were different there and then but still, a child who actually didn't have much would find this statement odd and probably quite annoying. On one page Dolly is playing guitar on the porch and a horse, a huge white rabbit, a tortoise, a cow and a bear are all sitting listening. This seems an odd choice in a factual book. There is also a butterfly on every page but it doesn't explain if there is a reason for this.
It was interesting to read about Dolly's work sending books out to children who didn't have access to books.
It was interesting to read about Dolly's work sending books out to children who didn't have access to books.
June 27, 2019
Considering that when I was in high school, most talk of and about Dolly Parton usually tended to centre not so much on her musical talents and her career but more on her cleavage and her many cosmetic surgery procedures (especially with regard to her breast size), I am indeed rather majorly happy that Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara has chosen in Dolly Parton (one of the more recent instalments in the Little People, Big Dreams series) to generally ignore this and to for the most part concentrate on Dolly Parton's music career and her important charity work (except to very briefly mention that Dolly Parton loves to wear elaborate wigs and quite a bit of make-up). And indeed, text-wise, I would definitely consider Dolly Parton with probably a standard four star ranking (with the only minor shortcoming for me being that I honestly do think that Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara should be mentioning that Dolly Parton and her husband Carl Dean have been married for more than fifty years now, and this especially considering how often marriages end in divorce particularly in the entertainment industry).
However, as much as I have both appreciated and enjoyed Dolly Parton from a narrational and textual point of view, I cannot really claim that I have in ANY MANNER found Daria Solak's accompanying illustrations aesthetically pleasant and even all that realistic (according to Dolly Parton's life story). For one (and very much importantly in my opinion), Dolly Parton is known to have come from very humble and actually as she herself usually points out "dirt-poor" stock. And therefore, it really feels visually awkward to say the least for Dolly Parton as a young girl to be depicted by Daria Solak as owning/riding a horse and living in a simple but rather large and well maintained ranch style type of home (for even if young Dolly Parton does not look like she is oozing wealth, it still appears as though her family and her are pretty well off materially which simply is not the truth, which simply was not the truth during Dolly Parton's childhood). And for two, I am sorry, but those red cheek patches that EVERYONE depicted in Dolly Parton seems to have, they appear fake, they look artificial, they look as though someone simply just painted a bunch of annoying red clown nose type marks on everyone's faces, making the accompanying pictures to and for my eyes look rather trashy and also making Dolly Parton (and actually every single human being depicted and drawn by Daria Solak n Dolly Parton) seem and visually represent themselves as rather cheap and artificial. Therefore, four stars for Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara's narrative, for her simple but delightful, effective verbal portrait of Dolly Parton's life and music career but only one star for Daria Solak's rather annoying accompanying pictures for an average of a low three star ranking for Dolly Parton (and once again yet another promising storyline in the Little People, Big Dreams series that has been totally shafted and thwarted by problematic, strange and unnatural, unsuitable looking artwork).
However, as much as I have both appreciated and enjoyed Dolly Parton from a narrational and textual point of view, I cannot really claim that I have in ANY MANNER found Daria Solak's accompanying illustrations aesthetically pleasant and even all that realistic (according to Dolly Parton's life story). For one (and very much importantly in my opinion), Dolly Parton is known to have come from very humble and actually as she herself usually points out "dirt-poor" stock. And therefore, it really feels visually awkward to say the least for Dolly Parton as a young girl to be depicted by Daria Solak as owning/riding a horse and living in a simple but rather large and well maintained ranch style type of home (for even if young Dolly Parton does not look like she is oozing wealth, it still appears as though her family and her are pretty well off materially which simply is not the truth, which simply was not the truth during Dolly Parton's childhood). And for two, I am sorry, but those red cheek patches that EVERYONE depicted in Dolly Parton seems to have, they appear fake, they look artificial, they look as though someone simply just painted a bunch of annoying red clown nose type marks on everyone's faces, making the accompanying pictures to and for my eyes look rather trashy and also making Dolly Parton (and actually every single human being depicted and drawn by Daria Solak n Dolly Parton) seem and visually represent themselves as rather cheap and artificial. Therefore, four stars for Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara's narrative, for her simple but delightful, effective verbal portrait of Dolly Parton's life and music career but only one star for Daria Solak's rather annoying accompanying pictures for an average of a low three star ranking for Dolly Parton (and once again yet another promising storyline in the Little People, Big Dreams series that has been totally shafted and thwarted by problematic, strange and unnatural, unsuitable looking artwork).
