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In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Prince, one of the most iconic performers in music history.
From a young age, Prince was obsessed with music. Even though he couldn't read it, his talent--whether on piano, drums, guitar, or vocals--turned him into an icon. Combining funk, disco, soul, and almost every other genre out there, his songs are some of the best-loved all around the world. Prince knew that he didn't have to be like anyone else to be a star--and there was no one quite like Prince. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the music legend'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!
From a young age, Prince was obsessed with music. Even though he couldn't read it, his talent--whether on piano, drums, guitar, or vocals--turned him into an icon. Combining funk, disco, soul, and almost every other genre out there, his songs are some of the best-loved all around the world. Prince knew that he didn't have to be like anyone else to be a star--and there was no one quite like Prince. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the music legend'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!
36 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2021
6 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
185 books144 followersYou may find books from the "Little People BIG DREAMS" series on author page - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
February 17, 2021
4.5★
“Little Prince was the son of a piano player and a jazz singer. He was not born with a crown on his head, but he inherited his father’s stage name and the most amazing musical talent ever seen in Minneapolis.”
Limiting that to Minneapolis is certainly one of the great understatements of American musical history!
Prince on dad’s lap as the Prince Rogers Trio plays
He wasn’t allowed to touch his dad’s piano, but he not only touched it, he played songs while his sister Tyka danced. When his parents divorced and his mother remarried another music lover, she took him to see James Brown! He jumped up on stage to dance with the girls!
He was a student at the Minnesota Dance Theater and at 19 went to California. He recorded an album that he not only wrote, arranged, and sang, but also played all 27 instruments!
Prince playing many different instruments
He performed in high heels, unlike other performers then, and he had many female musicians in his bands.
“During his career, Prince included amazing female musicians in his bands: drummers, singers, keyboardists, and guitar players. These women became not just his close collaborators, but the inspiration for many of his songs.”
He starred in the film “Purple Rain”, named after his own song, and the soundtrack is still considered one of the best. There seemed to be nothing he couldn’t do musically, and when he changed his name to a symbol that couldn’t be pronounced, it represented the masculine and feminine sides in everyone.
Inspirations for The Artist Formerly Known as Prince
I was disappointed that the actual symbol, or glyph, was not reproduced in this book, so I went to find it. I also found a couple of interesting stories about how and why it was designed.
First, the BBC’s story: https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-361...
Then, some more detail: https://www.wired.com/2016/04/designe...
I realise this is not the sort of thing you’re looking for in a review of a book for little kids, but sometimes there are rabbit holes that cry out to be explored, and once I’ve found them, I feel compelled to share.
The books in this series always have some real photos and a short bio at the end, and I’m going to add a bit to give a sense of what is added.
“Like the many styles of music he experimented with, Prince was not one-dimensional: he also identified as both male and female, celebrating the qualities of both. Today, he is still compared to greats like Stevie Wonder: a rare composer who could perform at a professional level on virtually any instrument he was handed, including his characteristic falsetto voice. Leading by example, Prince’s determination to live honestly inspired more than two generations of musicians to experiment and find their own, authentic expression.”
Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto’s Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the preview copy.
“Little Prince was the son of a piano player and a jazz singer. He was not born with a crown on his head, but he inherited his father’s stage name and the most amazing musical talent ever seen in Minneapolis.”
Limiting that to Minneapolis is certainly one of the great understatements of American musical history!
Prince on dad’s lap as the Prince Rogers Trio plays
He wasn’t allowed to touch his dad’s piano, but he not only touched it, he played songs while his sister Tyka danced. When his parents divorced and his mother remarried another music lover, she took him to see James Brown! He jumped up on stage to dance with the girls!
He was a student at the Minnesota Dance Theater and at 19 went to California. He recorded an album that he not only wrote, arranged, and sang, but also played all 27 instruments!
Prince playing many different instruments
He performed in high heels, unlike other performers then, and he had many female musicians in his bands.
“During his career, Prince included amazing female musicians in his bands: drummers, singers, keyboardists, and guitar players. These women became not just his close collaborators, but the inspiration for many of his songs.”
