Dolly Parton

Little Dolly is so cute!

As all of the books in this collection I'm surprised of how beautifully the story was told

Very inspirational.
Also loved that they included the library for.kids as part of the Singer achievement.

Despite being a big Dolly fan, I actually know surprisingly little about her life. I loved the illustrations in this - the texture really added interest. The addition of the timeline at the end, for those who wanted a little bit more information, was very helpful. I'm not sure how much I learnt from this, but it was a sweet and enjoyable read. I'd definitely be interested in trying out more of the series.

Soothing illustrations tell the story of Dolly Parton, talented youngster from the Great Smoky foothills to the Nashville singer/songwriter phenomenon. Follow the butterfly through Dolly's significant partnerships with her husband Carl, Porter Wagoner and Kenny Rogers, to her signature style and the projects that mean most to her like Dollywood and her Imagination Library. A must for any Children's Library, personal and public, or as a gift book for any Dolly fan

I love Dolly Parton, so I had no doubt I would enjoy this book. The story is simple, but enjoyable for both children and adults alike. The story was inspiring without feeling too much like the typical "You can do anything!" children's book. I especially appreciated that Dolly's Imagination Library was mentioned, as that is a wonderful cause that I personally admire. I first discovered these books while shopping for my goddaughter's birthday and I love the series. The only thing I did not enjoy as much as I expected was the illustrations. Dolly is larger than life and I do not feel the illustrations did her justice.

Thank you to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for allowing me access to this book.

I can't say enough about this series! Simple without being overly so. Great illustrations and the perfect amount of information for little learners! We look for these books every time we visit the library. Another excellent addition to the series!

Dolly Parton by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is another delightful addition to the Little People, BIG DREAMS series, a collection of books that have become must reads for me. This time around, the focus is on the American treasure, who grew up with nothing in terms of material goods, but with a richness in both the love of family and musical talent from the very beginning. Dolly's rise to musical stardom is detailed, and I was particularly pleased to see that the Imagination Library which has become a symbol of Ms Parton's generosity of spirit, warranted several mentions in the book. As per usual, the charming illustrations that accompany the text bring the spotlighted individual to life in such a way that their personality virtually leaps off the page. Recommended.

Many thanks to NetGalley and The Quarto Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this adorable biography about national treasure Dolly Parton aimed at kids.
The illustrations are precious!

I am loving this "little people big dreams" series.

Dolly parton is my favorite and introducing your children to a legend in story format is amazing.

I can't wait to buy this for my wee niece! I'm a huge Dolly fan so couldn't wait to read this. Beautifully illustrated, the book is interesting and inspirational - much like Dolly herself. I was particularly pleased to see the inclusion of the Imagination Library. This book is a must-have for little girls with big dreams everywhere. I loved it!

This little biography of Dolly Parton, aimed at very small children, is adorable and inspiring. It would be an excellent way for Dolly fans to introduce her to the next generation or to inspire wanna-be artists to follow their dreams.

I received this advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the ebook copy to read and review.

What a wonderful book, it was beautifully made. Telling the story of the queen Dolly Parton, of her growing up in a big family of twelve, of her beautiful gift of her voice and how she managed to make her dreams come true. To her then becoming a millionaire and being worldwide famous, but still being humble and sweet and giving back to others as she’s always been taught.

I love Dolly and I love the way this was made sharing her wonderful story in a quick and easy way for children, giving them the chance to find inspiration for who she is and what she had to do to achieve her dreams, it also came with the most adorable illustrations to go along with it.

This is a very adorable book and a fun, quick read on someone incredible in this world.

Dolly Parton, a real inspirational woman, she should be held up as an example far more of what strong women can do, from beautiful music, to helping people, she never forgets where she came from. Another fabulous book from Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, with beautiful art and it’s a pleasure to read. Should be read by big and little people.