May 22, 2020
Another book in this super sweet series! I honestly can't get enough of them! And of course I would pick up a book about the living legend, Dolly Parton!
Yet again, I learned some new things! I love Dolly Parton and have followed her for years, but didn't know that much about her past. It was great to be able to learn something from a picture book - if I had books like this back in the day, I would have loved non-fiction more (I tended to go for fiction as a youngster).
The art style is very childish, which is probably the only negative I can say about this series. Sometimes the style works well, and other times it doesn't. For someone like Dolly, I almost expect something more elegant or wild, not just cartoon-y, but that's just me!
Overall, this is a great book and a great series! If you want a non-fiction, picture book that is easy to read and teaches about some historical figures, grab this book!
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Group for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Yet again, I learned some new things! I love Dolly Parton and have followed her for years, but didn't know that much about her past. It was great to be able to learn something from a picture book - if I had books like this back in the day, I would have loved non-fiction more (I tended to go for fiction as a youngster).
The art style is very childish, which is probably the only negative I can say about this series. Sometimes the style works well, and other times it doesn't. For someone like Dolly, I almost expect something more elegant or wild, not just cartoon-y, but that's just me!
Overall, this is a great book and a great series! If you want a non-fiction, picture book that is easy to read and teaches about some historical figures, grab this book!
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Group for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
June 30, 2019
I love me some Dolly Parton and this is a great way to get tiny humans interested in her life and music!
Thank you NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for my DRC.
Thank you NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for my DRC.
February 28, 2022
This series caught my eye a while back and I was reminded of it today, so I went in search to see if Scribd had any on their list. The only one they had was Dolly Parton, which I was not disappointed with.
I love Dolly Parton. I love her voice, I love her persona (she's so beautifully flamboyant and unapologetic), I love her charitable sense and she has done so much good in her life.
This book is for very young readers, perhaps up to age 6 for those that can read. The illustrations are simple, colorful and purposely unrefined. There is no great detail to the retelling of her life starting in early childhood. I wish there had been a bit more, but I suppose that would've made it too long.
I would like to read other books in the series, like Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Stephen Hawking, Jane Goodall, Amelia Earhart, David Bowie and many many more. I just discovered that my local library has several of them available through Libby.
3.5 stars rounded up.
I love Dolly Parton. I love her voice, I love her persona (she's so beautifully flamboyant and unapologetic), I love her charitable sense and she has done so much good in her life.
This book is for very young readers, perhaps up to age 6 for those that can read. The illustrations are simple, colorful and purposely unrefined. There is no great detail to the retelling of her life starting in early childhood. I wish there had been a bit more, but I suppose that would've made it too long.
I would like to read other books in the series, like Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Stephen Hawking, Jane Goodall, Amelia Earhart, David Bowie and many many more. I just discovered that my local library has several of them available through Libby.
3.5 stars rounded up.
June 1, 2019
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This series is always a joy to read, it’s a really nice introduction to well known people for little children. Of course the plot is always a little bit fast but that’s to be expected and it’s totally understandable.
Dolly Parton is such a big party of country music and I was very glad to have the chance to learn more about this singer. For example I didn't know about her starting a library project for children or about the theme park. I think this is another great example of someone who followed her dreams and made it, while also doing a lot of good for others.
This series is always a joy to read, it’s a really nice introduction to well known people for little children. Of course the plot is always a little bit fast but that’s to be expected and it’s totally understandable.
Dolly Parton is such a big party of country music and I was very glad to have the chance to learn more about this singer. For example I didn't know about her starting a library project for children or about the theme park. I think this is another great example of someone who followed her dreams and made it, while also doing a lot of good for others.
