Usain Bolt

I really enjoy this series and love learning new things about the people who I have followed growing up. I think it shows an important message that even when Bolt was injured he came back fighting. Lovely clear illustration. I’ll definitely be adding this to my hardback collection!

Another great addition to this series, telling the story of Usain Bolt and how he moved from playing cricket to being the fastest man.
Lovely illustrations to share inspirational people with children.

I love nonfiction children's books, and this book did not disappoint! I read it to my 3 and 5 year old boys, and we all enjoyed it. I think every little boy dreams of being "as fast as lightning." This book would be perfect for ages 3-9.

It was very interesting to learn about Usain's childhood in Jamaica and how his true passion was cricket, not running. I loved that this book teaches kids that natural talent can only get you so far. You still have to work hard and tirelessly if you want to be the best at something. The illustrations are colorful and fitting for the story. I also loved the ending, where older children and adults can learn more about Usain's life and see pictures from his impressive running career.

I look forward to reading many more books from this series!

I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a cute an educational book about one of the world's greatest track stars, Usain Bolt. I learned something pretty cool from this book, that Bolt actually preferred playing cricket and that he basically had to be convinced to join the track team! There were so many great facts in this book and its written in a way that even a small child could understand and retain.

I love these kinds of books. I am definitely going to purchase a copy of this book for my toddler.

We volunteered to read an ARC of this book through NetGalley.

This is a fun children's book discussing the story of the sprinter, Usain Bolt. The illustrations are very cute and eye-catching. I think children will absolutely enjoy this book and learn something about this remarkable athlete.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

This wonderful book shared Usain Bolt’s story making it fun and informative. Easy to read. Great graphics. Fun read!
Thank you Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book.

I'm an elementary teacher and I love this series. Little People Big Dreams gives children influential, positive individuals to read and learn about like Usain Bolt. This book is well written and gives a nice glimpse into the life of the fastest man on the planet. Thanks NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this ARC.

In 1986 in Jamaica, a little boy was born with a competitive spirit. His parents named him Usain St. Leo Bolt.

He loved playing cricket and was motivated by food from a young age. His high school coach saw promise in his athletic abilities and encouraged him to build on his strengths. In fact, Usain was given his first pair of running shoes by his school!

The path to Olympic gold medals was not an easy one. Usain struggled with nerves so much that he once put his shoes on the wrong feet. He also had many limitations and health issues, but Usain chose to see them as challenges to overcome rather than reasons to quit. The most difficult lesson he learned had to do with his attitude. Usain thought his talent could carry him farther than training. His laziness taught him a valuable lesson.

We may know him as “Lightning Bolt” and an 8-time Olympic gold medal winner, but Usain didn’t start out with a dream to be a track star and had many hurdles to overcome in his journey to success.

This book carries a wonderful message and reminds children that anything worthwhile takes dedication and effort as well as a winning mindset.

I was gifted this copy by Quarto Publishing Group, Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

I love this series!! This mini biography of Usain Bolt is the perfect addition! I love how it highlights his overcoming of obstacles and shows the value in perseverance and hard work. I didn’t know he had scoliosis, but that makes his feats even more impressive.

Thank you to Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Quarto Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this beautiful book!

Another amazing book in the 'Little People, Big Dreams' series. Great illustrations, love the story about Usain Bolt, and great for kids to learn about a special athlete.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this book in exchange for my review! All opinions are my own.

I enjoyed this book because I remember watching Usain Bolt running on the TV. Usain Bolt is a very interesting person and I think children will enjoy learning about him. I also really enjoyed the illustrations.

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I absolutely love the Little People, Big Dreams series and this was no exception. I enjoyed the writing style and liked how the author weaved in life lessons about the power of hard work and determination. The illustrations were beautiful and really enhanced the story. I love that these books contain a summary at the end which is aimed at older readers and recommendations are given for extra reading.

Overall I love the Little People, Big Dreams series and this might be one of my favourites as I remember watching Usain Bolt run when I was younger!

I love this series. Even very young readers can learn about interesting people like Usain Bolt and his amazing accomplishments. It's amazing how he overcame scoliosis to win several gold medals and support programs for other young athletes. I didn't know that he became a music producer after retiring from sports. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this

A great book about Usain Bolt.. Was able to get the facts about him and follow along with the colourful pictures.
My son also looked and read the book.