He starred in the film “Purple Rain”, named after his own song, and the soundtrack is still considered one of the best. There seemed to be nothing he couldn’t do musically, and when he changed his name to a symbol that couldn’t be pronounced, it represented the masculine and feminine sides in everyone.
Inspirations for The Artist Formerly Known as Prince
I was disappointed that the actual symbol, or glyph, was not reproduced in this book, so I went to find it. I also found a couple of interesting stories about how and why it was designed.
First, the BBC’s story: https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-361...
Then, some more detail: https://www.wired.com/2016/04/designe...
I realise this is not the sort of thing you’re looking for in a review of a book for little kids, but sometimes there are rabbit holes that cry out to be explored, and once I’ve found them, I feel compelled to share.
The books in this series always have some real photos and a short bio at the end, and I’m going to add a bit to give a sense of what is added.
“Like the many styles of music he experimented with, Prince was not one-dimensional: he also identified as both male and female, celebrating the qualities of both. Today, he is still compared to greats like Stevie Wonder: a rare composer who could perform at a professional level on virtually any instrument he was handed, including his characteristic falsetto voice. Leading by example, Prince’s determination to live honestly inspired more than two generations of musicians to experiment and find their own, authentic expression.”
Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto’s Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the preview copy.
September 20, 2021
Prince bio for littl'uns, which I was also glad to read. Liked the playful illustrations (Purple Raindrops!) from Cachetejack.
Nothing Compares to U, original studio recording:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpGA0...
Nothing Compares to U, original studio recording:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpGA0...
May 10, 2024
Wonderful first book on Prince. One of my friends is really into him; we were actually a little concerned about him when Prince passed away. An inspirational look at an artist who refused to be defined by anyone - but defined an era with his many creative works and projects which still give so many so much pleasure.
November 12, 2020
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 all about Prince, a great singer that we all know. I loved reading about his childhood and then his stardom. He wasn't afraid to be himself and to do what he wanted and these are things we can also be inspired by.
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 all about Prince, a great singer that we all know. I loved reading about his childhood and then his stardom. He wasn't afraid to be himself and to do what he wanted and these are things we can also be inspired by.
December 10, 2020
If you're looking for a fun way to introduce your favourite musician to your young ones, grab Prince by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara! I absolutely love this series and have to keep sharing it, seriously!
I love this non-fiction, picture book series that introduces famous people to young readers. This book combines fantastic illustrations with a positive, family friendly story about Prince! It's a fun, quick read that will let you learn a few new things while enjoying non-fiction with your kiddos.
He was a young boy born to a musician, and he picked up his Father's stage name (I did not know that!). Eventually he becomes one of the world's most famous musicians with the coolest purple outfits around.
My only critique is that the illustrations in this book are less than a lot of the other books. The style was kinda goofy and too child-like for me. They're still okay, but some of the other books had better.
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
I love this non-fiction, picture book series that introduces famous people to young readers. This book combines fantastic illustrations with a positive, family friendly story about Prince! It's a fun, quick read that will let you learn a few new things while enjoying non-fiction with your kiddos.
He was a young boy born to a musician, and he picked up his Father's stage name (I did not know that!). Eventually he becomes one of the world's most famous musicians with the coolest purple outfits around.
My only critique is that the illustrations in this book are less than a lot of the other books. The style was kinda goofy and too child-like for me. They're still okay, but some of the other books had better.
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
January 18, 2021
The exceptional Little People, BIG DREAMS series prides itself on providing child-friendly biographies of renowned public figures and celebrities and in this, the fifty-fourth book in the series, we explore the life and times of R&B superstar Prince, one of the most prominent singer-songwriters to have ever lived, his life and times, and his astonishing legacy. Despite being one of the most famous and inspirational people on the planet having achieved incredible things, it's important to remember that he started life out in life as just a child with a dream. This potted biography runs from his birth, early years and the beginning of his love affair with music. It’s written in such an empowering fashion that gives children the message that they can achieve their dreams whatever they may be.
