Jesse Owens

Little People, BIG DREAMS

by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara, Anna Katharina Jansen (Illustrations)

In this book from the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Jesse Owens, the great track and field star.

Little Jesse, originally J.C., was born in Oakville, Alabama, during segregation. When he was nine, he moved with his parents and nine brothers and sisters to Cleveland, Ohio, to find a better life. There, he found his passion for running, and was making national headlines by high school, where he equaled the world record in the 100-yard dash. It was during the 1936 Berlin Summer Olympics that he established himself as a legend, winning four gold metals that also delivered an unforgettable blow to Hitler and racism. 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 athlete'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!

Genres: Biography, Picture Books, Nonfiction, Sports, Childrens, History, African American

32 pages, Hardcover

First published June 2, 2020

About the author

Maria 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...

Reviews

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

This series is always a joy to read, it’s a really nice introduction to well known people for little children. Of course the plot is always a little bit fast but that’s to be expected and it’s totally understandable.
This volume is about Jesse Owens, an athlete who had to face segregation and racism. I've always admired him for his achievements and it's sad to see that his own country recognized him as he deserved only later in life when segregation was finally over. His achievements in the 1936 Olympics sure made history and I'm very glad children can read his story.

[Liliana Silva · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't know Jesse Owens, but I liked the book. it shows us a man who fought against everything and everyone to achieve his dreams. Another good message that the book conveys.

[Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was not my favorite entry in the series, but that was mostly due to the formatting choices of text colors that made portions difficult to read. It did a good job telling the story of Jesse Owens and giving an introduction to the extremely difficult subjects of racism, segregation, and Nazis.

This unbiased review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.

[Briar's Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am totally digging this series, so it was only natural to pick up yet another great biographical picture book! And to top it off, a book about sports!!

This time around Jesse Owens is the star. This young boy grew up to be an Olympic runner! From a small town start, to the big leagues, this guy is truly incredible!

I had heard of Jesse Owens but didn't know his background, so this was yet another great book to read. I find that this series makes non-fiction and learning so easy and fun, and as an adult I love them!

Overall, this is another great book! I'd highly recommend picking up this book for your youngsters!

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.

[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This biography for kids is about Jesse Owens, a world class runner who overcame extreme prejudice to become an Olympic gold medalist.

The Little People, Big Dreams series is a great series for young children to learn about the great people who came before them. If you have children or grandchildren who want to learn about the past, you will like this series.

I received a free copy of this book from Frances Lincoln Children's Books and the authors via Netgalley. My review is voluntary.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Find the good. It's all around you. Find it, showcase it, and you'll start believing in it.

The life story of Jesse Owens is one that is inspiring and a good role model for all of us. Being discriminated against because of race in the 1930's he rose above and lived his mantra.

Not to sure what to make of the shower scene. Again, these series of books are geared towards adults not toddlers unless you are progressive in nature.

A Special Thank you to Quarto Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Martina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The ‘My First Little People, Big Dreams’ series provides informative and inspirational biographies about people who left a mark on this earth, no matter what difficulties they have encountered.
These stories are very short, but that’s because they’re books for children, so it’s totally understandable.
I think they are a very smart and wonderful way to introduce little children to such important figures.
In this volume we have the story of Jesse Owens, the famous American track and field athlete and four-time gold medalist in the 1936 Olympic Games. I liked how here is shown not just his success but also his struggles with racism and segregation.

[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This biography for kids is about Jesse Owens, a world class runner who overcame extreme prejudice to become an Olympic gold medalist.

The Little People, Big Dreams series is a great series for young children to learn about the great people who came before them. If you have children or grandchildren who want to learn about the past, you will like this series.

I received a free copy of this book from Frances Lincoln Children's Books and the authors via Netgalley. My review is voluntary.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Little People, Big Dreams series. It features ordinary children, accomplishing extraordinary things. These short, non-fiction books include a short story of how these amazing people began life and pursued their dreams. There is a short biography, photographs and timeline at the end of the book to add to what the reader learns in the story. This addition to the series is one of my favourites. We meet a young Jesse Owens, aka J.C. He was fast, even as a young boy, but had too much to do helping his family and working to join a team. When he went to University, he still had to work in order to remain, but was part of the track team. He even became captain of the team, which was a bit hypocritical, as he was subject to racism and segregation. He had to sit and wait until the white members of the team showered before he was allowed to do the same. His achievements, specifically at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, are legendary, but again, he was not recognized in his own country until segregation ended. I loved reading about this hero, both in sports and human rights, and his gentle way of dealing with the life he was dealt. As always, the illustrations were quirky, yet fit the story perfectly. This is a wonderful starting point to learn more about this great man, as well as to research and learn about racism and segregation in the US. I definitely recommend this to libraries (public, school, classroom, family). The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.