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

5 out of 5 🌟 Adorable illustrations for a short & sweet story

Little People, Big Dreams is a series of short books for children about extraordinary people who change the way we’re looking at the world now. It’s an enjoyable piece of non-fiction kids’ literature to savor along with your tiny humans. I love biographies of people who dared to be different, and these short books are one of my favorites.
I must admit, as a person born and raised in Europe, I didn’t know much about Dolly Parton's history and early years. Hence the book was enjoyed by the whole family and we all learned about Dolly’s life and listen to her songs together. What a great family bonding evening!

What I really liked about the series ‘Little People, Big Dreams’ are simple and friendly illustrations to make children feel it was truly made for them. While younger children can be engaged in ‘show-and-tell’ activities, the older ones can try their drawing skills and make their own Dolly. Daria Solak is using all the familiar materials — crayons, markers, and paints — inviting kids to engage in the story.

Overall, ‘Dolly Parton’ is another great book in the series, the story is engaging and informative, can be read independently by Kindergarteners or 1–2 graders or, of course, alone or together, by everyone else.

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

The Little People, Big Dreams series always releases great write-ups of important people, and this is no exception. I had my daughter read the book (Age 7) and she loved it! The story was easy for her to follow along with, and provided great insight to what kind of person Dolly Parton is, especially with her contribution to reading, and making sure children had access to literature.
The illustrations seem quick, and child-like, which is mostly common for this series, my daughter enjoys looking at the illustrations of the individual, and then going to the end and seeing what they looked like in real life.
Overall, this is a quick read to introduce someone to Dolly Parton and was definitely an enjoyable read at that!

Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Another awe inspiring biographical board book by this author about the life and accomplishments of country singer Dolly Parton. The author captures perfectly the fame and grand personality that was Dolly. A wonderful role model for young girls with a dream.

This series of books are among some of my favorite to use to teach in the classroom. I love exposing my kids to all different kinds of people from all different walks of life. Dolly Parton was no exception. The book was delightful with vivid illustrations and easy to understand story telling, My class loved to learn about Dolly and her life. The Little People Big Dreams series is a must have in every classroom across the world.

An admirable addition to one of my favorite children's biographical books! My grade 1 students just adore this series and they basically memorize the stories!

A new addition to the brilliant (and critically-acclaimed) series, Little People, Big Dreams .

A few of the books in this series really stand out for me: I love Rosa Parks, Frida Kahlo and Anne Frank, for example, and very much enjoyed the David Bowie version. Also a musical icon, Dolly Parton and her story are fascinating to me.

Growing up near the Great Smokey Mountain in East Tennessee, Dolly was destined for stardom. She came from a poor family with eleven brothers and sisters but her life was rich in love and musical influence. Soon after graduating high school, Dolly moved to Nashville and began her life in music. What I love about this book is that it also pinpoints Dolly's success in business and her kind heart, paying tribute to her Imagination Library initiative to give books to children in need across the world. This book covers Dolly's fifty year career but is still presented in a way that is very appealing to children and young people.

The illustrations are adorable and I love the story; one of my new favourites!

I love the books in this series and I couldn’t wait to read this one on the fabulous Dolly Parton!

I love that these books give an insight in to the back stories of some of the most influential people in the world. The Little People, Big Dreams series is one I always look out for.

I love Dolly and think that she is an incredible lady, I did know most of the things mentioned about her in the book, but for me it didn’t really show her full personality which is what makes Dolly Parton so remarkable and special. I really enjoyed it, 5 stars from me, very highly recommended!

This is part of a series that I have grown to love, and they just seem to get better with each book. This Little People Big dreams book about Dolly Parton gives the perfect amount of information for a young reader. I love the simple, but not simplistic text and the back matter is very helpful for those curious minds that want to know more. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for this brand to purchase for my library.

Fun book for children about Dolly Parton! I loved the colorful illustrations and the author does a great job of succinctly summarizing her life and impact, including her musical career and desire to help children. That being said, the text was a little stilted. I think parents who are Dolly fans will really enjoy reading this one to their kids!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this ARC.

Being born in Germany and long after Dolly Parton was in the charts, I only knew her by her reputation earned through her looks, which now feels very superficial to me. Which puts me in the situation of knowing what this person is famous for, somehow, but not any details at all. So yet again, this picture book series for children taught me something, and due to the further reading suggestions I could learn even more.