What's impressive is there is just enough here to enable a child to become curious yet not enough to overwhelm, and the colourful, fun illustrations complement the text perfectly. It's an educational and entertaining read that empowers young ones to pursue their dreams without limits and inspires children 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. Highly recommended.
What's impressive is there is just enough here to enable a child to become curious yet not enough to overwhelm, and the colourful, fun illustrations complement the text perfectly. It's an educational and entertaining read that empowers young ones to pursue their dreams without limits and inspires children 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. Highly recommended.
January 27, 2023
“Always cry for love, never cry for pain.”
Prince was an artist that always made my moods better. No matter the song, my mood was instantly lifted by his words and his amazing voice.
These Little People, Big Dreams books are so cute. They give just enough information to keep you interested and to find out more about the artist featured.
Prince was an artist that always made my moods better. No matter the song, my mood was instantly lifted by his words and his amazing voice.
These Little People, Big Dreams books are so cute. They give just enough information to keep you interested and to find out more about the artist featured.
December 5, 2020
What a lovely little book! As a big Prince fan, it was lovely to see his life explained in this way to reach a new generation and show his journey into music
Full of wonderfully colourful illustrations, it's a great look at the man behind the symbol! From his childhood to his introduction to music and how he made it big. I'd never seen this series of books before but I'm now interested to read more as I think they're such a great way of learning about important names in a variety of fields.
It's full of positive messages about working hard for your dreams and will be inspiring for littlies all over the world!!
Full of wonderfully colourful illustrations, it's a great look at the man behind the symbol! From his childhood to his introduction to music and how he made it big. I'd never seen this series of books before but I'm now interested to read more as I think they're such a great way of learning about important names in a variety of fields.
It's full of positive messages about working hard for your dreams and will be inspiring for littlies all over the world!!
November 21, 2020
Fun and very colorful picture book about the life of Prince!
Prince grew up as the son of two jazz musicians in Minneapolis, so he was exposed to music at an early age and developed a deep passion for it. He learned to play multiple instruments and loved the combination of music and dance. He went on to be a very successful and entertaining recording artist.
This book is a great introduction to the musician Prince for the littles. It is full of positive messages about following your dreams and supporting others in your life via your success. Highly recommend for music fans, young and old!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
Prince grew up as the son of two jazz musicians in Minneapolis, so he was exposed to music at an early age and developed a deep passion for it. He learned to play multiple instruments and loved the combination of music and dance. He went on to be a very successful and entertaining recording artist.
This book is a great introduction to the musician Prince for the littles. It is full of positive messages about following your dreams and supporting others in your life via your success. Highly recommend for music fans, young and old!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
November 17, 2020
Prince by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is the latest addition to the popular Little People, BIG DREAMS series. This time around, the spotlight is on Prince, the fascinating and iconic musician. Accompanied by colourful and quirky illustrations, we learn the story of Prince's individual path to superstardom. Readers of all ages will be drawn to this informative tribute to one of the world's most recognizable and eclectic entertainers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.
November 14, 2020
I really enjoy the Little People, Big Dreams series, and this was no exception - though it did feel a little less full than some of the others. I found the writing this time to be quite unrevealing - though I did value the more in-depth biography section at the end. That said, I again loved the illustration for this - particularly the copious use of purple! (As is only appropriate given the subject matter). The drawings were really vibrant and full of life.
Thank you to Quarto / Frances Lincoln and Netgalley for the ARC.
Thank you to Quarto / Frances Lincoln and Netgalley for the ARC.
November 29, 2020
This book was just terrific! I love the Little People, Big Dreams Series. This book about the fantastic artist, Prince was incredible. It gives us a glimpse into the life of someone unique. Prince loved to be himself, and mixed dance, music, composing, and songs into his Albums. He is an excellent example for children, but really all of us, to hear of his different ideas and how he used them to be a force of creativity. He wrote his first song at 7, his first album at 19 playing 27 instruments. His album titled Prince lead him to be a superstar. He reached for his dreams, saw the world as a big rainbow, and wanted to celebrate that. The pictures in this book are tremendous. Those bring the book to life. The colors and pictures are vibrant, so it is so easy to understand the beauty that Prince conveyed. I loved reading and looking at this book, but the more diverse stories children can read or hear, the larger their world. This book is perfect for that.