June 11, 2019
Love, love, love the Little People, BIG DREAMS series and in this just published bio for kids, Dolly comes fully to life in the colorful illustrations and text. 5/5
Pub Date 04 Jun 2019.
Thanks to the author, Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens Books, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#DollyParton #NetGalley
Pub Date 04 Jun 2019.
Thanks to the author, Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens Books, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#DollyParton #NetGalley
June 7, 2019
Ah, yes, another inspirational book in the Little People, Big Dreams series, this time about country music star Dolly Parton. It touches on the major points of her life, includes empowering quotes and lyrics, and the ways in which she has given back to society. I feel strongly that children should learn about the importance of having dreams and striving to achieve in life and that is the message the book gives out. Adults will enjoy reading this alongside youngsters and learning together makes it all the more fun. What Sanchez Vegara has done is match the optimum amount of text for young readers with the quirky illustrations; you can tell everything has been thought through and that makes this a pleasure to read. Whether you appreciate the drawings or not is dependent on personal preference.
The easy to follow, accessible information throughout is simple to understand. I particularly liked that it promoted the idea of never forgetting where you came from — your roots and family — no matter how successful and wealthy you become. Dolly, knowing the importance of reading and education, started an incredible project known as the Imagination Library, a book gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth until they begin school, no matter their family’s income; I had no idea this existed but what a beautiful and thoughtful idea. This is the perfect introduction to the world of Dolly Parton and comes highly recommended. Many thanks to Quarto Publishing Group — Frances Lincoln Children's Books for an ARC.
The easy to follow, accessible information throughout is simple to understand. I particularly liked that it promoted the idea of never forgetting where you came from — your roots and family — no matter how successful and wealthy you become. Dolly, knowing the importance of reading and education, started an incredible project known as the Imagination Library, a book gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth until they begin school, no matter their family’s income; I had no idea this existed but what a beautiful and thoughtful idea. This is the perfect introduction to the world of Dolly Parton and comes highly recommended. Many thanks to Quarto Publishing Group — Frances Lincoln Children's Books for an ARC.
June 4, 2019
The Little People, Big Dreams series has become a favorite over the last year; I've enjoyed reading each title with my five-year-old daughter!
The spotlight in the latest release is on country music legend Dolly Parton. Young readers are given bold and bright illustrations with simple sentences to briefly share the highlights of Dolly's life, from her musical aspirations during childhood in a big family in the Smokies to her dreams coming true in Nashville; first with Porter Wagoner and then as a solo artist. After becoming a wildly successful country artist, Dolly set out on more adventures as a crossover musician and as a savvy businesswoman. She even started a special library for children across the U.S. and now several other countries also participate! (Please check out Dolly Parton's Imagination Library - it is a phenomenal program.)
Another fantastic book in the series and a great introduction to Dolly Parton whose music and kindness are both legendary!
Thanks to Frances Lincoln Children's Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Little People, Big Dreams: Dolly Parton is now available at your favorite bookstore or library.
The spotlight in the latest release is on country music legend Dolly Parton. Young readers are given bold and bright illustrations with simple sentences to briefly share the highlights of Dolly's life, from her musical aspirations during childhood in a big family in the Smokies to her dreams coming true in Nashville; first with Porter Wagoner and then as a solo artist. After becoming a wildly successful country artist, Dolly set out on more adventures as a crossover musician and as a savvy businesswoman. She even started a special library for children across the U.S. and now several other countries also participate! (Please check out Dolly Parton's Imagination Library - it is a phenomenal program.)
Another fantastic book in the series and a great introduction to Dolly Parton whose music and kindness are both legendary!
Thanks to Frances Lincoln Children's Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Little People, Big Dreams: Dolly Parton is now available at your favorite bookstore or library.
October 16, 2020
Such a wonderful series and Dolly well deserves her place among these formidable and successful women.
The stories are simple and give the basic facts that propel someone to success. Dolly came from a big family and never forgot her upbringing and core values.
Her musicianship was unparalleled and as a woman she had courage and business sense to go solo and forge herself a unique place in the hearts of country and musical fans.
