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Little People, BIG DREAMS
Rosalind Franklin (Volume 65)
In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Rosalind Franklin, the scientist who was crucial to the discovery of the double helix in DNA.
Little Rosalind was born in London to a Jewish family who valued education and public service, and as she grew up her huge intellectual abilities were drawn into the study of science.
Having studied physics and chemistry at Cambridge University, Rosalind moved to Paris to perfect her life’s work in X-ray crystallography. She then moved back to King’s College London, where she would work on finding the structure of DNA with Maurice Wilkins.
It was Rosalind’s “photo 51” that was used by Wilkins to create the first ever double helix DNA model with Francis Crick, although he did not credit for her work due to a falling out between the two, and her work went unacknowledged until after her death.
However, today she is revered as the forgotten heroine of the study of how DNA works , and the “Sylvia Plath of molecular biology”.
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 brilliant scientist’s life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling biography series for kids that explores the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series of books offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover and paperback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. With rewritten text for older children, the treasuries each bring together a multitude of dreamers in a single volume. You can also collect a selection of the books by theme in boxed gift sets . Activity books and a journal provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
Little Rosalind was born in London to a Jewish family who valued education and public service, and as she grew up her huge intellectual abilities were drawn into the study of science.
Having studied physics and chemistry at Cambridge University, Rosalind moved to Paris to perfect her life’s work in X-ray crystallography. She then moved back to King’s College London, where she would work on finding the structure of DNA with Maurice Wilkins.
It was Rosalind’s “photo 51” that was used by Wilkins to create the first ever double helix DNA model with Francis Crick, although he did not credit for her work due to a falling out between the two, and her work went unacknowledged until after her death.
However, today she is revered as the forgotten heroine of the study of how DNA works , and the “Sylvia Plath of molecular biology”.
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 brilliant scientist’s life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling biography series for kids that explores the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series of books offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover and paperback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. With rewritten text for older children, the treasuries each bring together a multitude of dreamers in a single volume. You can also collect a selection of the books by theme in boxed gift sets . Activity books and a journal provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.
Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
2 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara
229 books447 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 58 reviews
January 22, 2022
4☆ Another Wonderful Book in this Fascinating Series!
I adore these Collection of books, not only are they easy for children to understand and learn about, but they are also fun and beautifully illustrated.
I had never heard of Rosalind Franklin and her story was utterly fascinating and empowering. Not only was she a fantastic Scientist, she was kind and had a big heart wanting to help others. She helped out during the war times and then dedicated her time and research into X-Rays and DNA, which is amazing considering at some point everyone will experience an X-ray.
The very sad thing is that Rosalind never got the recognition for her hard work that she so deserved.
That's why it's so important to teach children all about these Empowering and Influential people, to show children that you can be whoever you want to be and most importantly never give up on your dreams!
Thank you to Quarto Publishing & Netgalley for my copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I adore these Collection of books, not only are they easy for children to understand and learn about, but they are also fun and beautifully illustrated.
I had never heard of Rosalind Franklin and her story was utterly fascinating and empowering. Not only was she a fantastic Scientist, she was kind and had a big heart wanting to help others. She helped out during the war times and then dedicated her time and research into X-Rays and DNA, which is amazing considering at some point everyone will experience an X-ray.
The very sad thing is that Rosalind never got the recognition for her hard work that she so deserved.
That's why it's so important to teach children all about these Empowering and Influential people, to show children that you can be whoever you want to be and most importantly never give up on your dreams!
Thank you to Quarto Publishing & Netgalley for my copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 24, 2021
The ARC 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.
This little book here is about Rosalind Franklin, one of the most important chemists of the 20th century. As a woman, she had to fight to get the place she rightfully deserved among her colleagues, but she persisted and her meaningful work in science is still very important today.
I'm sure children are going to love reading about this amazing and inspiring scientist!
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 little book here is about Rosalind Franklin, one of the most important chemists of the 20th century. As a woman, she had to fight to get the place she rightfully deserved among her colleagues, but she persisted and her meaningful work in science is still very important today.
I'm sure children are going to love reading about this amazing and inspiring scientist!
August 8, 2021
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Rosalind Franklin is another amazing addition in this fabulous series - Little People Big Dreams.
This book tells the short, condensed, chikd friendly biography of Rosalind Franklin from being a child and her love of science. It's awful how Rosalind wasn't credited as she should have been back when she made such important and amazing discoveries relating to DNA.
This book encourages children (especially girls) to reach high for what they dream of doing and not let anyone hold them back in life. I wish I'd have had such amazing and inspiring books when I was a child.
Rosalind Franklin is another amazing addition in this fabulous series - Little People Big Dreams.
This book tells the short, condensed, chikd friendly biography of Rosalind Franklin from being a child and her love of science. It's awful how Rosalind wasn't credited as she should have been back when she made such important and amazing discoveries relating to DNA.
This book encourages children (especially girls) to reach high for what they dream of doing and not let anyone hold them back in life. I wish I'd have had such amazing and inspiring books when I was a child.