December 17, 2020
Part of the Little People, BIG DREAMS series. A wonderful biography of the legendary artist Prince. Loved how vibrant the colours are in this book and how it encourages little ones to dream big and dare to be different.
*Thanks to Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley for this Ebook in exchange for my honest review
*Thanks to Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley for this Ebook in exchange for my honest review
November 14, 2020
Review to be added to Amazon UK and US on 5th January 2021 - publication day!
I love the books in this series and always find something new in them, the focus of this book is the musician Prince!
In this book you get to read a little about his early life in the book and the influences that made him such a fantastic all round performer - this is the perfect little book to introduce Prince to younger children.
Lovely images and another great addition to the series - 5 stars from me for this one
I love the books in this series and always find something new in them, the focus of this book is the musician Prince!
In this book you get to read a little about his early life in the book and the influences that made him such a fantastic all round performer - this is the perfect little book to introduce Prince to younger children.
Lovely images and another great addition to the series - 5 stars from me for this one
November 13, 2020
This installment of the little people BIG DREAMS series is all about Prince, another person I knew of but nothing about, so it was nice to learn a few facts. Did you know that he inherited his father's stagename, for example?
The colours in this book are very vibrant, and fittingly, a lot of purple has been used. I guess it's the only way to go when talking about his artist.
What can I say? This one is another success that will bring much fun to little readers.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
The colours in this book are very vibrant, and fittingly, a lot of purple has been used. I guess it's the only way to go when talking about his artist.
What can I say? This one is another success that will bring much fun to little readers.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
January 6, 2021
Prince, Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara , Purple, Prince, Guitar, Man, Fabulous, Picture Books, Fame, Non-Fiction, Children's Books, I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
I loved Prince’s songs and while I did know several things about him, I was still very eager to try out this book. I have read several other books in the series (Dolly Parton, Maria Montessori, Vivienne Westwood, Coco Chanel (read this one in Dutch)) and they are all just so much fun to read.
This one tells us all about Prince, about his family, about what his first song was, and how he went on to become one of the biggest stars. I had tons of fun reading this book as I learned several new fun facts about him. I always love the writing style of the books, they are really engaging and make learning about someone fun!
Like all other books in this series (Little People Big Dreams) at the end of the book we get a timeline and some photographs of the person the book was about. Here we get some additional information about the person, in this case Prince. While a lot of it is condensed into the story, here we get the not-so-condensed-but-still-shortened information.
The art, on the one hand I like it. It is so vibrant and fun, on the other hand the people just looked a bit silly to me. Though I have to say the style did grow on me as I read on.
I would recommend this one to all who want to learn more about Prince or who are fan of him.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I loved Prince’s songs and while I did know several things about him, I was still very eager to try out this book. I have read several other books in the series (Dolly Parton, Maria Montessori, Vivienne Westwood, Coco Chanel (read this one in Dutch)) and they are all just so much fun to read.
This one tells us all about Prince, about his family, about what his first song was, and how he went on to become one of the biggest stars. I had tons of fun reading this book as I learned several new fun facts about him. I always love the writing style of the books, they are really engaging and make learning about someone fun!
Like all other books in this series (Little People Big Dreams) at the end of the book we get a timeline and some photographs of the person the book was about. Here we get some additional information about the person, in this case Prince. While a lot of it is condensed into the story, here we get the not-so-condensed-but-still-shortened information.
The art, on the one hand I like it. It is so vibrant and fun, on the other hand the people just looked a bit silly to me. Though I have to say the style did grow on me as I read on.
I would recommend this one to all who want to learn more about Prince or who are fan of him.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
October 8, 2021
Author: Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Illustrator: Cachetejack
Age Recommendation: Early Primary
Art Style: Almost exclusively in an orange, pink, purple, white and black palette.