As a family, we love to read Little People, Big Dreams. This is no exception. It was fascinating to learn about Usain Bolt, from his childhood to becoming a world class Olympian. 10/10

Having now read quite a few Little People, Big Dreams books, this was definitely a favourite. Usain Bolt is a great role model to many youngsters and his popularity will encourage many to pick up this book.
The story is really well written and incredibly informative, teaching me many things I didn't know about Usain. It also includes many lessons which are valuable to young people about determination, overcoming adversity and never giving up despite failure. The illustrations are fantastic as always to bring the story to life.
My little girl has already requested we pre-order this book! I would love to see more sports stars featured in the Little People, Big Dreams series - hopefully more will follow!

Little People, Big Dreams does an amazing job of telling the story of Usian Bolt. I had no idea he originally was into cricket and didn't even want to run. A great story about how practice can change your life. Perfect for readers of all ages who want to know more about this amazing sprinter.

This made me tear up! I never knew he had scoliosis - his adjusting to that condition makes him even more relatable for kids with physical disabilities. His post-career community work makes him a true role model. Definitely a book worth giving to kids and buying for libraries.

This is a great addition to this series, with wonderfully colorful artwork that complements the story of one of the most famous athletes in the world. This is a perfect read for little track-stars-t0-be, especially in an Olympic year!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

The "Little People, BIG DREAMS" series, known for bringing the stories of inspirational figures to young readers, adds another remarkable biography to its collection with the life of Usain Bolt. This book not only highlights Bolt's journey from a young cricketeer and sprinter in a rural Jamaican town to becoming the fastest man in the world but also encapsulates the spirit of perseverance and dedication.

What makes this book stand out in the series is its ability to connect with children by presenting Usain Bolt's story as one of dreams, challenges, and triumphs. It is a tale that resonates deeply with the series' ethos of showing how every big dream begins with a dreamer. Bolt's early recognition for his speed, his breathtaking achievements at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and his world record-setting performance in 2009 are narrated in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers. The book does an excellent job of conveying that Bolt's path to success was not without obstacles, emphasizing the importance of resilience and hard work.

The "Little People, BIG DREAMS" series is laudable for its diverse range of subjects, and the addition of Usain Bolt enriches this collection by introducing children to the world of sports and athletics. The narrative encourages readers that any dream is achievable with dedication, a powerful message that aligns perfectly with the series' goal of inspiring the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world.

The book's illustrations and design are likely as captivating as its narrative, adhering to the series' characteristic style that combines simplicity with visual appeal. This combination of storytelling and art makes Usain Bolt's biography not just a reading experience but an immersive journey into the life of a global sports icon.

The "Little People, BIG DREAMS" series offers a variety of formats to cater to different age groups, from board books for toddlers to more detailed stories for older children. This adaptability ensures that Usain Bolt's inspiring story can reach and resonate with a broad audience. The inclusion of activity books and journals further extends the learning experience, allowing children to explore their dreams and how they might achieve them.

The biography of Usain Bolt within the "Little People, BIG DREAMS" series is a splendid addition that continues the tradition of inspiring children through the stories of individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields. It teaches young readers about the values of perseverance, dedication, and the belief that dreams, no matter how big, can be achieved. This book is not just a story about a sports legend; it is a motivational tool that encourages children to dream big and work hard, making it a valuable addition to any child's library.

"Believe in your dreams and anything is possible!" This is one of Usain's famous motto or quotes. He practise this through out life.

I enjoyed reading Usain's story from his childhood too his Olympic successes. His story will inspire many children out there who may be serious about pursuing sports. You will learn what his first love in sport was (not running). Kids will also learn that natural talent is a gift but you also need to put in the work to keep and improve on the talent.

Usain Bolt is well written and beautifully illustrated to draw and keep children attention. I can't wait to purchase this for my kids.

The story of Usain Bolt shows children the importance of hard work in becoming successful. Usain not only achieved so much in the athletic world, but made a difference in the lives of the children he inspired.

I really love these little books which provide a lovely history of some well known clubs.

Beautifully illustrated the book also provides actual photos and a timeliness of key events within the individual's life

Usain Bolt joins the phenomenon of books by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and is a fantastic addition to the Little People Big Dreams series.
The books are particularly relatable to my class if the featured person is still alive- they seem to enjoy them more as it gives them a purpose to research and find out more about them.
The words that accompany the fantastic illustrations by Karen Crosbie are simple for even the youngest independent reader to understand. The text details how Usain found that he could run incredibly quickly when he was in his teen years and how quickly he achieved some fantastic world records.
The story continues with a timeline at the rear of the book that gives further in-depth information about Bolt's life to date.