September 2, 2021
It's science time! Rosalind Franklin was a hero during my high school years. I was big into the "women of the world" who did great and amazing things. I learned so much in chemistry class about her and wanted to be a chemist. Well, that didn't end up happening but I still love seeing and hearing her story. It was only a matter of time before she made her way into this fantastic series!
I definitely recommend picking this one up if you want to read non-fiction picture books with some fantastic STEM info in it!
The illustrations are kind of goofy and very childish, making this book not feel so... smart. It's weird, and I don't really like it. But that's just my personal opinion.
Three out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
I definitely recommend picking this one up if you want to read non-fiction picture books with some fantastic STEM info in it!
The illustrations are kind of goofy and very childish, making this book not feel so... smart. It's weird, and I don't really like it. But that's just my personal opinion.
Three out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
July 28, 2021
The ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The ‘My First Little People, Big Dreams’ series provides informative and inspirational biographies about people who left a mark on this earth, no matter what difficulties they have encountered.
These stories are very short, but that’s because they’re books for children, so it’s totally understandable.
I think they are a very smart and wonderful way to introduce little children to such important figures.
This little book tells the story of Rosalind Franklin, one of the most important chemists of all time. Thanks to her works we now know a lot more about DNA and ourselves. she was a genius and an inspiring figure to look up to.
The ‘My First Little People, Big Dreams’ series provides informative and inspirational biographies about people who left a mark on this earth, no matter what difficulties they have encountered.
These stories are very short, but that’s because they’re books for children, so it’s totally understandable.
I think they are a very smart and wonderful way to introduce little children to such important figures.
This little book tells the story of Rosalind Franklin, one of the most important chemists of all time. Thanks to her works we now know a lot more about DNA and ourselves. she was a genius and an inspiring figure to look up to.
August 4, 2021
This book is part of the Wonderful Series, Little People, Big Dreams. I love the people chosen to tell about. There is such a great variety of people featured.
I was not even aware of Rosalind Pike, yet she had an incredible influence on the discovery of the Double Helix, which shows the structure of DNA. I do remember two male scientists getting the Nobel Prize for working on this. Rosalind’s incredible work was not given credit.
Rosalind grew up in London and her passion was always Chemistry. Science was a difficult field for women to get into at the time. She was born in 1920. Most girls schools never even taught Science at all. Fortunately, Evelyn went to a school that did. Later, when she is in college, she becomes friends with Adrienne, who is one of Marie Curie’s students. During the war, Rosalind proves very helpful as she has been studying Coal. She is able to make better masks using Coal and this saves Soldier’s Lives.
Rosalind and Adrienne work together again in Paris uses X-Rays. This technique is used to take pictures of Molecules. At this time, many scientists are trying to figure out information of how DNA is structured. This is the molecule that contains all the information about our bodies. Rosalind is asked to take pictures of DNA’s structure. She is the only scientist in the world able to do this. She takes Photo 51, which proves DNA looks like two staircases twisted into a spiral. This is incredible information that she has discovered and forever changes our understanding of DNA.
This is an incredible story of a woman I don’t think many people are aware of. She was one of the most important chemists of all time. Rosalind just sees Science as a way to help humankind.
So, this Book it wonderful for children, especially young girls who enjoy Science. It shows them how their interest can literally change the world. This is a wonderful book that should be in libraries and schools. It gives children the opportunity to find out about people who share their interests. I thought this was a wonderful story and highly recommend this book.
Thank you NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for an ARC of this book. I always love to read them.
I was not even aware of Rosalind Pike, yet she had an incredible influence on the discovery of the Double Helix, which shows the structure of DNA. I do remember two male scientists getting the Nobel Prize for working on this. Rosalind’s incredible work was not given credit.
Rosalind grew up in London and her passion was always Chemistry. Science was a difficult field for women to get into at the time. She was born in 1920. Most girls schools never even taught Science at all. Fortunately, Evelyn went to a school that did. Later, when she is in college, she becomes friends with Adrienne, who is one of Marie Curie’s students. During the war, Rosalind proves very helpful as she has been studying Coal. She is able to make better masks using Coal and this saves Soldier’s Lives.
Rosalind and Adrienne work together again in Paris uses X-Rays. This technique is used to take pictures of Molecules. At this time, many scientists are trying to figure out information of how DNA is structured. This is the molecule that contains all the information about our bodies. Rosalind is asked to take pictures of DNA’s structure. She is the only scientist in the world able to do this. She takes Photo 51, which proves DNA looks like two staircases twisted into a spiral. This is incredible information that she has discovered and forever changes our understanding of DNA.
This is an incredible story of a woman I don’t think many people are aware of. She was one of the most important chemists of all time. Rosalind just sees Science as a way to help humankind.
So, this Book it wonderful for children, especially young girls who enjoy Science. It shows them how their interest can literally change the world. This is a wonderful book that should be in libraries and schools. It gives children the opportunity to find out about people who share their interests. I thought this was a wonderful story and highly recommend this book.
Thank you NetGalley, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for an ARC of this book. I always love to read them.