Topic/ Theme: Performance, LGBTQ+, Biographic
Setting: America
Series: Little People, Big Dreams
For some stupid reason I never twigged that Prince legend that he was was an nb or possibly genderfluid. Though I'm not sure he identified as such per se, I knew of course his stage self was unwilling to stick to the binary or expectation but I didn't know that was true of the man himself. I am using he/him pronouns but only because that is consistent with the book. This is a fairly simplistic overview of what was undoubtedly a very complicated life. I appreciate that the time when he legally changed his name to a(n unpronounceable) symbol is included because that was a shrewd business, artistic and promotional move. It does it shows its themes well but I have only listed some of them. Prince was pure talent and this displays him in a great light. It's a great way to write about a man who had a troubled childhood. I can actually see some younger readers relating to part of that though.
Cachetejack has created such striking and potentially divisive illustrations for Prince. I won't deny they suit Prince as a performer. He was not for everyone occasionally confronting, never the same twice and always unexpected. I also won't deny that the colours work so well together in a well balanced avoiding what could have been an overwhelming mix of colour. But for those children with reading or learning difficulties, I think these illustrations may be a struggle due to the colours used. But parents, caregivers and educators will know best. Despite Prince's moniker of "The Purple One" purple is pleasingly not used to excess. As always I do appreciate the end pages... purple rain. The distinctive illustrations are what earns this its 5-star rating.
January 9, 2021
'Prince' by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara with art by CACHETEJACK is the 54th entry in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series.
When he was young, Prince was obsessed with music. His father was in a band, and Prince wasn't allowed to play his piano, but he did anyway. When he made his first album, he played all the instruments. He was always experimenting with music and trying to be inclusive in his choice of bandmates.
I love this series, and this is one of the better ones. Prince was such a larger than life character and is a perfect subject for this format, and the art explodes with color.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
When he was young, Prince was obsessed with music. His father was in a band, and Prince wasn't allowed to play his piano, but he did anyway. When he made his first album, he played all the instruments. He was always experimenting with music and trying to be inclusive in his choice of bandmates.
I love this series, and this is one of the better ones. Prince was such a larger than life character and is a perfect subject for this format, and the art explodes with color.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
January 10, 2024
I love this series of books: they condense the salient points of each subject's early life into a clear and concise narrative with style and grace. In this case, as ever, I learned much about Prince's life, and I particularly enjoyed its focus upon his championing of the female singers and musicians with whom he worked. I also loved its description of how he celebrated what he saw as the male and female aspects of himself, unashamed of enjoying the qualities of both, and encouraging his fans to embrace a life of colour and no limits.
As usual, the artwork for this book is charming; I'm sure that Prince himself would have loved it! The inclusion of a more in-depth biography at the back of the book is a useful addition.
As with the volumes on David Bowie and Dame Vivienne Westwood, it feels *odd* to see Prince immortalised like this in a children's picture book, but I also love it! A recommended read.
As usual, the artwork for this book is charming; I'm sure that Prince himself would have loved it! The inclusion of a more in-depth biography at the back of the book is a useful addition.
As with the volumes on David Bowie and Dame Vivienne Westwood, it feels *odd* to see Prince immortalised like this in a children's picture book, but I also love it! A recommended read.
March 28, 2021
It's a shame that more people don't realize Prince was non-binary/genderqueer (by definition, though he never specifically used either word to my knowledge). People refer to Prince only as a feminine man, or androgynous, so I wonder if and how that will change over time as genders outside the binary are more widely acknowledged. I also wonder how he identified internally, because I assume it could be different from what he felt comfortable saying publicly. ***For the ignorant folks who think non-binary identities and expression are made up by millennials, I hope they remember people like Prince and Bowie (and, you know, the plethora of genderqueer people that have been recognized in all different parts of the world for centuries).
November 14, 2022
Prince grew up in Minneapolis, the son of a musician. From a young age Prince was a gifted musician . He went on to become the most successful Singer/Musician ever to come out of Minneapolis. Prince had his own unique style. This book charts his success, the albums, the Purple Rain movie and more. Did you know that Prince can play 27 different musical instruments?
A lovely book from the Little People, Big Dreams book series full of lovely illustrations.
A lovely book from the Little People, Big Dreams book series full of lovely illustrations.