I didn't know that Dolly Parton's music deals with being a woman in an area where this side of the coin is mostly ignored, or had been at that point in time. My prejudices have been adressed and need re-evaluation, that's for sure.

Again, would recommend this book for small and big folks.

I recieved a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Dolly Parton is such a legend, and this beautiful picture book about her life was a great introduction to her life. The illustrations were simple, but beautiful, and I loved how the book highlights Dolly’s charity alongside her successful career. This was a happy and uplifting read.

I love the current trend of picture book biographies and this is one of my favorites. The story is highly engaging and well-written. The illustration style matches both the book and Dolly Partons personality. A great addition to any library!

Another super cute look into the life of someone who is really well known but who I didn't know much about.

The illustrations are lovely again and I like the point made about how she dressed for herself but her songs were still full of deep and heartfelt meaning.

This is one of THE BEST picture book biographies I've ever seen. The material is interesting, age-appropriate and it's so refreshing to have different, important people from across the world covered in a series. I absolutely recommend these for your home or school library. Children adore reading and learning about other people, even if they've never heard of them before!

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

This book is such a beautiful tribute to the beautiful Dolly Parton. This short but interesting childrens book encourages children to pursue their hopes and dreams.
I love this series and hope one day to have a full set to share with the children I teach at school.

Dolly Parton encapsulates the notion of what can be achieved if you follow your dreams.

From growing up with 11 siblings in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains to her lasting international fame, Dolly's story is one of hard work and giving something back.

She set up a library, sending books around the world to children in need.

What makes the books in the series so appealing are the colourful and quirky illustrations. Here, everyone features a butterfly, which nicely sums up Dolly's view of life.

With a timeline at the end, the young reader in a few pages obtains quite a bit of biographical detail about one of country musics all time greats.

4 stars! Love Dolly and my kids are learning all about people in the world, famous and not so famous who help others. Dolly is one of them! Love it!

Dolly Parton is another great addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series. She is such a great role model. Dolly set up the Imagination Library for children in need and is a successful business woman and country/pop music singer. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my digital copy.

Dolly Parton is an American icon. Coming from humble beginnings, she followed her dream to sing and became an American Dream success story. This children’s book tells her story in an inspirational way for children to understand. Dolly stayed true to herself and children should stay true to themselves as well.

As an educator, I would r3commend this book to children to see that they can do big things even if they come from very,title material wealth. Everyone can make a difference.

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

This heartwarming tale follows Dolly Parton's journey as she goes from singing on her porch at home to becoming a global star.

Raised in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Dolly grew up with eleven siblings and dreamed of becoming a singer. As she got older, she moved to Nashville, fell in love, and began topping the charts alongside a famous country singer. She eventually went solo and became the most popular country music singer of her time. She loved making people happy so she sought new adventures. To give something back to the kids that loved her, she set up a library that sent books to children in need. She also built a theme park and became an incredibly successful businesswoman. To this day, Dolly remains a legend and is loved and respected by many.

This book is great for teaching children to follow their dreams (as the title suggests). Dolly is a familiar face among people of all ages and is a true icon, particularly to those that dream of becoming singers. I loved learning about her childhood, career, and business ventures. The illustrations perfectly accompany the words and are incredibly visually appealing. They are also quite child-like which I think would go down well among the younger readers.

This is the 9th or 10th book I've read in this series and once again, it doesn't disappoint.

This book is a great biography for children. My 8-year-old loves this biography series and seems to be the right age for them. This one was a loving tribute to the great Dolly Parton and certainly showed how great she is. I love that it is short and sweet, but hits the major milestones and great things in her life that she is known for. This series is great to introduce children to biographies.

I know Dolly Parton by name, for being a famous country singer, but I was far from knowing her. I really liked the book, as it always presents us with a simple and captivating biography!

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for providing me a free copy in exchange for a honest review.

The series is written with an intention of inspiring people through the experiences and life of famous personalities.