August 23, 2021
Discover the lives of extraordinary people, from designers and artists to scientists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as merely a child with a dream. Rosalind Franklin was born into a large, well educated and loving family in London, she grew up with a keen desire to do things that would improve the lives of others. By the age of 15, she knew she wanted to be a scientist. Less than 20 years later, she took the world’s first photograph of DNA, changing the future of science forever. This inspiring story of the pioneering scientist features her life story and a facts and photo section towards the back.
It's an educational and entertaining read filled with vivid full-colour illustrations and it empowers young ones to pursue their dreams without limitations and inspires them to dream bigger and realise their fullest potential, by introducing them to extraordinary people throughout history. It's a wonderfully engaging and simple to understand book that also helps kids with literacy and fosters an enjoyment of reading. You simply cannot go wrong with this series in general as everything is executed perfectly and tailored beautifully to youngsters. There is just enough information to whet their appetite but not enough to overwhelm them. Highly recommended.
It's an educational and entertaining read filled with vivid full-colour illustrations and it empowers young ones to pursue their dreams without limitations and inspires them to dream bigger and realise their fullest potential, by introducing them to extraordinary people throughout history. It's a wonderfully engaging and simple to understand book that also helps kids with literacy and fosters an enjoyment of reading. You simply cannot go wrong with this series in general as everything is executed perfectly and tailored beautifully to youngsters. There is just enough information to whet their appetite but not enough to overwhelm them. Highly recommended.
March 5, 2022
I am such a fan of this series of picture books. Each book in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series focuses on a different person who has made a difference in the world. In this book, we learn all about Rosalind Franklin, an essential and accomplished chemist. She always had a fondness for science, even as a young girl. She went to college for science, even though it was rare for women at the time. Her discoveries assisted the British during WWII, and she was the first person ever to capture a photo of DNA. This book is inspirational to any young aspiring scientists out there and a perfect picture book to read for Women's History Month.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
September 15, 2021
I was thinking that maybe I just didn't like this particular series, but I loved this particular book. The straightforward telling of the story conveys that Rosalind was intelligent, kind, and dedicated to the process of learning and discovery. As a chemistry and DNA enthusiast I've always liked Franklin and I am overjoyed at how the book refuses to name those two Nobel Prize Winning scientists who should have shared the credit with her. Highly recommended.
December 9, 2021
Kat gave me this book for my classroom for Christmas! Rosalind Franklin is an incredibly important woman. Her contributions to science deserve to be shared! Excited for my female students to be encouraged by Rosalind’s story to pursue careers in STEM!
July 26, 2021
Much more successful than other recent volumes in this series, this look at the once-much-ignored scientist is a great summary of her life, even if it has to skirt the fact she died criminally young. The product of a fine education, Rosalind was able to show us huge things with the use of a tiny picture – or rather, other people were given prizes for the showing, while she took the image in anonymity that books like this help destroy. Handling the language of the STEM subjects concerned well, this doesn't look bad compared to some efforts elsewhere under the same banner, so it should find a welcome place in young readers' school libraries. A strong four stars.
July 25, 2021
This is another brilliant addition to this series – even as an adult I look out for the next book in the series being released!
I love the images in this series and this is a delightful introduction to Rosalind Franklin – she was a pioneer and such a fascinating lady – intelligent and not afraid to push boundaries in her field to find out more.
This series is an excellent introduction 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, the rights of minorities, political influence, women's rights and science. I love the variety of people chosen and how positive the books are and this one shows too how other were more than willing to take her discoveries as their own, sadly something that did happen in the past but thankfully not such much now. She needs to be praised for her discoveries.
It is 5 stars from me for this one – a delightful read and one I will be very highly recommending!
I love the images in this series and this is a delightful introduction to Rosalind Franklin – she was a pioneer and such a fascinating lady – intelligent and not afraid to push boundaries in her field to find out more.
This series is an excellent introduction 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, the rights of minorities, political influence, women's rights and science. I love the variety of people chosen and how positive the books are and this one shows too how other were more than willing to take her discoveries as their own, sadly something that did happen in the past but thankfully not such much now. She needs to be praised for her discoveries.
It is 5 stars from me for this one – a delightful read and one I will be very highly recommending!
August 21, 2021
Once again, this series has introduced another role model to my grandson and me. He was very interesting in this story, especially as his mother has her Masters in Genetics. The younger generation doesn't always understand the way women were treated years ago, as things have changed a lot since then, but I tried to impress on him how important it is that he not treat women or girls as inferior. Rosalind Franklin did some pretty impressive things in Science, Chemistry and Genetics that changed what we knew about human DNA and viruses. She did this despite being treated as an inferior scientist because she was a woman. She did not give up and persevered in her desired path. The illustrations were once again well done and complemented the text well. This book, as well as the others, piqued our interest and highlights a person who deserves to be more well known. Another great addition to this series to encourage children to follow their dreams. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request, the rating and opinions shared are my own.
August 29, 2021
Born into a Jewish family, Rosalind Franklin grew up in England. A model student who was curious and eager to learn, the high achiever developed a passion for science and loved putting things under the microscope. However, working in the field of chemistry was rare for a woman at the time. Thankfully, Rosalind wasn’t deterred by such a thing and she would go on to make one of the greatest ever scientific discoveries…
I’m so pleased that the story of Rosalind Franklin has been added to the Little People, Big Dreams series. She is, without question, one of the most important scientists of all time and whose ground-breaking work on DNA was revolutionary. The delightful biography charts her passion for science from an early age to her academic studies through to one of the biggest ever break-throughs in science.
