David Bowie
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Pub Date May 7 2019 | Archive Date Jun 18 2019
Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens | Frances Lincoln Children's Books
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Description
As a child, young David lived with his family in a tiny house on an ordinary street, but he had a head full of songs and ideas. At school he loved music and dance, and he was inspired by his brother's rock and jazz records to pick up the saxophone and start writing his own songs.
After earning his stripes in some of the coolest bands in London, David splashed onto the solo scene. David knew that to be a star, he had to combine great songs with great performance, and so from that point on, he took on a range of shapeshifting personas, from Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke. But really, he was just being himself and expressing his art on the stage.
His songwriting talent and musical skill made him one of rock and roll's all-time greatest artists. 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 musician's life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling biography series for kids that explores the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
This empowering series of books offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardback 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!
Marketing Plan
Press campaign featuring entire LPBD series and ethos of “Little children with dreams become women and men with great vision” reflected in all materials
Styled blogger and media mailing of assorted LPBD titles to top 10 influencers and top 25 national media
Partner with major media on women’s history campaign: Teen Vogue (Elaine Welteroth, Rookie, Bustle, HuffPo)
Tie social media campaigns to important dates for all titles (birthdays, anniversaries, etc)
Partner with charitable organizations tied to each highlighted person (i.e. Dolly Parton’s foundation, Dollywood)
“I am _____” campaign
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, 4k instagram
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781786033321 |
| PRICE | $15.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 32 |
Average rating from 117 members
Featured Reviews
The style and text of this book aim at a very young age group (pre-school) who have probably not heard of David Bowie so far. But although it is a very short book, they get to know him fairly well. They even dedicate two pages to the reason why his eyes are 2 different colours (and I always thought he was born like that!)
Of course it is a very abridged version of his biography, but it might arouse interest to hear more about (and from) this great musician.
Thus it's a perfect gift by parents, aunt/uncle or even grandparents who want to spark the love for David Bowie in the youngsters. They should definitely also play Bowies music to the kid!
Only the price is a bit high, a tenner would be my limit for this short book I guess.
Laura B, Librarian
David Bowie wasn't perfect, but I liked that this book really shows how unique and true to himself he was. I think that is a valuable message for kids.
Olga F, Reviewer
This was my first "Little People, BIG DREAMS" book and what a treat it was! Beautifully illustrated, easy to read and a joy to behold - I absolutely recommend to get a printed hardback! A treat for a child (or an adult - especially a Bowie fan!).
'Dare to be different'. The story of David Bowie,the iconic star, truly deserved to be narrated in a Little Book.
I loved the illustrations and the episodes of David's life were perfectly chosen.
A great treat for the little ones (but also the big ones!).
Thanks for granting to the publisher for granting my wish.
I received this book in exchange of an honest review.
La C, Reviewer
The books in this series have been hit or miss (mostly miss) for me, but this one is up there among some of the better ones I've read. It talks about David's early life, his passions for music, art, and performing, and even how he ended up with his distinctive eyes.
The main weakness this book has is its insistence on remaining vague. For example, it refers to "Space Oddity" in the main narrative as simply "a song about a lonely astronaut". It's a famous song! Could its name not have been mentioned in the main text?
The illustrations here aren't my favourite, and there's one confusing one where David's looking in a mirror and the wrong eye looks brown, but the rest of them help tell the story of this performer's life quite well. There aren't any obvious anachronisms, either (as there are in some of the other series titles).
Overall, this appears to be one of the stronger books in the series. I'd recommend this one to those looking for a simple biography of this legendary star.
Samantha L, Reviewer
I’m a huge David Bowie fan so let’s face it there’s no way I wasn’t going to love this book. Thank you to the publisher for granting my wish. :)
Richard L, Reviewer
David Bowie is not a name I you would have thought of to add to this Little People, Big Dreams series. Having read it now, and comparing it with some of these books already reviewed, this iconic Rock superstar deserves his story to be shared. My initial reluctance to absorb his hype is perhaps due to him being part of my growing up and musical appreciation.