This is a story about Little Dolly who grew up in Tennessee in a family "as poor as dirt." She started performing at an early age, singing on local radio and television. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville to pursue her singing dreams. Her managers wanted her to sing pop, but she followed her heart to sing and write country songs. Her heart was right—Dolly became a musical superstar, but she never forgot where she came from. She now uses her wealth to give back to people, children, and animals in need.

Babies and toddlers will love to snuggle as you read to them the engaging story of this fascinating musician and will also enjoy exploring the stylish and quirky illustrations of this sturdy board book on their own.

This series is entertaining and well written

Dolly Parton is someone I didn't know much about but after enjoying watching her musical 9 to 5 last year, I was intrigued to read this book to learn a bit more.

The book is very easy to read and much like the rest of this series is inspiring for children to see how you can achieve you're dreams and make a difference in the world. I was quite surprised to see how she rose to fame but it was lovely to see how she valued everyone that helped her get there and always stayed true to herself. I particularly liked the line that said about how everyone thought the way she presented herself was too much but she was happy and so would continue to dress in that way. I think this is a very empowering statement for children, we don't all have to change because of others judgements.

The illustrations in the book are beautiful and have a hand drawn feel to them which makes them look and feel very natural. This goes perfectly with the country feel to the book. As the book came to an end I thought the biography style ending was perfect to go over what was read in the book and give a bit more information.

This is another great book to the series and perfect to inspire children to aim for their dreams and always stay true to who they are.

This was cute and my kids enjoyed learning about Dolly. I do wish the book had touched a little more on some of her film career.

This is another very charmingly illustrated entry in the book series for the youngest children by Ms. Sanchez Vegara.  This entry tells the story of  Dolly Parton. 

Young Dolly had a gift for music and got her first regular slot on a radio show when she was only ten.  From there she went from strength to strength to become the legend that we know today.  In addition to her singing and writing, along with being an entrepreneur, readers will learn that Dolly wanted to give something back.  She became involved in a program that donates books to children in need.

Children should enjoy this latest entry in a good series.  Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

Another wonderful, engaging read from the much-loved Little People, Big Dreams series, this was a great introduction to the life and legacy of Dolly Parton. Sanchez Vegara has a flair for bringing the lives of these inspirational figures to life in a way that draws children into their story, piques their interest and warms their hearts without overwhelming readers with wordy detail or talking down to them.

The Dolly butterfly in each illustration caught my daughters eye immediately, and the fantastic listening recommendations led us to delve further into researching Dolly’s story and soulful music. We enjoyed this gateway into country music, which we were both not well acquainted with before today, and I’m sure this is a book that would lend itself to more rainy day re-readings and music-appreciation sessions.

An easy 4 stars.

This is a simple version of her amazing life and is the shorter board book style. I loved watching her in movies when I was younger so I was sad that they left that out, but she is known more for her music. Even as a superstar now, she came from humble beginnings and worked endlessly to get where she is. She believed in herself and stood up for women's rights everywhere. As a book lover, I am also always impressed with the fact that she started the Imagination Library to make sure that kids had books of their own.

I love this series of books for little children, I really really do. They're the cutest ever and they bring a lot of sunshine to these difficult days.

I was so happy to see there was a Dolly Parton one. I honestly think not enough people recognize the talent and the impact Dolly had in the American (and not only) culture. I'm not American, but even I know about how an icon she was and she still is.
I loved to learn more about her life, about her ambition and how she never stopped dreaming. How she was ahead of her times, and a sweet and strong woman at the same time. I really look up to her as an icon.

Tha illustrations in these little books are always amazing and cute, and I can't wait to read more books in this cute series. I highly highly recommend it. For children, but not only.

Review to come early June on blog/goodreads.

I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.

I just love Dolly Parton, sorry to say not because of her music (I am not a fan of country/country-ish music), but because I love her energy, how she always looks fabulous, and of course all her charity work (like gifting books to children). So I had to try out this book and see if I could learn more about this amazing woman.

I loved reading about Dolly's life, I didn't know she had so many siblings and that she started so young. I had a bit of a giggle that she found love instantly after moving to a new town, fate works in mysterious ways. I loved seeing how everything got set into motion for her to become who she is today. From singing and awards to charity and business. She is an amazing woman, and I knew that.