There is so much to admire about Rosalind’s story, from working at a time when female scientists were looked down upon by their male counterparts to her self-less drive and determination to help humankind in whatever way she could. Rosalind always wanted to help others, whether that be through her science work or in countless other ways. At university she gave her scholarship to another student who needed it more and would later volunteer to help people find shelter during the air raids of World War 2. Whether in the science lab or somewhere else, Rosalind’s kindness always shone through.
Sadly she lead a rather short life but the incredibly hard-working and intelligent woman was a trailblazer and a pioneer in the scientific world who made a huge difference in her fields of study. Driven not by fame or success, she was motivated by her desire to better understand the scientific questions that she had and to ultimately help humankind. What a fantastic lesson to give to young readers where the value of motivation from within outweighed the motivation to win a prize. Rosalind would however be the victim of a tragic oversight when fellow scientists claimed her work on DNA as their own and won the Nobel Prize.
Rosalind Franklin is a fantastic female role model for so many reasons. Girls can see a wonderful lady who achieved in a male dominated field and it is a great biography to share with young boys to help them understand that girls can do things just as well as they can, or if they are anything like Rosalind, then probably much better. The story is told in short and simple sentences and is delightfully illustrated with bright and bold artwork. At the back of the the book there is a short overview of her life which includes key facts and dates and a historical timeline featuring photographs.
Recommended for 5+.
With thanks to Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the advanced reader copy that was received through NetGalley.
I’m so pleased that the story of Rosalind Franklin has been added to the Little People, Big Dreams series. She is, without question, one of the most important scientists of all time and whose ground-breaking work on DNA was revolutionary. The delightful biography charts her passion for science from an early age to her academic studies through to one of the biggest ever break-throughs in science.
There is so much to admire about Rosalind’s story, from working at a time when female scientists were looked down upon by their male counterparts to her self-less drive and determination to help humankind in whatever way she could. Rosalind always wanted to help others, whether that be through her science work or in countless other ways. At university she gave her scholarship to another student who needed it more and would later volunteer to help people find shelter during the air raids of World War 2. Whether in the science lab or somewhere else, Rosalind’s kindness always shone through.
Sadly she lead a rather short life but the incredibly hard-working and intelligent woman was a trailblazer and a pioneer in the scientific world who made a huge difference in her fields of study. Driven not by fame or success, she was motivated by her desire to better understand the scientific questions that she had and to ultimately help humankind. What a fantastic lesson to give to young readers where the value of motivation from within outweighed the motivation to win a prize. Rosalind would however be the victim of a tragic oversight when fellow scientists claimed her work on DNA as their own and won the Nobel Prize.
Rosalind Franklin is a fantastic female role model for so many reasons. Girls can see a wonderful lady who achieved in a male dominated field and it is a great biography to share with young boys to help them understand that girls can do things just as well as they can, or if they are anything like Rosalind, then probably much better. The story is told in short and simple sentences and is delightfully illustrated with bright and bold artwork. At the back of the the book there is a short overview of her life which includes key facts and dates and a historical timeline featuring photographs.
Recommended for 5+.
With thanks to Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the advanced reader copy that was received through NetGalley.
August 22, 2021
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Rosalind Franklin is a short illustrated biography of the famed scientist for young readers in the Little People, Big Dreams series. I've reviewed a number of these titles and all of them are delightful and exuberant little books which cover the lives of famous cultural, science, arts, and icons of innovation while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail.
Due out 24th Aug 2021 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's 32 pages and will be available in hardcover, and ebook formats.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's well written in clear accessible language. There is so much information included in this little book. The art by Naomi Wilkinson is appealing and colorful and supports the text very well. The illustrations are active and kinetic and suit the subjects. I especially liked the artist's illustrations of the x-ray diffraction images and the famous "photo 51" which first showed the X-formation of the DNA macromolecule.
Well written and appealing, I am really enjoying all of these little books. This one is a worthy addition.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Rosalind Franklin died tragically young and I'm impressed by the way this series manages to provide age appropriate biography without emphasizing or detracting from the racism, professional sexism, and troubles she lived through. This would make a great starting point for deeper research for young readers who are interested in STEM subjects, life science, and Franklin's life and legacy.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
Rosalind Franklin is a short illustrated biography of the famed scientist for young readers in the Little People, Big Dreams series. I've reviewed a number of these titles and all of them are delightful and exuberant little books which cover the lives of famous cultural, science, arts, and icons of innovation while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail.
Due out 24th Aug 2021 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's 32 pages and will be available in hardcover, and ebook formats.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's well written in clear accessible language. There is so much information included in this little book. The art by Naomi Wilkinson is appealing and colorful and supports the text very well. The illustrations are active and kinetic and suit the subjects. I especially liked the artist's illustrations of the x-ray diffraction images and the famous "photo 51" which first showed the X-formation of the DNA macromolecule.