Bowie's ordinariness is the first aspect of his life that grabs your attention. Thereafter, it is his drive, his desire to be the complete performer in terms of music, design and personality. At a time when everyone was emerging from known musical roots; he made deliberate changes to his sound and image.
The key to the success of these books are the lack of words; potted facts are shared and gloriously enhanced by simple but detailed illustrations. The words shared are well chosen, as they build a clear picture and promote an intimacy with each subject.
Bowie's music came to be played when the first moon landing happened and his lyrics have fashioned cult TV detective shows in the U.K. He deserves this short biography and hopefully it will enable family conversations around pop culture and find Bowie's unique sound.
As a fan of David Bowie I was so excited to read the newest installment in this excellent series. This book was handled really well, shares great information and bestows all of the dignity that the "Thin White Duke" deserves. Thank you for the smiles and a few tears!
Thank you to Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books, and NetGalley for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Reviewer 495408
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.
I like David Bowie's music quite a lot and this little book is perfect for the singer's fans who want to introduce him to little ones. But I think it's also quite enjoyable for people who aren't really into his music. This book can teach children that there's nothing wrong with being different and that it should be something that's celebrated and shown with pride. It can teach to never be afraid to be who we truly are. I think it's a very good lesson, for adults and children alike.
Daniela T, Reviewer
This is a sweet little book perfect for introducing Bowie to children. Bowie is one of my favorite artists, and he definitely deserved this homage. I'm not going to lie, it made me tear up a bit.
This book shares some interesting facts about David Bowie, and some I had never heard before. The book has a theme that runs through it, encouraging individuality. It could appeal to young readers with an interest in music, dance or David Bowie in particular.
Reviewer 531923
Another great title in the 'Little people, big dreams series'. Beautiful stylish illustrations go really well with Isabel Vegara's trademark conscise, accessible and inspiring text that introduces children to the life of this amazing artist. Great message of not being afraid to be yourself even if others might be trying hard to classify or pigeonhole you .
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group/ Frances Lincoln Children's books for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Sascha D, Reviewer
While this children’s book, David Bowie (Little People, BIG DREAMS), written by Isabel Sanchez Vegara and illustrated by Ana Albero, is short, it is big on message, and rightly so as the subject is David Bowie.
This brightly colored biography tells about David Bowie’s dreams and how he intended to do big things and his attraction to music. The wonderful message is that not only should you follow your dreams but be yourself as you do so.
I think this would be a great read for children who will learn about Bowie and may also feel inspired to follow their own big dreams.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pamela G, Librarian
I received an electronic ARC from Quarto Publishing Group through NetGalley.
Part of the Little People, BIG DREAMS series.
Vegara highlights Bowie's childhood and first ventures in the musical field. She then shares his musical philosophy and styles so readers see how he continued to reinvent himself and his craft.
Informative text and timeline included at the end of the book.
The illustrations are understated and bring aspects of Bowie's personality to life.
This series is a terrific first biographies series for elementary readers.
I absolutely adored this book. I am a school teacher and thought the content, pictures, and story would be perfect for any class level. This book could be used for so many different lessons to teach children about music, different types of people, places, and art work. A simple, well-written book. Just amazing.
Montzalee W, Reviewer
David Bowie by Isabel Sanchez Vegara is a book I requested from NetGalley and the review is voluntary. I think this is a great book for kids to show them that they can be themselves! It tells of Bowie as a child growing up and his interests then. It follows his story to stardom! I am glad I grew up when I did to experience his music as it happened!
Bethany Y, Reviewer
This was a great little book about David Bowie. I'm a huge fan of his and I loved how Vegera touched on the different eras and styles of his life. The artwork was beautiful and really helped the argument that Vegera was making. This is a must for any David fan!
David Bowie is a new biography for young readers in the Little People, Big Dreams series. I've reviewed a number of these titles and they all manage to pack an impressive amount of detail in these little books in an age-appropriate and accessible manner.