I do have to say that, just like with a couple of other books in this series, it feels a bit jarring how the ages just fly by. One moment she is a child the next she is an adult. I get that you cannot cram everything in a picture book, but a bit more of a smooth transition would have been nice.

Like with the other books we get a timeline at the end and I was glad with that as it gave just a bit more information on some events.

I wonder why there is a butterfly (I am guessing it is that) on most (I didn't feel like going back again) pages. Is that because of her one song? Or is there some other meaning to it?

The art was a bit a miss to me. I did like the style, but the perspectives just felt off. At times it felt like it should have perspective but in the same time the image was also flat. Hopefully that makes sense. I am sure I can explain it better in Dutch. :P

But I definitely had fun reading this one and I learned some new things about Dolly! I would recommend this one.

The Little Leaders series is a beautiful and easy read. Each one is dedicated to a different icon, leader or significant figure in our world history. It is written in a fab, easy to access, language that children of all ages will be able to access and understand.
What I particularly loved about these books are the illustrations. They are so beautifully drawn and put together and really engage the reader.

Curriculum links: historical figures, biography, autobiography.

You honestly can’t go wrong with the “Big Dreams” series. I love them all. And this is no exception. Dolly Parton is larger than life. And she is an inspiration. So happy I get to share these living legends with my kids!

Board Book
I received an electronic ARC from The Quarto Group through NetGalley.
This version introduces Dolly Parton to much younger readers. The simple text and vividly colored illustrations capture Dolly's spirit and compassionate nature along with her love of music. A read together option for families.
Part of the Little People BIG DREAMS series. Geared for toddlers and preschoolers.

So far, I think. this has been my favourite Little Book amongst all that I have read and reviewed. This bring to life the story of the country singer, the very talented, the very generous and extremely beautiful Dolly Parton. The illustrations are lively and convey the music that must have stirred Dolly's soul as she sang to animals at her family's farm and then later at the studios. I loved how the author has managed to get all the important details about Dolly's life into this book, aimed at small children, whoo might have heard Dolly Parton sing but would know her better after reading this book.

Wonderful book that encapsulates the musical journey of Dolly Parton. It starts with her as a child, her dream of music, and ends with her accomplishments and the ways that she has given back to her community and her fans. The illustrations were colorful and inviting. Overall, a wonderful book to share with your young reader about this music icon.

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

The Dolly Parton book was sweet. My daughter was part of her Imagination Library program and so it was nice for her to read this story about the woman who sent her so many books over the years. I recommend this and all of the books in this series for anyone who reads to children!

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

Unfortunately I no longer have the right program to download and read protected pdfs. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Another lovely "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 Dolly Parton fan!). Great encouragement for the kids who love to sing!

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of the book for free in exchange for a fair review.

Dolly Parton shows children that the sky’s the limit and they can do anything they put their minds to in this short illustrated book.

Another inspiring book from the Little People Big Dreams series. This book on Dolly Parton celebrates the success of one of the most influential female musicians of recent times. This also highlights the act of sharing kindness when you are able to - something which Dolly has illustrated within her success. My 5 year old son enjoyed it as he does the other books in the series! Beautiful illustrations again and I would not hesitate to recommend.

Please note we are not permitted to write bookseller reviews on waterstones.com whilst on furlough. As such, I will post this review on our website on my return to work.

Such a cute way to learn about Dolly Parton. Loved the illustrations throughout this book and the colors were amazing.

So so delightful! It feels like society is finally recognising for how supremely talented and all-round-wonderful Dolly Parton this book is - and this book wonderfully captured that. In an accessible, charming and engaging manner it tells Dolly's story. I loved the inclusion of her work with literacy! The illustrations are gorgeous too - I'd love them as a set of postcards for my classroom. Will be recommending it as a must-buy to all my parents friends with young children and teacher friends of early years.