I always enjoy reading the Little People, Big Dreams series of books. I find that I usually learn something about the character that the book is focused on while I'm reading and feel that the younger audience these books are geared toward will also learn something too. Usain Bolt is a great example of talent mixed with perseverance and dedication. I thought the story really leaned in to those themes to teach younger kids that it's important to work for what you want and to keep going to achieve your goals. There's also a great theme highlighted of giving back to your community and helping others achieve their goals as well.

I think Usain Bolt is a great addition to the LP, BD series and highlighting his accomplishments on the track as well as off provides a well-rounded picture of who he is beyond just the name recognition that came with his later racing career. I also really enjoyed the illustrations. They're well matched with the story and really help to illustrate what is being written about. Plus they are colorful and engaging to look at. Overall, a great addition to the collection. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC to read and review!

As always - Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara did amazing with this book - the illustrations, the facts, truly everything. I also love that she has a wide range of people she writes these books about - singers and athletes, back and white, female and male, truly everyone can find somethimg for themselves to be represented in.

I got this on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!

I love this series so much, and this was no different! I learned so much about Usain Bolt, and love the division this does between his childhood, his growth, and his various accomplishments! The illustrations are also so great, and love how much the Jamaican flag is included (as it should!)

Would definitely recommend this to anyone who is into sports and athletes!

You can't beat these sweet, bite-sized biographies. The graphics are excellent and there's just enough content that readers of all ages can learn something without getting too in-depth. The ending has a nice timeline and some real-life photos. Those who are interested in learning more can use that to help with follow-up.

Thank you NetGalley & the publisher for the ARC.

Usain lived in Jamaica with his family and went to school there where he went from soccer player to Olympic trainee. In time he became a record-breaking sprinter. When he retired from activities in the Olympics, he formed a foundation for giving back to the school athletic programs in his homeland.
The illustrations by Karen Crosbie are fun, simple, brilliantly colorful, and delightful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Quarto Publishing Group/Frances Lincoln Children's Books via NetGalley. Thank you! Expected publication 04 Jun 2024
@QuartoKids @CBCBook @Frances_Lincoln #LittlePeopleBIG DREAMS @sanchezvegara @TheQuartoGroup @kazillustrates #Jamaica

I know I keep saying it, but I love this series! Truly one of the best kids series out there, and it's equally enjoyable for adults. I always learn something new, and this is such an inspiring, captivating story for children.

Usain Bolt by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vergara is a great, age appropriate way for children to learn about Usain Bolt. I love how this book not only talks about his achievements, but also qualities that helped him achieve them like discipline. I love the entire series of Little People Big Dreams. I would have a whole library of these books for a small child. They teach children about public figures, but also go into other important qualities like being a friend, generous and helping. The illustrations are great too!

Another great addition to this collection of books. I loved the vibrant, colourful illustrations and I also really liked the inclusion of setbacks such Bolt's injury at the 2004 Olympics to show the importance of resilience. A wonderful book.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

With thanks to Netgalley for this copy.

Bright and colourful illustrations paired with engaging, easy to understand information. A great child friendly introduction to a great athlete.

Thank you Netgalley for advanced copy in exchange for review.

This book was really cute. Gave all the important facts about Bolt's accomplishments as well as provide information on how he got into track.

This is another excellent book in the series. The illustrations are really lovely and go well with the writing. It was really interesting to read more about Bolt and his life. I didn’t know a lot of it before. I thought that the illustration with his shoelace undone was great and liked the picture with him and others doing his well know pose was really good too.

Another book in a long, long line of spectacular biographies by Maria.
She has a unique skill of making a person's life interesting to children.

I just love this series! Little People, Big Dreams delivers with another vibrantly illustrated story of Usain Bolt. We have so many students who compete in track and field at our school who I know would love to read this book and see how Usain didn’t give up and how his training and discipline led to his success! Definitely adding this one to my classroom library!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Received for review: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Why did I decide to turn the pages? I love this series. Most of the books are very informative, and I love the diverse representation in the series. So when I was given the chance to review it, I took it.

My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I loved the illustrations in this one. I also loved the focus on Usain's background and what he did after he retired. The book also focused on needing to work hard for your dreams and not just rely on natural talent, which I liked. There were a few minor things I thought could have been better, but overall, I enjoyed this one.

Pages: 32

Reading age: 4-7 years of age.