In addition she has given so much back to the world beyond her singalong lyrics and catchy tunes.
This book gets you wanting more and rushing for more deeply researched biographies and Dolly’s own spin on her life.
A legend and a talent we should all appreciate.
Another little book about a big character.
This is a story that will make your heart sing.
The series shows that we share another person's dreams. We learn that an individual like Dolly Patron required more to succeed, a unique, quite an original talent and grim motivation.
A joy to read and share her voice as she makes music about the world; then to reclaim it for children through her theme park and for women in her work and relentless drive.
The simple factual text is enhanced by vibrant, colourful illustrations.
A time lime acts as a reference at the end of the book, with real photos and a reference place to begin a more expansive research.
The stories are simple and give the basic facts that propel someone to success. Dolly came from a big family and never forgot her upbringing and core values.
Her musicianship was unparalleled and as a woman she had courage and business sense to go solo and forge herself a unique place in the hearts of country and musical fans.
In addition she has given so much back to the world beyond her singalong lyrics and catchy tunes.
This book gets you wanting more and rushing for more deeply researched biographies and Dolly’s own spin on her life.
A legend and a talent we should all appreciate.
Another little book about a big character.
This is a story that will make your heart sing.
The series shows that we share another person's dreams. We learn that an individual like Dolly Patron required more to succeed, a unique, quite an original talent and grim motivation.
A joy to read and share her voice as she makes music about the world; then to reclaim it for children through her theme park and for women in her work and relentless drive.
The simple factual text is enhanced by vibrant, colourful illustrations.
A time lime acts as a reference at the end of the book, with real photos and a reference place to begin a more expansive research.
April 14, 2020
A new addition to the brilliant (and critically-acclaimed) series,
Little People, Big Dreams
.
A few of the books in this series really stand out for me: I love Rosa Parks, Frida Kahlo and Anne Frank, for example, and very much enjoyed the David Bowie version. Also a musical icon, Dolly Parton and her story are fascinating to me.
Growing up near the Great Smokey Mountain in East Tennessee, Dolly was destined for stardom. She came from a poor family with eleven brothers and sisters but her life was rich in love and musical influence. Soon after graduating high school, Dolly moved to Nashville and began her life in music. What I love about this book is that it also pinpoints Dolly's success in business and her kind heart, paying tribute to her Imagination Library initiative to give books to children in need across the world. This book covers Dolly's fifty year career but is still presented in a way that is very appealing to children and young people.
The illustrations are adorable and I love the story; one of my new favourites!
A few of the books in this series really stand out for me: I love Rosa Parks, Frida Kahlo and Anne Frank, for example, and very much enjoyed the David Bowie version. Also a musical icon, Dolly Parton and her story are fascinating to me.
Growing up near the Great Smokey Mountain in East Tennessee, Dolly was destined for stardom. She came from a poor family with eleven brothers and sisters but her life was rich in love and musical influence. Soon after graduating high school, Dolly moved to Nashville and began her life in music. What I love about this book is that it also pinpoints Dolly's success in business and her kind heart, paying tribute to her Imagination Library initiative to give books to children in need across the world. This book covers Dolly's fifty year career but is still presented in a way that is very appealing to children and young people.
The illustrations are adorable and I love the story; one of my new favourites!
May 31, 2019
At this point, I think if one of these books had amazing illustrations, it would look totally out of place in the series!
That aside, I quite enjoyed this biographical picture book about Dolly Parton. It talks about her career, starting as a child, and her move to Nashville, her solo career, and her business endeavours. I hadn't heard of the Imagination Library, so I was pleased to learn that little factoid in reading the book.
The illustrations are probably the weakest part of this one. They're very rough, streaky, and not all that engaging. The red spots on everyone's cheeks remind me of pepperoni slices! There's a little butterfly that appears on every page, and I assume it has some significance, but nothing is mentioned in the text.
This isn't the best book in the series that I've read so far, but it's one of the better ones, despite the lacklustre illustrations.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.