A welcome female addition to the series. This shows how you can succeed and be kind in the face of adversity. I learned a lot about Dolly I didn't know and how her career started and progressed. It would be interesting to see if Dolly gave children this book as part of her library initiative. Gorgeous illustrations.

A loving ode to a living legend that focuses on Dolly's talent, hard work, and passion for philanthropy. The adorable illustrations make this a joyful look at an inspirational life.

I don't think there is anyone who has not heard of Dolly Parton. A big personality, big hair, and big everywhere in between. A board book that shows the life of Dolly in her humble beginnings and those that believed in her. The meeting of of her husband Carl and in the author's own words. "He become her anchor, and she, his never-ending excitement." Dolly is a force to be reckon with. Even though these series of books are geared toward toddlers, I find that it is more for adults.

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

I always admired Dolly"s initation to help children in need access literature and I was familiar with some of her songs (one really cannot not know 'Jolene') but I actually knew nothing about her life.

I love this series because every volume provides interesting tidbits about the lives of famous people without being overwhelmingly informative.

An adorable and insightful look into the life and career of Dolly Parton, very interesting to read and good for all ages and audiences.

Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.

The text and illustrations in this book tell the wonderful story of Dolly Parton in a way that will attract children and inspire them to pursue and achieve their dreams. I recommend this book for all children.

This is so lovely and powerful! I'm amazed, because this is really a good story for kids, easy to read, but with a beautiful message of believe in herself and her dreams. Also, the illustrations is very cute too!

An absolutely adorable book about the life of one of America's greatest treasures! A great book to inspire kids of all ages! 5 Stars!

I have always been a massive Dolly Parton so this was an instant hit for me but it was so fun to share her story with my son and learn for myself about how she became the super star she is today. The illustrations were stunning and we listened to Dolly's songs whilst reading it.

Thank you Quarto for yet another brilliant instalment in this series.

I love these little books for teaching children about people of history that they can enjoy, as an adult I enjoy reading these as well, learning about well known people that I thought I knew!

Beautiful book that is engaging for young children and older children with stunning illustrations

Would make a lovely keep sake gift

This was a cute little biography! I read this book to my two daughters, aged 5 and 9. My 5 year old loved the illustrations and enjoyed the story telling style of the biography. My 9 year old daughter enjoyed the biography and it peaked her interest in Dolly Parton and her good deeds.

Another book in this super sweet series! I honestly can't get enough of them! And of course I would pick up a book about the living legend, Dolly Parton!

Yet again, I learned some new things! I love Dolly Parton and have followed her for years, but didn't know that much about her past. It was great to be able to learn something from a picture book - if I had books like this back in the day, I would have loved non-fiction more (I tended to go for fiction as a youngster).

The art style is very childish, which is probably the only negative I can say about this series. Sometimes the style works well, and other times it doesn't. For someone like Dolly, I almost expect something more elegant or wild, not just cartoon-y, but that's just me!

Overall, this is a great book and a great series! If you want a non-fiction, picture book that is easy to read and teaches about some historical figures, grab this book!

Four out of five stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Group for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.

I requested and received an e-ARC of this book from NetGalley and the Quatro Group in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was my favorite Little People, BIG DREAMS book so far, only because Dolly Parton is one of my favorite country singers and I love her Imagination Library initiative. I knew that she was part owner of Dollywood, but I did not know that she owned so many other companies. Learn something new everyday!

I love Dolly Parton and this book did not disappoint. The illustrations were spot on and the book touched on several important facts about Dolly. I can't wait to buy this book for my daughter!

Country Music legend Dolly Parton gets the rock-star treatment in this humble, lovely biography.

Quick Rating: Buy & Keep

Summary
It is impossible to capture the depth of character and career that encompasses the life of Dolly Parton in a child’s board book. This book, however, does an excellent job of distilling the essence of Parton’s spirit and accomplishments into a satisfying peek for both kids and adults alike.

Parton, known for her humor, talent and compassion, is followed from her humble beginnings in the foothills of Tennessee, through her accomplishments in music, to her contributions to children’s literacy–all in a scant 32 pages. No small feat!