Love,

Danica Page

"Usain Bolt" by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is a compelling addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series. With charming illustrations and accessible language, young readers are introduced to the incredible journey of Usain Bolt, the fastest man on earth. This book not only celebrates Bolt's remarkable athletic achievements but also highlights his determination, hard work, and positive mindset. Through Bolt's story, children are inspired to chase their dreams and never give up, no matter the obstacles they may face. Sanchez Vegara's narrative and engaging artwork make Bolt's story accessible and captivating for children of all ages. "Usain Bolt" is a wonderful addition to any child's library, offering both entertainment and valuable life lessons.

As with the rest of the Little People Big Dreams series, this book did not disappoint.

I read this book with my children, the story kept their attention and prompted them to ask questions.

The narrative was simple yet provided enough detail for children to gain a good insight into the life of Usain Bolt.

The artwork is beautifully done, colourful and in keeping with the rest of the series.

Another enjoyable book which will definitely be added to the collection once published

Another installment in the fabulous Little People Big Dreams series sees the life of Usain Bolt told and illustrated for a young audience. Beautiful artwork alongside text perfectly pitched at the target age range as usual.

I particularly liked how the book focused on never giving up - after a medical diagnosis, Bolt continued to work hard and achieved his dreams.

This is such a successful series of mini biographies, Little People, Big Dreams with inspiring stories of lives that can lift our young children’s imaginations.

You might think they’d be a shortage of new subjects to take the books forward. You might think that celebrity has become the focus as sports stars and pop idols fill the pages.

I wondered if this was happening when I picked up Usain Bolt a charismatic sprinter and Olympic gold medalist across three games.

When I read his story I saw how quickly adults might judge where children absorb simple aspects and find encouragement.

Usain loved sport and found joy and reward in running. The prompting of a coach and the support his school set him on his way. However the young athlete had some hard lessons to learn to find ultimate success and personal medical issues.

Simple text and vivid, colourful illustrations complete the piece and are the hallmark of these unique books.

I have learned about Usain Bolt and my grandson has further been influenced reading this story along with me.

The measure of a human being perhaps is how someone deals with their fame and success. The foundations and resources he has established in his home island of Jamaica are a credit to him and a true measure of the man.

This story had a nice message that humility is also important to reach your potential. Its good to believe in yourself, but also use the help of others to train and be your very best.

A great child-friendly synopsis of Usain Bolt's career including a great lesson about discipline and not forgetting where you came from.

Usain Bolt 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.

Growing up in a rural town in Jamaica, Usain was a standout cricketeer and sprinter from a young age. His speed was noticed by coaches, and by the age of 14, he wowed fans with his lightning speed. He took the world by storm at the 2008 Beijing Olympics when he broke numerous records and he became the fastest man ever at the World Championships in 2009 with a time of 9.58 seconds. Despite the pressure and even a few off-days, Usain continued to be monumental in his achievements. Usain's story teaches us that any dream is achievable if you put your mind to it, regardless of what others may say.

I found this little book full of easy to read, with great Illustrations throughout this small book.

A wonderful read and so colourful.

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 is an inspiring book and my daughters enjoyed reading this. In their words, "we learnt that your only competition is yourself".

We love these books in our house. They are a great way to introduce your little ones to important and/or famous people without being too big or in depth. I learned a lot I didn’t know about this athlete!

Comics are the best way to make children learn on anything, be it current affairs, Popular figures, social issues, moral responsibilities, etc. I really liked the way this picture book cast. I have already Maria before and her style of presenting the persona of celebs is quite appreciable, however, if the said celebs themselves are fake in their social lives then one can't say anything (remembering from reading on Vanessa Nakate).
Here about reading 'The Lightening Bolt' of athletics, Usain Bolt was so amazing as I have seen him running on TV while watching Olympics. I myself never lost any 100-meter and 200-meter races in my school-time though nowhere near him, but somewhere I can feel the connect ever since that period, as we are of nearly same age. Watching him running always gave goosebumps. His first record set made people believe that he will win in future always.

Never knew his humanitarian side of work for needy talents in Jamaica. His aura in athletics is appraising. Reading this to children or let them have it themselves surely inspire them to work on their very own talent, as God never send anyone down here on earth without any special power. We only need either self exploration within or an inspiration or just a little push and guidance. I never knew his one leg is smaller than other (though no two identical parts remain exact equal) and his spine is also bent.

To add -on, Illustrations were fantastic by Karen Crosbie. So simple, those were, as for anyone to understand the whole story so well.