Due out 2nd May 2019 from Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it'll 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 gentle and sweetly humorous illustrations were well done. I loved the series of pictures of Bowie through his different stage incarnations. The art by Ana Albero is appealing and colorful and supports the text very well. The illustrations are rich in small subtle details which bear a closer look (like the little green alien who appears in cameos throughout the book).
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. Bowie was an intelligent and important cultural icon.
Educator 429292
I thought this was an adorable book!
It would be a perfect shower gift for a baby whose parent is a Bowie fan.
The story is simple, focused on being comfortable with who you are, following your dreams—all that good inspirational stuff—and the accompanying illustrations are just the cutest.
David Bowie is an excellent and surprising singer to add to the Little People, BIG DREAMS series. A unique and enduring artist and fashion icon, Bowie has influenced generations with his example.
As in the other books in the series, Isabel Sanchez Vegara delivers a concise biography of the star appropriate for early readers while Ana Alberto’s illustrations capture Bowie’s wild style. As is fitting for a child of the sixties, the illustrations have a retro style evocative of the period.
The book praises his drive for success, his self-acceptance, and his ability to inspire others, leaving readers the message that being different should be celebrated. The references to outer space, aliens, and so forth combined with the inclusion of a cute alien on a few of the page spreads should be a fun theme for kids.
I do wish, however, that the book had been more specific in places. It names the friend (George) who hit him and gave him his signature eyes with two colors, but when his brother and the song “Space Oddity” are referenced, they are not specified. His wife, Iman, appears in a photograph but is not mentioned in the text by name or even referred to.
David Bowie adds to the diversity of profiles in the Little People, BIG DREAMS series and is a must for school and public and libraries as well as a wonderful addition to home libraries to teach children about an incredible artist and help develop empathy and acceptance.
I'm an adult Bowie admirer and I adored this. This book shows, in just a few pages and sentences, what made David Bowie so unique and special, not just as an artist, but as a human being in general.
For adult readers, this offers a very first, very basic glimpse into the world of Mr. Bowie. For children, it also delivers another strong message: Be who you want to be, don't be afraid to be yourself, dare to be different - the way David Bowie is presented as role model for pretty much everybody is wonderful. As are the most adorable drawings.
The book's condensed form, however, might also be perceived as its weakness, since it can only scratch on the surface on all things Bowie. But hey, dear reader, regard is as some kind of hors d'oeuvre to the banquet o'Bowie. There's so much more to feast on from here on onwards: book,. films, and, of course, music.
The gist: Adorable very first introduction that shows: one is never too young to have some Bowie in their lives :)
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Another lovely biography with very engaging illustrations. I like the emphasis on reinvention, self-belief and individuality.
Innovative talented musician that embraced change.Quick, appealing read that still packs in enough facts to be interesting.
Rachel S, Librarian
Stunning illustrations about a stunning person. I'm completely biased because I already love these books, and LOVE David Bowie. I plan on purchasing this as an upcoming baby shower gift for a Bowie loving friend!
The Little People, Big Dreams series shares the lives of extraordinary people through adorable, quirky illustrations and simple language. Each person represented has had an incredible impact on the world, but started life as a child with a dream.
And by never being afraid to be himself, little David became the most unique star who ever to Earth.
Well, that just says it all, doesn't it?
I love this new release under the "Little People, Big Dreams" banner. And what beautiful messages for children it holds. David Bowie is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, acclaimed by critics and musicians, particularly for his innovative work during the 1970s. His career was marked by reinvention and visual presentation, with his music and magnetic stagecraft having a significant impact on popular music. He was an absolute visionary and his death in 2016 was tragic.
Many people throughout the world, throughout time, have had major impacts on human rights, politics, education and medical research, but it is important that other influential people are represented too, particularly those in the arts, I feel. Music has the potential to speak to people in a very unique way, particularly those who are lonely and misunderstood. Bowie helped those people to find their voice and dare to be different, and it is important for something as worthwhile as that to be celebrated.