Dolly Parton was once asked in an ABC interview, “[i]s it true that you once said that it’s a good thing you were born a girl, otherwise you would have been a drag queen?” She replied, “[y]es, it is true. Because I’m so over-exaggerated and I have so many fans in the gay community, and the drag queens.” And yes, even her love of makeup is touched upon in the book.

Illustrations
Solak, who studied graphic design at the Art Academy in Warsaw and Bologna, captures both the complexity of Parton’s life and the simplicity of Parton’s warmth in the illustrations. Solak’s illustrations, appearing childlike at first, do an excellent job of enhancing the static prose (this is a biography, after all) and reinforce the book’s central messages. The illustrations, however, only appear childlike. Take a look at the where Parton is reading a storybook; stop for a moment and focus on the simple points delineating the characters’ eyes. Where are they looking? All of the Children’s eyes are focused on the book–transfixed by the reading and the world of wonder. Where are Parton’s? Lost in the storytelling. These are not childlike renderings.

It’s On My Bookshelf
Sanchez Vegara has done an outstanding job of capturing a yet unfinished life and making it accessible for both young and old readers. I do have one quibble. I would not introduce this book before the first or second grade, although the reading recommendation begins at Preschool. I just do not think a preschooler would have the attention span or interest in it (unless they know Parton and/or like Country Music). Otherwise, this is a wonderful board book that doubles as a coffee table book. It is a definite buy and keep.

First, I adore this series. This series is great for kids of all ages, but also informational for adults. Every book in this series that I read with the kids, I learn as well. The illustrations and words are informational without being overwhelming. The language used is appropriate for kids of all ages and easy to comprehend without being over simplistic. This, and all others in the series are fantastic!

My children always love the "Little People, Big Dreams" books - we've read so many of them at this point! - but they especially loved this one, because we've been to Dollywood and stayed at the DreamMore Resort so they felt even more connected to this book than usual. We love Dolly and enjoyed learning more about her upbringing and life! Very sweet illustrations as well though they didn't scream *Dolly* to me necessarily!

The “Little People, Big Dreams” series is a big favourite in my house, and this one didn’t disappoint! The images were as charming as ever, and the pace was just right for my young child. My daughter loved learning all about another little girl who loves to sing as much as she does, who went on to do good for others.

It proved a great jumping off point for more discussion, as is often the case with this series, and we ended up singing and dancing along to Dolly’s songs long after we finished reading. I can tell that this is one that we’ll be revisiting often!

My thanks to the author, NetGalley, and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the arc to review.

Loved learning more about Dolly Parton, so this book was a big hit with me! Had absolutely no idea she met her husband as soon as she moved to Nashville, and I'm a sucker for a love story so that was a really cute fact to learn. My little girl was a huge fan of the tiny butterflies hidden on each page - her father and I were asking her to point them out as we were reading it to her and by the end of the book she was finding the butterflies quicker than we could! A brilliant addition that allows this book to appeal to little ones who have no idea who Dolly Parton is, and bigger ones who want to learn more about a country icon.

Another little book about a big character.
This is a story that will make your heart sing.
The series shows the need for others to share a person's dreams but that individual like Dolly Patron needs the original talent and motivation.
A joy to share her voice and make music about the world; then to reclaim it for children through her theme park and women in her work and drive.
The simple factual text is enhanced by vibrant,colourful illustrations. A timelime acts as a reference at the end of the book, with real photos and a place to begin more expansive research.

This is a really nice biography of Dolly Parton for kids. A lot of people don't know how truly amazing Dolly is. She is obviously a successful singer/songwriter and actress. She's also an accomplished businesswoman and philanthropist. Her theme park, Dollywood, gets over 3 million guests a year and employs many in her native Pigeon Forge, TN. Her Imagination Library has gifted over 137 million free books to kids in the US and around the world. And that's just a few things she's done.

It's amazing that she accomplished a lot of her success in the 60s and 70s when it was hard for women to succeed in country music. She then just built on it year after year, becoming a successful businesswoman and using her fame and influence to help others. It's great that a kids' book was written about Dolly so children know about this incredible woman with a beautiful voice who gives so much to others.

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