That aside, I quite enjoyed this biographical picture book about Dolly Parton. It talks about her career, starting as a child, and her move to Nashville, her solo career, and her business endeavours. I hadn't heard of the Imagination Library, so I was pleased to learn that little factoid in reading the book.
The illustrations are probably the weakest part of this one. They're very rough, streaky, and not all that engaging. The red spots on everyone's cheeks remind me of pepperoni slices! There's a little butterfly that appears on every page, and I assume it has some significance, but nothing is mentioned in the text.
This isn't the best book in the series that I've read so far, but it's one of the better ones, despite the lacklustre illustrations.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.
June 12, 2019
These books will never not be cute af. Delightful art, as always.
June 3, 2019
This is such a cool series. I love how each one has little factoids about the people being written about.
This one, on Dolly Parton has info I was unaware of, such as how she had a radio show before she went to Nashville.
As always, these are excellent ways to introduce kids to famous people, as a stepping stone. And it is also cool that at the end of each picture book, it has a more detailed timeline with information about the person in each book.
Thanks to Netgallekyk for making this book available for an honest review.
This one, on Dolly Parton has info I was unaware of, such as how she had a radio show before she went to Nashville.
As always, these are excellent ways to introduce kids to famous people, as a stepping stone. And it is also cool that at the end of each picture book, it has a more detailed timeline with information about the person in each book.
Thanks to Netgallekyk for making this book available for an honest review.
July 6, 2019
I just wish this series had been around when I was teaching. These beginning biographies of famous people have just enough information not to overwhelm young people, yet give a basic overview of their lives. This wonderful addition to the series features country music star, Dolly Parton. It touches on the major points of her life, how her dreams and the support of her family helped her launch her career, and adds what she did to give back. It also shows that making it big does not mean you should forget where you came from. I also like that it emphasized how she did not let people's opinions change what she enjoyed, such as wearing her wigs and makeup. Children are very important to Dolly Parton, so I think this book is an especially good fit for this series about following your dreams. One thing I did not know about Dolly, was that she started the Imagination Library, where children receive books in the mail from the time they are born until they begin school. Another way she shows how important children are as well as reading and education. These books have just a few sentences of text per page, complemented by quirky illustrations that will attract children to these books. I normally enjoy the illustrations, but I am a big Dolly Parton fan and this time, they did not appeal to me as much, but that is my personal preference. I can't praise this series enough. If you have the opportunity, check out this book, better yet, check out the series and recommend it to your local library or school library or buy them for the children in your life. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
July 8, 2019
I love this series and have read most of them. I've found way more hits than flops - but unfortunately this was one of the flops.
I was really looking forward to it as I'm a Dolly fan (I mean, who isn't - she's an angel on earth), and as I just read a biography of her that mentioned her boobs on every other page, I wanted to read something less pervy. I do like the focus on all she's achieved, and particularly her Imagination Library. But I think these books - and all books - work best when we see people's struggles rather than just their success. The most inspiring success is one that's hard-won, and I think kids in particular need to see that many different hardships can be overcome. There would have been plenty of opportunity to show Dolly's struggles on her way to success, but the way it's written it's as if everything just magically happened.
I also didn't find the artwork appealing at all, though I haven't run it by any kids yet so maybe they'll like it more. There are some lovely and inspiring books in this series, but I'd advise skipping this one.
I was really looking forward to it as I'm a Dolly fan (I mean, who isn't - she's an angel on earth), and as I just read a biography of her that mentioned her boobs on every other page, I wanted to read something less pervy. I do like the focus on all she's achieved, and particularly her Imagination Library. But I think these books - and all books - work best when we see people's struggles rather than just their success. The most inspiring success is one that's hard-won, and I think kids in particular need to see that many different hardships can be overcome. There would have been plenty of opportunity to show Dolly's struggles on her way to success, but the way it's written it's as if everything just magically happened.
I also didn't find the artwork appealing at all, though I haven't run it by any kids yet so maybe they'll like it more. There are some lovely and inspiring books in this series, but I'd advise skipping this one.
June 24, 2019
I love the books in this series and I couldn’t wait to read this one on the fabulous Dolly Parton!