This wonderfully quirky and colourful book traces the early years of Bowie and all the experiences that made him who he was. It is a beautifully tender story with some lovely messages for children about friendship, forgiveness, expression, uniqueness, using your voice and believing in yourself no matter what. The illustrations are incredible and I absolutely adored it.
It would be a pleasure to share this book with my children. 5 very heartfelt stars.
I love the little people, Big dreams series.
Fast and informative reads, the perfect length with bright pictures that old and young alike will enjoy,
I found this one shorter than others I have read, but still very enjoyable.
Monica M, Reviewer
I think is a Cute illustrated book for kids, to let them know who was david bowie. Illustrations are bold and cute and the reading was easy, perfect for a kid between 3 and 8 years.
Rebekah L, Reviewer
David Bowie was never afraid to be who he truly was. Young people can definitely learn from this great installment to the Little People, Big Dreams collection. I am glad that, despite Bowie's death, children can experience his story and his music and be inspired by this great man.
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 one is about Davide Bowie, the most unique figure in the music world. He was never afraid to show his true colours and I think this is an important lesson to teach to little children. Being different is not wrong, and you should be proud to be who you are.
This is another outstanding children's book in the Little People, Big Dreams series! In a few brief pages with simple sentences, young readers learn about David Bowie's childhood interests and rise to stardom while being comfortable in his own skin and remaining true to himself.
An excellent introduction to Bowie with great illustrations!
Thanks to Frances Lincoln Children's Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Han H, Educator
David Bowie has always been my hero and it humbled me to discover that he is a hero to many children I’ve taught throughout the years.
It is his ability to embrace what often we try to hide that inspires us all; something which I believe is perfectly presented in this book.
It’s a perfect introduce to the man who fell to Earth and by far my favourite addition and one i’ll be buying for many people when it comes to birthdays.
5000 STARS! ALL THE STARS! PERFECT BOOK IS PERF AGH.
okay so to be fair I love David Bowie. A book could positively mention Bowie once and I'll love the whole thing, so imagine my utter Joy when there's a child's book of him!!! So perfect and such an amazing way to introduce children to him. I'd 100% buy this for my kid as a nice little introduction and then show them he was a real person and play his songs and movies.
The art was completely adorable and spot on and my hearttt. Ugh I loved this.
Reviewer 398624
A very cute way to teach children about David Bowie and other famous people. The illustrations are perfect.
Another triumph, I think the first in the series we have read that was a man. It was great to introduce the kids to someone within their lifetime, and they recognised him from the Labyrinth film!
Librarian 299542
I love this series, but this tome is particularly stellar. Perfect for introducing young readers to David Bowie.
I'mogén W, Reviewer
I have been wanting to read more muscian biographies and something like this makes it really accessible, fun and kid friendly. I like the concept of these type of books coming out of late, like the bedtime stories for rebel girls, this is reminding me of that.
I loved that at the back, it wrapped up basically what the book said but more in a straight forward, factual way.
I loved the colours and illustrations and wording of the text. It was a lovely quick snippet into the life of a legend, perfect for children to absorb (both in the vivid colours and the easy text), but I just wish it was longer. If it had been it would totally be something I'd consider collecting (I am still tempted but can't justify how short it is for the price, which still isn't as expensive as I had thought, but still something I'm processing).
This is another brilliant book shining a light on the career and life of a person who made a massive difference to the world.
David Bowie is represented from his childhood days to his last as a chameleon who defied what society expected of him as an artsit. He broke boundaries, he broke records and challenged what was understood by gender. He was unashamedly always himself, despite being made to feel like an outsider, he existed as an emblem for the disenfranchised, the misunderstood who found refuge in his music.
My 8 year old and I are bg fans of this series and look forward to whoever Quarto books focus on next!
She learnt a lot about his early years, and was able to contextualise the songs which have been in the background of her life with the man behind them.
Yes I cried reading it, he is still hugely missed and this book has distilled the essece of what made him him.