Well written and appealing, I am really enjoying all of these little books. This one is a worthy addition.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Rosalind Franklin died tragically young and I'm impressed by the way this series manages to provide age appropriate biography without emphasizing or detracting from the racism, professional sexism, and troubles she lived through. This would make a great starting point for deeper research for young readers who are interested in STEM subjects, life science, and Franklin's life and legacy.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
May 6, 2025
Das Buch Rosalind Franklin aus der Little People, Big Dreams-Reihe ist ein visuell sehr gelungenes Kinderbuch. Die Illustrationen sind detailreich, einfühlsam und tragen viel zur positiven Wirkung der Geschichte bei. Sie schaffen es, Rosalind Franklins wissenschaftlichen Werdegang auf kindgerechte und inspirierende Weise darzustellen – ein wichtiger Beitrag zur Sichtbarkeit von Frauen in der Wissenschaft.
Inhaltlich wird Rosalind Franklin als wissbegierige, zielstrebige junge Frau dargestellt, die mit Leidenschaft forscht und entscheidende Beiträge zur Entdeckung der DNA-Struktur leistet. Diese Darstellung ist ermutigend und zeigt, dass Neugier und Ausdauer Großes bewirken können.
Was ich jedoch etwas vermisst habe, ist ein kritischerer Umgang mit dem Sexismus, dem Franklin begegnete. Ihre Leistung wurde zu Lebzeiten stark unterschätzt und sie wurde in einem von Männern dominierten Umfeld oft übergangen. Diese Realität wird im Buch zwar angedeutet, aber sehr zurückhaltend dargestellt.
Ich kann nachvollziehen, dass die Reihe darauf abzielt, Vorbilder zu zeigen und junge Leser*innen zu inspirieren – und dass ein zu starker Fokus auf Diskriminierung womöglich abschrecken würde. Trotzdem hätte ich mir gewünscht, dass gerade dieser Aspekt etwas deutlicher benannt wird, denn er gehört zu Franklins Geschichte und macht ihre Stärke und ihren Beitrag nur noch bewundernswerter.
Insgesamt ist Rosalind Franklin ein schön gestaltetes Buch, das auf kindgerechte Weise Wissen vermittelt und Mut macht. Mit etwas mehr Tiefgang in der Darstellung der Hindernisse hätte es das Bild dieser beeindruckenden Frau noch stärker gemacht – gerade weil es zeigt, wie viel sie trotz dieser Hürden erreicht hat.
Inhaltlich wird Rosalind Franklin als wissbegierige, zielstrebige junge Frau dargestellt, die mit Leidenschaft forscht und entscheidende Beiträge zur Entdeckung der DNA-Struktur leistet. Diese Darstellung ist ermutigend und zeigt, dass Neugier und Ausdauer Großes bewirken können.
Was ich jedoch etwas vermisst habe, ist ein kritischerer Umgang mit dem Sexismus, dem Franklin begegnete. Ihre Leistung wurde zu Lebzeiten stark unterschätzt und sie wurde in einem von Männern dominierten Umfeld oft übergangen. Diese Realität wird im Buch zwar angedeutet, aber sehr zurückhaltend dargestellt.
Ich kann nachvollziehen, dass die Reihe darauf abzielt, Vorbilder zu zeigen und junge Leser*innen zu inspirieren – und dass ein zu starker Fokus auf Diskriminierung womöglich abschrecken würde. Trotzdem hätte ich mir gewünscht, dass gerade dieser Aspekt etwas deutlicher benannt wird, denn er gehört zu Franklins Geschichte und macht ihre Stärke und ihren Beitrag nur noch bewundernswerter.
Insgesamt ist Rosalind Franklin ein schön gestaltetes Buch, das auf kindgerechte Weise Wissen vermittelt und Mut macht. Mit etwas mehr Tiefgang in der Darstellung der Hindernisse hätte es das Bild dieser beeindruckenden Frau noch stärker gemacht – gerade weil es zeigt, wie viel sie trotz dieser Hürden erreicht hat.
November 9, 2021
Author: Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Illustrator: Naomi Wilkinson
Age Recommendation: Early Primary
Topic/ Theme: Science, biographic.
Setting: Europe
Series: Little People, Big Dreams
And once again we see a demonstration of the wonderful sexism that existed in the sciences, particularly around the huge discoveries. (Also proof of the strength of Marie Curie's accomplishment if it was ever needed.) This is a lovely book though. It focuses very much on science and academia as settings. Even Rosalind Franklin's childhood dining table looks a bit like the scientific spaces later in the book. All the settings work so well and they fit together. The colours while not what you would expect are bright and cheery, fitting the hopeful tone of the book. The end page choices are fantastic the double helix that makes up the DNA sequence.
There is a reminder in the illustrations that it is largely women that push for the acknowledgement of our forbear's effort and contributions to history. All the people surrounding Rosalind Franklin on the page about the time it took for her work to be acknowledged are women. This book has a large feeling of the power of the female network, one of Rosalind Franklin's greatest contacts was Adrienne Weill French scientist and Marie Curie's apprentice. That female power in what was certainly at the time and to a degree remains a male-dominated industry is a fantastic choice. It makes this book easily recommendable for those young science-minded girls.