I love that these books give an insight in to the back stories of some of the most influential people in the world. The Little People, Big Dreams series is one I always look out for.
I love Dolly and think that she is an incredible lady, I did know most of the things mentioned about her in the book, but for me it didn’t really show her full personality which is what makes Dolly Parton so remarkable and special.
I felt it was a little lacking compared to some of the others in the series and I didn’t think that the images really did Dolly justice, but it is still four stars from me for this one, I loved that is shared about her charity work and her “as poor as dirt” story; even with my slight niggles, I really enjoyed it, highly recommended!
I love that these books give an insight in to the back stories of some of the most influential people in the world. The Little People, Big Dreams series is one I always look out for.
I love Dolly and think that she is an incredible lady, I did know most of the things mentioned about her in the book, but for me it didn’t really show her full personality which is what makes Dolly Parton so remarkable and special.
I felt it was a little lacking compared to some of the others in the series and I didn’t think that the images really did Dolly justice, but it is still four stars from me for this one, I loved that is shared about her charity work and her “as poor as dirt” story; even with my slight niggles, I really enjoyed it, highly recommended!
January 12, 2023
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
I just love Dolly Parton, sorry to say not because of her music (I am not a fan of country/country-ish music), but because I love her energy, how she always looks fabulous, and of course all her charity work (like gifting books to children). So I had to try out this book and see if I could learn more about this amazing woman.
I loved reading about Dolly’s life, I didn’t know she had so many siblings and that she started so young. I had a bit of a giggle that she found love instantly after moving to a new town, fate works in mysterious ways. I loved seeing how everything got set into motion for her to become who she is today. From singing and awards to charity and business. She is an amazing woman, and I knew that.
I do have to say that, just like with a couple of other books in this series, it feels a bit jarring how the ages just fly by. One moment she is a child the next she is an adult. I get that you cannot cram everything in a picture book, but a bit more of a smooth transition would have been nice.
Like with the other books we get a timeline at the end and I was glad with that as it gave just a bit more information on some events.
I wonder why there is a butterfly (I am guessing it is that) on most (I didn’t feel like going back again) pages. Is that because of her one song? Or is there some other meaning to it?
The art was a bit a miss to me. I did like the style, but the perspectives just felt off. At times it felt like it should have perspective but in the same time the image was also flat. Hopefully that makes sense. I am sure I can explain it better in Dutch. 😛
But I definitely had fun reading this one and I learned some new things about Dolly! I would recommend this one.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I just love Dolly Parton, sorry to say not because of her music (I am not a fan of country/country-ish music), but because I love her energy, how she always looks fabulous, and of course all her charity work (like gifting books to children). So I had to try out this book and see if I could learn more about this amazing woman.
I loved reading about Dolly’s life, I didn’t know she had so many siblings and that she started so young. I had a bit of a giggle that she found love instantly after moving to a new town, fate works in mysterious ways. I loved seeing how everything got set into motion for her to become who she is today. From singing and awards to charity and business. She is an amazing woman, and I knew that.
I do have to say that, just like with a couple of other books in this series, it feels a bit jarring how the ages just fly by. One moment she is a child the next she is an adult. I get that you cannot cram everything in a picture book, but a bit more of a smooth transition would have been nice.
Like with the other books we get a timeline at the end and I was glad with that as it gave just a bit more information on some events.
I wonder why there is a butterfly (I am guessing it is that) on most (I didn’t feel like going back again) pages. Is that because of her one song? Or is there some other meaning to it?
The art was a bit a miss to me. I did like the style, but the perspectives just felt off. At times it felt like it should have perspective but in the same time the image was also flat. Hopefully that makes sense. I am sure I can explain it better in Dutch. 😛
But I definitely had fun reading this one and I learned some new things about Dolly! I would recommend this one.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
April 19, 2020
I received an advanced reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
This book is such a beautiful tribute to the beautiful Dolly Parton. This short but interesting childrens book encourages children to pursue their hopes and dreams.
I love this series and hope one day to have a full set to share with the children I teach at school.