July 25, 2022
I never knew Prince was a dance student. But based on how he danced when I saw him in concert, I'm not surprised. This is an interesting and vibrant book, and the author points out that Prince gave many women a chance to be drummers, singers, keyboard players, and so on.
February 2, 2021
I might be biased because Prince is my mainest man but this is the best book in this cute series yet (and I read them all)! This book seemed a little longer than others and really focused on his accomplishments and how inclusive he was toward others. I did have slight issue with some characters being drawn with hot pink faces but overall a very cute introductory book for kids.
March 19, 2021
Full of information, this children’s book touched on pieces of Prince’s life from the time he was 4, until around the time he starred in the movie Batman. Prince had always been around music, so it’s no wonder he ended up on stage. Both of his parents were jazz musicians and by the time he was 19, he was in California creating his first album solo. Solo! He did everything to get the music on that album: the writing, composing, singing, and playing all of the 27 instruments!
Prince was Prince and he created his own rules and then, broke them when they needed to be. He was his own person. I liked that about him, he did what he wanted to do to make himself happy and it didn’t seem he was hurting anyone (the book didn’t go into any details on this). He loved what he was doing and everyone that was around him, loved him. I guess I didn’t realize that he created 1,000 songs, until I read this book.
This was my first Little People, Big Dreams book and I was interested to know what they were all about. I enjoyed the illustrations as color filled up every inch of every page and they were bright, exciting, colors. A majority of the illustrations weren’t tedious but provided enough information to give a good understand of what they were portraying. The text was informative, positive and covered a variety of areas of his career. At the back of this book, there was a two-page spread of Prince with 4 black-n-white photo’s and about a page narrative of his life. This information was almost identical to the information in the book but had a few more details in it. There are also a couple books listed if you wanted to know more about Prince.
This series is definitely worth checking out. On the final pages of this book, there is a list of all the books so far in this series, there were 55 books listed. From John Lennon, to Greta Thunberg, to Stephen Hawkins, to David Bowie, there are a lot of individuals on this list. These books aren’t going to be giving you a detailed account on these individuals lives but I feel they’ll be guiding you through the highlights of what these individuals accomplished or what made them stand out in their field.
Prince was Prince and he created his own rules and then, broke them when they needed to be. He was his own person. I liked that about him, he did what he wanted to do to make himself happy and it didn’t seem he was hurting anyone (the book didn’t go into any details on this). He loved what he was doing and everyone that was around him, loved him. I guess I didn’t realize that he created 1,000 songs, until I read this book.
This was my first Little People, Big Dreams book and I was interested to know what they were all about. I enjoyed the illustrations as color filled up every inch of every page and they were bright, exciting, colors. A majority of the illustrations weren’t tedious but provided enough information to give a good understand of what they were portraying. The text was informative, positive and covered a variety of areas of his career. At the back of this book, there was a two-page spread of Prince with 4 black-n-white photo’s and about a page narrative of his life. This information was almost identical to the information in the book but had a few more details in it. There are also a couple books listed if you wanted to know more about Prince.
This series is definitely worth checking out. On the final pages of this book, there is a list of all the books so far in this series, there were 55 books listed. From John Lennon, to Greta Thunberg, to Stephen Hawkins, to David Bowie, there are a lot of individuals on this list. These books aren’t going to be giving you a detailed account on these individuals lives but I feel they’ll be guiding you through the highlights of what these individuals accomplished or what made them stand out in their field.
December 19, 2020
Sometimes I wonder if I was born in the wrong decade. I love music but I seem to have missed out on growing up with so many fantastic musicians and performers, and Prince is certainly one of those. Despite being too young to really remember the work and performances of Prince I still love his music, hits like ‘Purple Rain’ and ‘Kiss’ just stand the test of time.
With a talented musician as a father it only seemed natural that Prince would inherit some form of musical gift. Prince loved music, loved to dance and loved to play his dad's piano despite not being allowed to. Whilst not loving school, he thrived at dance lessons where he could express himself and show off his own creativity. Prince could do it all - he could sing, he could dance, he could play instruments, he was the complete musical package and this made him a superstar.