September 30, 2024
I am reviewing these short biographies as a series, rather than individually, unless one title requires additional information or comments. There are dozens of books in this series of well-done biiographies, all written by Vegera. The titles generally focus on one individual, many still living, but some are not. Many of the featured characters are famous but some aren’t as famous as they should be, considering the impact that those people had on fields like science, technology, research, healthcare, leadership, literature, arts and culture, sports, aviation, education, human rights, world peace, animal welfare / conservation, climate change and conservation of earth, air and water. Many of the featured characters got little recognition for their work in their lifetimes. All these stories have been pared down to what information is most essential and pertinent to the topic and person. These books are targeted at children and written in language and concepts suitable for them, but also for their parents, teachers and caregivers who may read these to, or discuss them with, the children. The books are beautifully illustrated, by many different artists, so although the books are similar in size, length, and concept, they are different in artistic style – to suit the featured character and theme. I would strongly recommend these books to parents who want to have discussions with their children about issues like human rights and future career options but mostly about ensuring the children know, and do, what is right, and good to make a positive impact on society.
August 25, 2021
Rosalind Franklin by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is another release in the Little People, Big Dreams series, which I have reviewed frequently on here. I just love these little books. They are always packed with facts about the person who they are writing about and full of colourful illustrations throughout.
This book is about Rosalind was born in London to a Jewish family who valued education and public service, and as she grew up her huge intellectual abilities were drawn into the study of science.
Having studied physics and chemistry at Cambridge University, Rosalind moved to Paris to perfect her life’s work in X-ray crystallography. She then moved back to King’s College London, where she would work on finding the structure of DNA with Maurice Wilkins.
It was Rosalind’s “photo 51” that was used by Wilkins to create the first ever double helix DNA model with Francis Crick, although he did not credit for her work due to a falling out between the two, and her work went unacknowledged until after her death.
I found this little book full of easy to read, with great Illustrations throughout this small book.
It's one you should definitely buy for your little readers so they can learn about her....... She was a genius!
I am so glad these books are being published and I highly recommend all of these books
Many thanks to Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about Rosalind was born in London to a Jewish family who valued education and public service, and as she grew up her huge intellectual abilities were drawn into the study of science.
Having studied physics and chemistry at Cambridge University, Rosalind moved to Paris to perfect her life’s work in X-ray crystallography. She then moved back to King’s College London, where she would work on finding the structure of DNA with Maurice Wilkins.
It was Rosalind’s “photo 51” that was used by Wilkins to create the first ever double helix DNA model with Francis Crick, although he did not credit for her work due to a falling out between the two, and her work went unacknowledged until after her death.
I found this little book full of easy to read, with great Illustrations throughout this small book.
It's one you should definitely buy for your little readers so they can learn about her....... She was a genius!
I am so glad these books are being published and I highly recommend all of these books
Many thanks to Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2021
I love science, so I love that this series also highlights historical figures who made strides in it. The crazy thing about Rosalind is that she made such an impact on the field and what we know today but was not awarded the Nobel Prize like her male colleagues, who were also working on the discovery. I do feel as though the book really tried to make that seem completely as though it was a gender issue, however, Rosalind actually passed away before the award was given, and Nobels were very rarely give posthumously. Thus, it is hard to say if her sex played a part or not then. Only two males were awarded posthumously before they formally would not permit it anymore, in 1974, so I'm sure many males and females missed out on the opportunity. The one thing that can certainly be agreed upon is that she would have still faced many challenges as a woman scientist and posthumous awards or not, she definitely deserves credit for those influential studies by the world now. Both my kiddos and I really enjoyed reading about this woman who devoted her life to her scientific contributions and discoveries!
July 28, 2021
A STEM teacher with a love of Chemistry, I absolutely LOVED this book. It is one I’ll eagerly buy as gifts for students and young people alike! Tucked inside this fantastic book about the discovery of the double-helix in DNA is a wonderful message we all need to hear.
Rosalind Franklin faced many challenges as a female scientist, yet graciously worked to further knowledge in the field rather than seek credit and fame. This book follows her from a young, inquisitive child to her discoveries about coal, DNA and viruses. Throughout each stage of her life, Rosalind’s focus was on helping other people. The simple and bold illustrations help to showcase a little-known name in science.
This is a fabulous series and a wonderful way to educate young and old alike about little people who had big dreams which lead them to positively influence our world. It provides just the right enough of information to encourage further research into the life of this amazing woman.
Publishes August 24, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Quarto Publishing Group and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Rosalind Franklin faced many challenges as a female scientist, yet graciously worked to further knowledge in the field rather than seek credit and fame. This book follows her from a young, inquisitive child to her discoveries about coal, DNA and viruses. Throughout each stage of her life, Rosalind’s focus was on helping other people. The simple and bold illustrations help to showcase a little-known name in science.
This is a fabulous series and a wonderful way to educate young and old alike about little people who had big dreams which lead them to positively influence our world. It provides just the right enough of information to encourage further research into the life of this amazing woman.