This book is such a beautiful tribute to the beautiful Dolly Parton. This short but interesting childrens book encourages children to pursue their hopes and dreams.
I love this series and hope one day to have a full set to share with the children I teach at school.
May 27, 2020
This is a really nice biography of Dolly Parton for kids. A lot of people don't know how truly amazing Dolly is. She is obviously a successful singer/songwriter and actress. She's also an accomplished businesswoman and philanthropist. Her theme park, Dollywood, gets over 3 million guests a year and employs many in her native Pigeon Forge, TN. Her Imagination Library has gifted over 137 million free books to kids in the US and around the world. And that's just a few things she's done.
It's amazing that she accomplished a lot of her success in the 60s and 70s when it was hard for women to succeed in country music. She then just built on it year after year, becoming a successful businesswoman and using her fame and influence to help others. It's great that a kids' book was written about Dolly so children know about this incredible woman with a beautiful voice who gives so much to others.
I received a free copy of this book from Quarto Group, Frances Lincoln Children's Books, and the authors via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
It's amazing that she accomplished a lot of her success in the 60s and 70s when it was hard for women to succeed in country music. She then just built on it year after year, becoming a successful businesswoman and using her fame and influence to help others. It's great that a kids' book was written about Dolly so children know about this incredible woman with a beautiful voice who gives so much to others.
I received a free copy of this book from Quarto Group, Frances Lincoln Children's Books, and the authors via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
July 20, 2019
This was a good read but it was really sparse and it doesn't really talk about all Dolly has done. This felt thin and weak in comparison to the other books in this series. I loved the artwork and considered that the strong point of this book.
September 7, 2024
Tellement, tellement heureuse d��ajouter ce livre à notre belle, grande collection !
Dolly Parton, wow !
Mais quelle femme inspirante !
Découvrir la vie de cette icône de la musique country avec ma fille a été un réel plaisir.
Nous avons bien aimé découvrir son parcours. C’est une femme engagée avec une carrière impressionnante.
On a eu un gros faible pour son organisme qui envoi des livres gratuits aux enfants.
Après notre lecture, on s’est gâté en écoutant quelques-unes de ses chansons.
Sérieux, la collection De petit.e à grand.e est fantastique ! Un must dans une bibliothèque de classe. 📚
Dolly Parton, wow !
Mais quelle femme inspirante !
Découvrir la vie de cette icône de la musique country avec ma fille a été un réel plaisir.
Nous avons bien aimé découvrir son parcours. C’est une femme engagée avec une carrière impressionnante.
On a eu un gros faible pour son organisme qui envoi des livres gratuits aux enfants.
Après notre lecture, on s’est gâté en écoutant quelques-unes de ses chansons.
Sérieux, la collection De petit.e à grand.e est fantastique ! Un must dans une bibliothèque de classe. 📚
January 5, 2025
Love Dolly and adored this cute book. The illustrations are adorable and it tells her story in a way that small children will find engaging and interesting.
July 6, 2020
Falls a bit flat given the subject, especially the illustration. But I still love this little book series and look forward to more.
April 18, 2020
Dolly Parton is another great addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series. She is such a great role model. Dolly set up the Imagination Library for children in need and is a successful business woman and country/pop music singer. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my digital copy.
June 7, 2019
Isabel Sanchez Vegara does it again, and this time with the support of illustrator, Daria Solak. One of the best series to come out of KidLit in the last few years is ‘Little People, BIG DREAMS.’ While most nonfiction books for children typically pick well know historical figures as their subjects, LPBD highlights Women, People of Color, Scientists, and Artists.
The newest title, and my very favorite so far, lets us discover and adore Dolly Parton. Even I, a long-time fan, learned a few things about her while reading, such as, her regular slot on a local radio station at the age of 10 or that her husband’s name is Carl. (How did I not already know that?)
This book truly shows its readers what an unstoppable force Dolly is. Her kindness shines through in everything she does, whether it’s the work she does for her own community, or providing books for children all over the world, or showing us all how to be happy with yourself, just as you are.