He broke the rules and challenged musical stereotypes - he wore outrageous outfits including wearing high heels and did amazing things with his voice. He was one of the most colourful performers in pop and his music spanned musical genres where he would combine and mix sounds and styles to create incredible and original songs.
Delightfully illustrated with bright and bold artwork and with a story told in short and simple sentences, this is a very colourful read about the man who made a memorable mark on the musical industry. At the back of the the book there is a short overview of his life which includes key facts and dates and a historical timeline featuring photographs.
Prince was unique. A unique talent, a unique performer, a unique individual. This book is a celebration of that uniqueness and a reminder to us all to just be ourselves and to be the one who breaks the mould.
Recommended for 5+.
With thanks to Netgalley and Frances Lincoln Publishers for the ARC.
With a talented musician as a father it only seemed natural that Prince would inherit some form of musical gift. Prince loved music, loved to dance and loved to play his dad's piano despite not being allowed to. Whilst not loving school, he thrived at dance lessons where he could express himself and show off his own creativity. Prince could do it all - he could sing, he could dance, he could play instruments, he was the complete musical package and this made him a superstar.
He broke the rules and challenged musical stereotypes - he wore outrageous outfits including wearing high heels and did amazing things with his voice. He was one of the most colourful performers in pop and his music spanned musical genres where he would combine and mix sounds and styles to create incredible and original songs.
Delightfully illustrated with bright and bold artwork and with a story told in short and simple sentences, this is a very colourful read about the man who made a memorable mark on the musical industry. At the back of the the book there is a short overview of his life which includes key facts and dates and a historical timeline featuring photographs.
Prince was unique. A unique talent, a unique performer, a unique individual. This book is a celebration of that uniqueness and a reminder to us all to just be ourselves and to be the one who breaks the mould.
Recommended for 5+.
With thanks to Netgalley and Frances Lincoln Publishers for the ARC.
January 5, 2021
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Prince is a new biography 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 innovative icons while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail.
Due out 19th Jan 2021 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's be 32 pages and will be available in hardcover, and ebook formats.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's well written in clear accessible language. The whimsical and energetic illustrations were well done. The art by Cachetejack is appealing and colorful and supports the text well. The illustrations are bold and full of bright contrasting colors and simple lines, almost abstract, but still easy to identify.
Well written and appealing, I am really enjoying all of these little books. This one is a worthy addition. The author has included a timeline at the back of the book with some photos and highlights from Prince's life, as well as a very short bibliography including books to explore further.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Prince was an incredibly gifted and accomplished artist and this book is a nice tribute to an iconic entertainer.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
Prince is a new biography 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 innovative icons while maintaining an age-appropriate level of detail.
Due out 19th Jan 2021 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's be 32 pages and will be available in hardcover, and ebook formats.
Written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara it's well written in clear accessible language. The whimsical and energetic illustrations were well done. The art by Cachetejack is appealing and colorful and supports the text well. The illustrations are bold and full of bright contrasting colors and simple lines, almost abstract, but still easy to identify.
Well written and appealing, I am really enjoying all of these little books. This one is a worthy addition. The author has included a timeline at the back of the book with some photos and highlights from Prince's life, as well as a very short bibliography including books to explore further.
Five stars. This would make a superlative reading circle book, classroom library book, or gift. Prince was an incredibly gifted and accomplished artist and this book is a nice tribute to an iconic entertainer.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
March 12, 2021
Prince is book in the Little People, Big Dreams series and is a children's picture book written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara and illustrated by Cachetejack. It is a cursory biography of Prince from his humble beginnings being obsessed with music in all forms to becoming an icon of the music industry.
Prince Rogers Nelson was an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, dancer, actor, and director. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of his generation. Considered a guitar virtuoso, he was well known for his eclectic work across multiple genres, flamboyant and androgynous persona, and wide vocal range which included a far-reaching falsetto and high-pitched screams.