Publishes August 24, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Quarto Publishing Group and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 2, 2021
Many of us know the term 'DNA', and many people may even know what it looks like, a double helix, but how many of us have given much thought as to how we know this?
We know what DNA looks like thanks to the Rosalind Franklin. She is the person who figured out how to photograph DNA. It took her and her assistant 100 hours to get the famous 'photograph 51', proving that DNA looks like two staircases twisted into a spiral.
I think this book really shows the kind of person Rosalind was. From the very beginning when she gave her college scholarship to a student who need it more than she did, to how she dealt with the exclusion of any recognition of her work on the DNA photograph that led to her colleagues receiving a Nobel Prize. Rosalind showed, kindness, grace and determination. When she wasn't acknowledged for her work, she just kept on her quest for knowledge and answers.
Her journey of discovery was not to gain accolades, but to answer the scientific questions she had, and to help humankind.
Thank you to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to review a copy of this book.
We know what DNA looks like thanks to the Rosalind Franklin. She is the person who figured out how to photograph DNA. It took her and her assistant 100 hours to get the famous 'photograph 51', proving that DNA looks like two staircases twisted into a spiral.
I think this book really shows the kind of person Rosalind was. From the very beginning when she gave her college scholarship to a student who need it more than she did, to how she dealt with the exclusion of any recognition of her work on the DNA photograph that led to her colleagues receiving a Nobel Prize. Rosalind showed, kindness, grace and determination. When she wasn't acknowledged for her work, she just kept on her quest for knowledge and answers.
Her journey of discovery was not to gain accolades, but to answer the scientific questions she had, and to help humankind.
Thank you to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to review a copy of this book.
September 5, 2021
The Rosalind Franklin edition of the Little People, Big Dreams stories is one of my favorites! Not only is her life fascinating and worthy of children learning about, but the actual implementation of her story into a book aimed at 4-7 year olds is excellent. I found that there is more narrative, more text, in her story than many others in the Little People, Big Dreams series. It allows for a more engaging narrative and her life on display feels inspiring in a way young children can relate to and grasp. I do think the thread of the narrative follows a similar tone to other women scientists featured in this series, but I like the forward-looking and hopeful end to this story which provides a vision of a diverse group of women scientists working hard and celebrating achievements. It may not be an exactly historically accurate depiction of the the end of Rosalind Franklin's life, but I think the tone fits for what this book sets out to achieve.
This is a wonderful and welcome story and one I think kids will enjoy!
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book by Quarto Kids. Opinions are my own.
This is a wonderful and welcome story and one I think kids will enjoy!
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book by Quarto Kids. Opinions are my own.
July 13, 2023
A pleasant story that brings young readers closer to the life of this scientist who, although she did not obtain the recognition of her fellow male scientists, has gone down to posterity for her discovery of the structure of DNA. With nice text and illustrations.
Istorio atsegina, irakurle gazteak zientzialari honen bizitzara hurbiltzen dituena, zeinak bere lagun gizonezko zientzialarien aintzatespena lortu ez bazuen ere, DNAren egituraren aurkikuntzagatik ondorengoetara joan da. Testu eta ilustrazio politekin.
Un agradable relato que acerca a los pequeños lectores la vida de esta científica que aunque no obtuvo el reconocimiento de sus coleas científicos masculinos ha pasado a la posteridad por su descubrimiento de la estructura del ADN. Con simpático texto e ilustraciones.
Une histoire sympathique qui rapproche les jeunes lecteurs de la vie de cette scientifique qui, si elle n'a pas obtenu la reconnaissance de ses confrères scientifiques masculins, est passée à la postérité pour sa découverte de la structure de l'ADN. Avec de jolis textes et illustrations.
Istorio atsegina, irakurle gazteak zientzialari honen bizitzara hurbiltzen dituena, zeinak bere lagun gizonezko zientzialarien aintzatespena lortu ez bazuen ere, DNAren egituraren aurkikuntzagatik ondorengoetara joan da. Testu eta ilustrazio politekin.
Un agradable relato que acerca a los pequeños lectores la vida de esta científica que aunque no obtuvo el reconocimiento de sus coleas científicos masculinos ha pasado a la posteridad por su descubrimiento de la estructura del ADN. Con simpático texto e ilustraciones.
Une histoire sympathique qui rapproche les jeunes lecteurs de la vie de cette scientifique qui, si elle n'a pas obtenu la reconnaissance de ses confrères scientifiques masculins, est passée à la postérité pour sa découverte de la structure de l'ADN. Avec de jolis textes et illustrations.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2022
#RosalindFranklin
Ich liebe diese Reihe der Bücher - für Kinder und auch Erwachsene immer gut geeignet, um einige interessante Grundlagen bestimmter Persönlichkeiten kennenzulernen.,
Jedes Buch ist liebevoll gezeichnet und auch zusätzlich gut für Neulinge in Sachen Englisch sehr geeignet - leicht verständlich, was man nicht versteht kann man relativ schnell nachschlagen.