[I'mogén · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for this e-arc. All opinions are 100% my own.

Now this was a person I knew nothing about, and I'm sad for that because what an achievement Jesse made. I felt heartbroken for him that he faced all these prejudices, it would have dampened my spirit, but he said "find the good. It's all around you" and this, I feel, will stay with me.

I'd actually love to read a full biography about this athlete, which is the first time I've willingly wanted to read more about a sportsperson.

Another inspiring read from this series.

Pick it up, give it a go and enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

Another superbly positive and inspiring book in the Little People Big Dreams series!
This one is about Jesse Owens who became the first African American captain of his university's running team and went on to win gold medals in the Olympic games in Germany during Hitler's reign.
These books are so inspiring for chikdren as they show that life can be hard but if you are determined enough and follow your dreams you can achieve great things.

[thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, another amazing addition to this wonderful library of inspiring legends , I cannot recommend these enough for big people as well as little, they are a joy to read and may teach you something new.


Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

[Helena#bookdreamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a wonderful biographical board book about the life of athlete Jesse Owens. The fastest man of this time. I admired how the author included a realistic picture of his life and battle with racism. Although he was one of the most admired athletes of the world he was still met with prejudice and racism. Loved it!

[Sharah McConville · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesse Owens is an inspirational children's story about a young man who became the first
African-American Captain of the Ohio State University Running Team. He soon became an Olympian who competed and won a medal at the Berlin Olympics in the 1930's. This is another great book in the Little People, Big Dreams series. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly inspiring book.
I was born in the 1950’s and knew of his exploits at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. I didn’t appreciate how this political capital for the Allies against Hitler was a touch hypocritical given his struggles at home as a Black American.
This story may surprise a younger generation but this road to equality and racial segregation must never be forgotten. I am pleased to see that Jesse was a humble man and despite being the youngest of 10 siblings worked hard and loved athletics.
He deserves his place in this wonderful collection of titles that covers so many people across many disciplines.
We may not be able to run like the wind but our hearts must be stirred up to confront and overcome any forms of prejudice and discrimination.
I hope others will love and enjoy sharing Owen’s life story with their children. The colours lend to the time and life pre-war. These booklets never disappoint and are worth collecting as these stories stand the test of time.

[J. d'Merricksson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jesse Owens by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara explores the life this Olympian who participated in the Games in Hitler's Germany, and who stood against racism on many fronts. I appreciate that the author didn't shy away from portraying the racism faced by young Jesse (and adult Jesse). The end of the book contains a more detailed look at Owens' life, using language suited for much older readers. Inspirational and educational both, this entire series is great! I read this with my cubs. We love this series! Highly recommended!

***Many thanks to the Netgalley & Quarto Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Alicia Unterreiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Love Love this addition of Little People Big Dreams! Great illustrations. Great way for children to learn about people who have changed the world!
Thanks for the ARC NetGalley!

[Jes Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another installment in the Little People, Big Dreams series. Jesse Owens faced a lot of adversity in his running career. This book provides a great conversation starter for younger kids about his life and the racism he faced.

Perfect addition to school and public libraries.

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Sancez Vegara does a beautiful job telling the story of Jesse Owens.  While reading this book, young readers will learn about Owens's many incredible athletic achievements, while also learning about  the racism and hardships that he endured.  This entry is most highly recommended.  As always, the illustrations enhance the text.


Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura Duffy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very important title added to this series. This shows how Jesse Owens proved Hitler wrong and won 3 gold medals but still suffered racism. This can help start the important conversation of how racism is wrong in a sensitive way. Beautifully illustrated.

[Regina Chari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the little people, big dreams books. They are well written, tell a delightful true story in an age appropriate way and have beautiful illustrations.

I didn't know much about the story of Jesse Owens before reading this little book. I was grateful to have the opportunity to read this story and will want to learn more about Jesse. I highly recommend this book for anyone who reads to children. They will have fun getting to know this special story.

The publisher made a copy of this book available on Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions here are my honest review.

[Storywraps · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. It features ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things in our world. The short, non-fiction board books are educational and inspiring.

Jesse Owens was the youngest of ten children and he grew up working in the cotton fields of Alabama. His powerful biography is one of determination and perseverance despite the cultural problems of segregation and racism that were prevalent during his lifetime. His uncanny ability as an athlete powered him from his poverty-stricken life to one of a superstar but he had many struggles along the way. It was almost impossible for him to gain recognition for his superman abilities because of the colour of his skin.

This magnanimous American track and field contender won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. His long jump record stood for 25 years.