Vegara's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. It starts off with a young Prince who loved music in all forms – playing many instruments and combing many genres of music to make a unique sound of his own, which some regard him as one of the greatest musician of his generation. Backmatter includes a concise and informative biography timeline of Prince's life. Cachetejack's illustrations are drawn well, albeit a tad simplistic, but depicted the narrative rather well and apropos to the target audience.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. It depicts Prince's childhood, his love for music, learning and playing instruments like the piano, drums, guitar or vocals. Combining funk, disco, soul and almost every other genre out there, his songs are some of the best-loved all around the world, which made him into a music icon.
All in all, Prince is a wonderful biography of a music icon, who followed his dreamed and worked hard to achieve it.
Prince Rogers Nelson was an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, dancer, actor, and director. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of his generation. Considered a guitar virtuoso, he was well known for his eclectic work across multiple genres, flamboyant and androgynous persona, and wide vocal range which included a far-reaching falsetto and high-pitched screams.
Vegara's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. It starts off with a young Prince who loved music in all forms – playing many instruments and combing many genres of music to make a unique sound of his own, which some regard him as one of the greatest musician of his generation. Backmatter includes a concise and informative biography timeline of Prince's life. Cachetejack's illustrations are drawn well, albeit a tad simplistic, but depicted the narrative rather well and apropos to the target audience.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. It depicts Prince's childhood, his love for music, learning and playing instruments like the piano, drums, guitar or vocals. Combining funk, disco, soul and almost every other genre out there, his songs are some of the best-loved all around the world, which made him into a music icon.
All in all, Prince is a wonderful biography of a music icon, who followed his dreamed and worked hard to achieve it.
January 3, 2021
Prince 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 Prince's life. He was obsessed with music. Even though he couldn’t read it, his talent – whether on piano, drums, guitar or vocals – turned him into an famous icon. He Combined funk, disco, soul and almost every other genre out there, his songs are some of the best-loved all around the world. Prince knew that he didn’t have to be like anyone else to be a star – and there was no one quite like Prince. I just loved all his music and is played a lot in my house - out loud!
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 this wonderful Rock Star.
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 Prince's life. He was obsessed with music. Even though he couldn’t read it, his talent – whether on piano, drums, guitar or vocals – turned him into an famous icon. He Combined funk, disco, soul and almost every other genre out there, his songs are some of the best-loved all around the world. Prince knew that he didn’t have to be like anyone else to be a star – and there was no one quite like Prince. I just loved all his music and is played a lot in my house - out loud!
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 this wonderful Rock Star.
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.
October 26, 2022
#Prince
... mir war immer schleierhaft, wie man diesen Musiker mögen konnte - ich fand ihn schrecklich, wußte auch nicht allzuviel von ihm - seine Musik trifft auch nicht meinen Geschmack (außer ein par Lieder) - aber auch hier gilt: meine Meinung zu dem Mensch ist nicht gefragt: es geht um das Buch und dieses ist sehr lesenswert!
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)
... mir war immer schleierhaft, wie man diesen Musiker mögen konnte - ich fand ihn schrecklich, wußte auch nicht allzuviel von ihm - seine Musik trifft auch nicht meinen Geschmack (außer ein par Lieder) - aber auch hier gilt: meine Meinung zu dem Mensch ist nicht gefragt: es geht um das Buch und dieses ist sehr lesenswert!
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)
November 12, 2020
A book that is perhaps the most purple one you'll have seen – and rightly so. This short little tribute is in the series designed to inspire the idea in the young that anyone can become anyone, and that everything is possible with hard work, inspiration and a prevailing wind. So here is Prince Rogers Nelson, becoming a virtuoso musician at a young age (presenting his first album when he was still just a teenager, having played every note on it, with the help of 27 instruments), and becoming a film star and global icon as well. So no, we don't get his ignominious end, the dreary welter of songs he churned out for years before that which entertained few beyond a circle of hardcore collectors, or anything else more realistic, but I cannot pretend Prince at his prime was not a person for us all to want to aspire to. The book does rather go down a hole of wokeness, pretending he was a hermaphrodite (that symbol was not just the gender signs, you know, so it had little to do with him being non-binary (which is highly debatable)), but it succeeds in earning its place alongside the majority of this series on school shelves.
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