Laura M, Reviewer
As a love of David Bowie, I was beyond excited to read this story. He was such an inspirational person to so many people. Not just because of his music but because of what he stood for. He was absolutely and always himself. And he inspired people to be whoever they wanted to be. A point that this book gets across beautifully and in a very Bowie way.
This book, more than any the others I've read, feels true to who Bowie was as a person. It tells his story in a simple but understandable way. It manages to show the impact he had. It is a beautiful and charming book. The illustrations are quirky and a perfect accompaniment. This is exactly the kind of book that will keep any Bowie fan or any Bowie fan's child happy.
Athina S, Reviewer
This new addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series is one you should definitely buy for your little readers. It is very cute with beautiful illustrations and tells the story of David Bowie.
It is perfect for young readers and can offer children inspiring messages. The whole series is very empowering.
I wish this kind of books existed when I was a child.
I love this Little People, Big Dreams series! It is so nice to have a glimpse into what our heroes and icons were doing as children. They dreamed big dreams, but led normal lives - just like us. I loved reading the story of how David Bowie pushed boundaries and battled stereotypes about gender and performing and from a young age. Great story about being your true self!
Shari N, Librarian
Many musically inclined parents who grew up with David Bowie's music will be inclined to purchase this book to share with their children or grandchildren. The charming pictures and brief text manage to adequately highlight the singer's life and individual flair. I wish, however, that the author hadn't overdone the whole "cosmic" theme, as if David Bowie's career never went beyond the theme of his first hit. I think this is a great book for Bowie fans to share with their offspring, but doubt that some of the references will make much sense to children without an adult intermediary.
How absolutely truly wonderful, I'm going to buy this for my son. I have seen these online but never actually bought any in the series, this is going to change. Right now! Reading this has filled my heart with warmth and loveliness.
Donna M, Reviewer
This is another great book to add to the Little People, Big Dreams collection!
I love this series as they are perfect introductions to young people about some of the most famous and influential people from our past and present and are also a reminder about how these people have also changed our history.
5 stars from me for this one, very highly recommended and can't wait for my daughter to get involved in the series
I received this copy of David Bowie from a wish granted by Quarto Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
David Bowie has always been one of my favorites and in a very few pages this book does him justice. It's a fantastic intro to for kids into the world of a brilliant artist.
The illustrations are wonderfully charming.
David Bowie by Isabel Sanchez Vegara is another fantastic children's book in the Little People, Big Dreams series.
This one is about David Bowie's childhood, how he rose to rose to stardom t=in the music and film industry etc.
I found this little book full of easy to read, with great Illustrations throughout this small book.
Its one you should definitely buy for your little readers so they can learn about this wonderful Rock Star.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group/ Frances Lincoln Children's books for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
This book was another great addition to the Little People, Big dreams collection! David Bowie was a wonderful person for children to learn about as he believed in being himself and wasn't afraid of what other people thought of him. The art and illustrations brought the story beautifully to life.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an ARC of this book for an honest review. :)
Becka G, Reviewer
What a cute picture book about David Bowie.
This is great first timers into the world that is Bowie.
The illustrations are fun and there is just enough information to pique your interest into Bowie.
I wish it had been longer; I was sad to see it end so soon.
As a fan of Bowie I felt it could have had more detail.
Thank you NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for this DRC.
I have read a couple of books from the series 'Little People, Big Dreams and think they are the perfect read for both children and adults. This book focuses on David Bowie and gives a simple and easy-to-follow overview of his life as a musician and icon. The timeline at the back of the book is interesting and gives a little more detail about David's life, ideal for older readers. The illustrations complement the text perfectly and encapsulate David's unique personality. The message encourages readers to embrace their individuality and never be afraid or embarrassed of who you are. It's an incredibly important message, especially for children growing up in a world that is gradually becoming more accepting but where prejudice's are still widespread. This book takes a global idol and shows children that being different is nothing to be ashamed of. I loved this book and believe it holds a message that should be ingrained in children and adults alike.
Rogene C, Educator
An ambitious and beautifully organized and collected narrative and images to accompany them. A must for young children and young children's classrooms.
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