Dolly Parton is a true role model. So THANK YOU Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Daria Solak, & Frances Lincoln for telling the children her story.
Thank You to Quarto Publishing Group/Frances Lincoln Children's Books & NetGalley for the digital copy of this book to review.
The newest title, and my very favorite so far, lets us discover and adore Dolly Parton. Even I, a long-time fan, learned a few things about her while reading, such as, her regular slot on a local radio station at the age of 10 or that her husband’s name is Carl. (How did I not already know that?)
This book truly shows its readers what an unstoppable force Dolly is. Her kindness shines through in everything she does, whether it’s the work she does for her own community, or providing books for children all over the world, or showing us all how to be happy with yourself, just as you are.
Dolly Parton is a true role model. So THANK YOU Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Daria Solak, & Frances Lincoln for telling the children her story.
Thank You to Quarto Publishing Group/Frances Lincoln Children's Books & NetGalley for the digital copy of this book to review.
July 12, 2019
One might wonder why Dolly Parton is part of this series of biographies for children. Why should kids know this 70+ country singer (and part-time actress, and business women)? Well, because although I personally know only two songs by her (actually it is 3 now - I just read that "Jolene" is originally by her as well), she released more than 80 albums throughout her career and holds several records in the music industry.
But most of all, because she initiated a library project for underpriviliged children so that they have the opportunity to get their little hands on books. For this alone she probably has earned her right to be included in this series.
Well-done concise biography with cute illustrations. The text could have been a bit more (it's only 1-2 sentences per double page). Nevertheless, the message for the children comes across very well here: hold on to your dreams, even if you are poor, or if people not always like how you look and dress up. Sometimes they do come true!
But most of all, because she initiated a library project for underpriviliged children so that they have the opportunity to get their little hands on books. For this alone she probably has earned her right to be included in this series.
Well-done concise biography with cute illustrations. The text could have been a bit more (it's only 1-2 sentences per double page). Nevertheless, the message for the children comes across very well here: hold on to your dreams, even if you are poor, or if people not always like how you look and dress up. Sometimes they do come true!
April 23, 2020
I was provided with a digital ARC of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishing house, The Quarto Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens, in exchange for an honest review.
I love this series of books for little children, I really really do. They're the cutest ever and they bring a lot of sunshine to these difficult days.
I was so happy to see there was a Dolly Parton one. I honestly think not enough people recognize the talent and the impact Dolly had in the American (and not only) culture. I'm not American, but even I know about how an icon she was and she still is.
I loved to learn more about her life, about her ambition and how she never stopped dreaming. How she was ahead of her times, and a sweet and strong woman at the same time. I really look up to her as an icon.
Tha illustrations in these little books are always amazing and cute, and I can't wait to read more books in this cute series. I highly highly recommend it. For children, but not only.
I love this series of books for little children, I really really do. They're the cutest ever and they bring a lot of sunshine to these difficult days.
I was so happy to see there was a Dolly Parton one. I honestly think not enough people recognize the talent and the impact Dolly had in the American (and not only) culture. I'm not American, but even I know about how an icon she was and she still is.
I loved to learn more about her life, about her ambition and how she never stopped dreaming. How she was ahead of her times, and a sweet and strong woman at the same time. I really look up to her as an icon.
Tha illustrations in these little books are always amazing and cute, and I can't wait to read more books in this cute series. I highly highly recommend it. For children, but not only.
June 6, 2019
A primer to all that is Dolly Parton, from her recording and private lives up to her entrepreneurial skills and outfits. This would certainly go down in America, where the lady is clearly more of a role model than, say, here in Britain. Here we consider her a success, but see one or two (well, let's be blunt – definitely two) things that kind of prevent us taking her seriously. As a result, and as a result of this book's brevity, it kind of reads like a hagiography; "unsurprisingly, she went on to become a superstar" – well, of course she did. I can't say I took to the artwork, either, which uses the colouring-in-with-felt-pen style as a virtue. But this series as a whole is fine, and shows that success can come about in any way, shape or fashion, from any source. This individual book didn't quite sell the virtues of its topic to me in a convincing fashion.
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