Bücher dieser Reihe habe ich selber schon verschenkt und diese kamen immer gut an! (Printbücher sind sehr gute Qualität und ich war erstaunt wie groß diese sind - Preise sind moderat)
Note: 1 mit vielen Plusszeichen davor
#netgalley #arc
(Es gibt sehr viele Bücher dieser Reihe, deshalb habe ich in diesem Falle eine einheitliche Rezi gewählt - was aber nichts damit zu tun hat, das mir dieses Buch nicht gefällt. Ich möchte halt nicht immer zuviel verraten, das macht ja nun ein Buch aus - erfahren und lernen)
Ich liebe diese Reihe der Bücher - für Kinder und auch Erwachsene immer gut geeignet, um einige interessante Grundlagen bestimmter Persönlichkeiten kennenzulernen.,
Jedes Buch ist liebevoll gezeichnet und auch zusätzlich gut für Neulinge in Sachen Englisch sehr geeignet - leicht verständlich, was man nicht versteht kann man relativ schnell nachschlagen.
Bücher dieser Reihe habe ich selber schon verschenkt und diese kamen immer gut an! (Printbücher sind sehr gute Qualität und ich war erstaunt wie groß diese sind - Preise sind moderat)
Note: 1 mit vielen Plusszeichen davor
#netgalley #arc
(Es gibt sehr viele Bücher dieser Reihe, deshalb habe ich in diesem Falle eine einheitliche Rezi gewählt - was aber nichts damit zu tun hat, das mir dieses Buch nicht gefällt. Ich möchte halt nicht immer zuviel verraten, das macht ja nun ein Buch aus - erfahren und lernen)
February 6, 2025
The picture book Rosalind Franklin discusses the life of the chemist Rosalind Franklin. I was interested in seeing if this book would discuss her life and accomplishments in such a way that children would be able to understand it on their own. It did not. This book highlights the importance of women in science, having passions for passion's sake (instead of for recognition), and her inspiration to women today. These are great takeaways from this book, but it uses far too much academic language for a child to be able to fully comprehend it.
The illustrations are beautiful and the style makes it easily understandable. I just wish the word choices had been made more digestible.
I would recommend this book for older children. Children learning about Rosalind Franklin in 4th-6th grade. I would not recommend this for anyone younger than that and often children that age or older do not like reading picture books anymore.
The illustrations are beautiful and the style makes it easily understandable. I just wish the word choices had been made more digestible.
I would recommend this book for older children. Children learning about Rosalind Franklin in 4th-6th grade. I would not recommend this for anyone younger than that and often children that age or older do not like reading picture books anymore.
July 28, 2021
Young (future) scientists will surely be inspired by this story about Rosalind Franklin. What becomes clear in reading this title is that Rosalind was not only a good chemist but also a good person. She believed in helping others. While Rosalind did not always get the credit that she deserved for her pioneering work, she took pride in what she accomplished. Her discoveries around DNA were seminal. Rosalind Franklin ranks right up there with the most preeminent female scientists. She was a trailblazer at a time when there were few females studying chemistry.
This is another excellent entry in the Little People, Big Dreams series. The illustrations enhance the text and are engaging.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
This is another excellent entry in the Little People, Big Dreams series. The illustrations enhance the text and are engaging.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2021
I knew about Rosalind Franklin, not because she is taught about in school, but because Kate Beaton did a cartoon about her, and how she never won the Noble Prize, while her colleagues did. It made me curious about her, so I read a little more about her. This book is just about as much as one needs to spark interest, the same way the cartoon did.
Very clear timeline of what happened, and the back of the book gives a brief bio as well.
As always this series is great for the knowns and unknowns out there, and is a good resource for kids to get them interested in people.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
Very clear timeline of what happened, and the back of the book gives a brief bio as well.
As always this series is great for the knowns and unknowns out there, and is a good resource for kids to get them interested in people.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
August 9, 2021
***E-ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review***
This is my second book from the “Little People, Big Dreams” series. I loved it and I’m planning to collect more from this series for my one year old daughter.
I think this book is a wonderful way to introduced iconic men and specially women to children. Take for example, the brilliant Rosalind Franklin and her great contribution to science!
The lovely illustrations is a good tool to engage the young ones. This book will also set as a good example to spark inspiration to their young minds.
I highly recommend this little gem of a book!
August 13, 2021
I have been an avid fan of Rosalind Franklin for most of my life and it is brilliant for children's literature to finally be featuring women who were forgotten by history and to be re-written as herstory.
The illustration were both vibrant and detailed to ensure the book would be perfect for a large age range of children. The details given to narrate the story given more information than normally supplied, even in non-fiction books.
I would love to include this book as a stimulus in a cross-curricular lesson, especially in the recognition for the conversation that Franklin was not recognised to have a Nobel prize and will never will as they are not given posthumously.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from #netgalley, thank you. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The illustration were both vibrant and detailed to ensure the book would be perfect for a large age range of children. The details given to narrate the story given more information than normally supplied, even in non-fiction books.
I would love to include this book as a stimulus in a cross-curricular lesson, especially in the recognition for the conversation that Franklin was not recognised to have a Nobel prize and will never will as they are not given posthumously.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from #netgalley, thank you. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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