The quirky illustrations greatly enrich the text and the author has included extra facts and a biographical timeline with historical photos at the back of the book. Finally in 1976 President Gerald Ford awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.

[George1st · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful inclusion in the "Little People, Big Dreams" series, which provides children with the biographies of inspirational people from the past and present.

Often those featured have to overcome hardship and prejudice to achieve great things.
This was certainly the case with Jessie Owens who was faced throughout much of his life with the inequities of segregation and prejudice in his own country.

Now almost exclusively remembered from his exploits at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, the book goes further to show how on his return he was marginalised and for a time largely forgotten.

With its quirky, colourful illustrations the book makes an excellent contribution to a child's understanding of how prejudice has played a part in history and society.

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book explaining segregation, prejudice, and the importance of equal rights through the life of an Olympian. Jesse Owens made pursuing his dreams of being the greatest athlete a priority while living in a world that was treating him as if his accomplishments were less than what they were because of the color of his skin. This is also a good read when exploring what are acts of good sportsmanship. The illustrations are contrasting in color and there is a lot of primary color usage, which is a great way to catch the attention of young readers. There is some nudity in the fact a bare bottom is depicted.

Received galley for unbiased review.

[Aanandika · Rating 5 out of 5]

As lovely as all the other books in this series which has become both loved and admired in my household. The book tells the story of Jesse Owens, probably the greatest athlete ever and the difficulties which he faced almost all his life. With beautiful illustrations the book attempts at making the children aware about this great man who could run real fast. The section at the end highlighting the special years in his journey are very imformative.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesse Owens came from humble beginnings. He was the 10th child of a farmer in Alabama, Jesse was a great athlete. He was able to be captain of his college track team and wen5 to the Olympics, even though his opportunities were restricted due to his race.

This book describes Jesse Owens’s life in detail, but. In easily understood language for children. The illustrations are well done.

As an educator, I would recommend this book to children to see that they can do big things even if they come from very little material wealth. Everyone can make a difference.

Thank you to the Quarto Group and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ula · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5 🌟 Educational and nicely illustrated

Little People, Big Dreams are short books for children about exceptional people who shaped our world. They're enjoyable pieces of non-fiction to enjoy by children. I love biographies of people who dared to be different, and these short books are one of my favorites.

What I especially like about the series ‘Little People, Big Dreams’ are simple and friendly illustrations to make children feel it was truly made for them. Graphics to 'Jesse Owens' were made by Anna Katharina Jensen and they're fit perfectly amid the spirit of the first half of the XXth century with their sepia warm colors.

The biography is highly educational and besides Jesse Owens' history, it touches problems of segregation and racism in the United States and in the World. It should be read along with children to help them explain the struggles Jesse Owens had because of his skin color. I love the most in 'Little People, Big Dreams' that I keep learning something new about influent personas in the history.

*Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and feelings are my own.*

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful story of determination and perseverance

"Find the good. It's all around you. Find it, showcase it and you'll start believing it."

The "Little People Big Dreams" series can be a bit hit or miss. This one is definitely a hit! Jesse Owens is an important African American track athlete with a very inspiring story. He worked very hard to overcome poverty and racism. The language in the book is easy but powerful, with beautiful illustrations and a short biography with pictures at the end. A very inspiring and important book.

[Theediscerning · Rating 4 out of 5]

A better entry to this series that has to be given the over-arching verdict of 'patchy to good'. This is not at all patchy, and nicely combines the details of Jesse Owens' formative years, Olympic fame and so on with all the attendant racism that hampered his existence throughout. The artwork is still a naff, childish design, all cheesy ball-shaped cheekbones sticking out from all the faces and all dodgy lack of perspective, as if one of the target readers had drawn it themselves (you know, I THINK young kids are OK with books that look like they had an adult hand in creating them). It does at least contain some nice beats, though, such as Hitler storming off his VIP box at the sight of Owens getting Berlin Olympic gold. But the text in these books hasn't always been wondrous, either, so it's nice to say this really does pin down why we look up to the athlete Owens to this day – it was both what he had within him as a natural talent and how he reacted to all that was going on around him. Classy, and even though this doesn't look to fit that descriptor, it more or less is.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another great addition to this series - it is a series I would definitely recommended to all!!

This book featured Jesse Owens, I knew a little about Jesse but even as an adult I would the book to be informative and I did learn more about his back story. I liked how the story told not only his success but also the issues he faced at the times with racism and segregation too - it was a well rounded book.

It is 5 stars from me for this one, it was a great book, I loved the images and the way that the story of Jesse Owens was told - his is a very positive story of determination through adversity.