Another lovely book from Little People, Big Dreams - one of my favourite series, and I have a feeling the sport biographies for kids are quite possible my favourite in these series or maybe because I know the least about these awesome humans, I learn the most from these? An idea I should explore.

Anyway, it was a fun ride to learn about Usain Bolt.

Thank you NetGalley for the eArc copy of this book for an honest review.

My grade 4 class loved this book. They loved he colours. They liked the way the story was engaging and informative. They have read similar styles before and this that the book is good for lower to middle primary aged students.

5/5 recommended

I think the narrative voice of this story is very inspiring for children, and pretty educational for those who don't know much about Usain Bolt. The illustrations are captivating as always. 10/10 recommended.

I remember Usain Bolt running in the Olympics but didn’t realise it was such a long time ago now. He was inspirational then but even more so since reading this book. I didn’t realise that he’s got a curved spine making one of his legs longer than the other, so definitely not a model for an Olympic gold medallist! I remember his famous poses after winning his races and always looked forward to watching him perform in any competition. Something I didn’t know was that he’s set up a foundation to inspire children to reach for their dreams and has donated equipment to classrooms across Jamaica and supports track and field events at his old school!

Lovely read about the very popular Usain Bolt. Gives a well-pitched and accessible look at his life before and during his Olympic success.

Usain Bolt is an icon and someone I grew up knowing about, but my daughter had never heard of him and I was floored! This book sparked her interest in him and was a wonderful introduction to such an inspiring human.

We know him as the fastest man alive and as a love able athlete who is charitable and full of life, but I didn’t know he started running after his high school coach redirected him to that sport from cricket! I also didn’t fully understand all that Usain overcame to break his records.

The book not only focuses on his wins and achievements, but teaches a valuable lesson: “success requires more than natural talent; it demands effort, discipline, and dedication.”

This is another gorgeous addition to the beloved Little People, Big Dreams series and one we cannot wait to add to our home library!

Thank you NetGalley for an advanced ecopy for an honest review

I watched Usain Bolt in the Olympics, and getting to read this to my kids, they loved it. I loved that there was a lesson in their about working hard to make your dreams come true

Easy text, colourful pages.

Will definitely be getting a physical copy and then adding this to our home library.

Well done! Yes, I am an adult. Yes, I enjoyed this book. Although not a person that follows any sports, I have heard of Usain Bolt. As a grandparent, I believe in reading to children and supplying good books when they can read it themselves. I loved learning more about his story. The pictures are great. The story is even better. It is short, precise and I loved the recommendation at the end of the book that offers a chance to learn more about him.

Book 072 of 300 ~ 2024

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Usain Bolt is cray cray talented and yet appears to be such a humble down to earth fella. Kinda reminds me of Shaq.

It's interesting to know his passion is cricket and wasn't till later that he focussed on sprinting.

As always, great storytelling for kids and adults alike. I love this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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As usual, this series brought up so many interesting people. And Usain is interesting. He's not a well-known person until he broke his record, but of course, there's a story behind each accomplishment, his story is a good lesson-learnt one. What kids usually lazy at, sometimes made them failed hard.

Another lovely inspiring Little People, Big Dreams book, and honestly I'm kind of surprised Usain Bolt didn't already have one! Having now heard the story of his early life, he's an even more inspiring person than I realised. I didn't know about his medical condition, or that he hadn't actually wanted to run at first. The colourful illustrations as always were beautiful, and super bright. Very engaging for young readers and I think this was a particularly inspirational one. Loved it!

I found it very hard to rate children's books so everything is a 5 star read for me!!
I really loved this book, the illustrations are so beautiful and captivating that I found myself smiling through every page I read.
Amazing book and amazing story of life. Also, this book collection is amazing! Can't wait to read the all!!

I learned a lot of Usain Bolt in this book as an adult. I didn’t know very much about him prior to reading this. I think this is a great book for classrooms and homes to educate kids on an important figure like Usain Bolt. The illustrations are engaging and the sentences and words are great for kids. I highly recommend this book!

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange of my honest opinion.

Oh, little Usain must be very proud of himself!

It was very nice to know a little bit more about him, his story, his background and his struggles.

It is amazing how far he went and everything he achieved! Literally the best athlete ever!

Thanks a lot for this book!

I love how a chicken lunch was his first trophy! There are no more than 4 lines per page. The pictures are engaging. I didn't know that Usain Bolt has a curved spine. He had limitations and challenges to overcome.