I’ve read a number of the books in the LITTLE PEOPLE BIG DREAMS biography collection for children. The series consists of very short, accessible works which highlight the lives of people who have made important contributions to the world and have accomplished great things in spite of significant obstacles.

It’s entirely understandable why Wilma Rudolph’s story is part of this series. Born in Tennessee in 1940, she was a tiny, premature baby who caught almost every infectious disease going. At age four, she contracted polio, which caused her left leg to become twisted and turned in. Doctors pronounced that she’d never walk again; Mrs. Rudolph said that her daughter would indeed walk. Wilma believed her and was as determined as her parent to make this happen. The two regularly made a 100-mile round trip by bus to Nashville for Wilma to receive medical treatment. This book doesn’t explain (though it should) that Nashville was the location of the nearest hospital (an institution for Blacks) that would actually care for her. The biography does inform young readers about the segregation on public buses, however. As African Americans, Wilma and her mother had to sit at the back of the vehicle. The book also fails to mention that Wilma was excluded from attending school for a few years because of her disability and frequent illnesses.

At the Nashville hospital, Wilma received physiotherapy for her leg. At home, her 19 siblings would, over the next five years, help out with treatments, massaging her leg four times a day. At some point Wilma was fitted with a heavy steel brace, which she was able to discard by age nine.

Once free of her brace, Wilma began to play basketball, which she’d always loved. She excelled at the game and was spotted by a coach who invited her to participate in a college program for athletes. (The book does not report just how important track-and-field-coach Ed Temple of Tennessee State University was in Wilma’s life. It was with his support that she gained a college scholarship and had access to the training that allowed her to realize her extraordinary potential.)

True to its mandate, the book highlights Wilma’s accomplishments at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics (a bronze in the 400 meter relay) and at the 1960 Rome Olympics (gold medals in the 100 and 200 meter dashes and the 400 meter relay). It rightly points out Wilma showed that sprinting wasn’t something just for boys, and it appropriately observes that she had “fought against all odds to become the fastest woman in the world.”

In the final pages, there’s a small timeline of Wilma’s life and three suggestions for further reading—including Kathleen Krull’s superb picture book Wilma Unlimited, a book that is in an entirely different league from this one.

While I acknowledge the value of a series that gives brief, easy-to-read summaries of important lives, I have consistently found the writing in these books unremarkable and less than inspiring. Here and elsewhere, the illustrations are purely perfunctory. Wilma doesn’t even look like Wilma, and the scenes we see her in look modern and sanitized. Forget artistic merit; there isn’t even an attempt to be historically accurate or realistic in the pictures that accompany the text.

Having said all of this, series books help kids to gain confidence as readers. The brevity and familiar formula that characterize LITTLE PEOPLE BIG DREAMS can be relied on to encourage further reading of the other short biographies offered by Vegara, the author and creator of this now sizeable collection of books.

My daughter loves this line of books and I think they're a great way of teaching children about historical figures and their impact on the world. I would recommend to anyone and everyone

Another inspiring and educational book from this series that my daughter loves. This tells the story of sportswoman Wilma, born into a large family and how she overcame the odds to be the person she wanted.

Another 5-star read from this amazing series that explores various personalities and their journeys. I wasn't too aware of Rudolph's before reading this and I love everything I learnt from this book!

This was a nice story and informative. It took a little bit to get through with my daughter though, I think the way it was written took a little for her to engage. But good overall.

Maria's Little People Big Dreams series is my all-time fave for children! Educational but fun, she hits the perfect balance to inspire, motivate and captivate children across the globe.

This series have done it again - taught me so much about someone I had only vaguely heard of, and if I am honest, didn't even know what she was well known for - I just knew I recognised her name.
A very inspiring read for small children - especially for those that have been told they can't do something. This story proves that anything is possible.
Great illustrations alongside the story of her life.
Great book.

Another fantastic book in the wonderful Little People, Big Dreams series! I was unfamiliar with Wilma Rudolph's story so it was really eye-opening to learn about her inspiring journey. The illustrations were adorable too!

Thank you NetGalley and Quarto for access to the e-book in exchange for an honest review.

This is one of our favourite biographies in this series.
The information is more suitable for children above 7, and my child found Rudolph’’s life story motivating. The length and the design are suitable to share with a younger child.

Once again, the Little People, Big Dreams series taught me so much about a person I had heard of, but truly knew nothing about. Before this story, I knew Wilma Rudolph was an Olympian, but that was it. Now, my daughters and I both know her to be the tenacious young woman who would not let anything, even physical and racial limitations, stop her from carving out her own path in life. Wilma is a champion for all both on and off the track and her story is so beautifully illustrated, making it one that will linger in your mind for a long time to come.

‘Wilma Rudolph’ by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is a part of the Little People, Big Dreams series, aiming to introduce young readers to the life and achievements of the inspiring Olympic athlete Wilma Rudolph. This book highlights her determination, resilience, and success in overcoming significant challenges to become a world-renowned sprinter.

Plot: ★★★★★

Wilma Rudolph's story is truly inspirational. The book wonderfully presents her journey from battling polio as a child to becoming a three-time Olympic gold medalist. It's a powerful narrative that teaches children the value of perseverance and hard work, making it a fantastic addition to any child's library.

Character: ★★★★☆

The portrayal of Wilma Rudolph captures her essence well, emphasizing her strength and determination. The book does a commendable job of illustrating her character, making her a relatable and admirable figure for young readers.

Illustrations: ★★★★☆

The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, complementing the story beautifully. They capture the historical context and Rudolph's spirit effectively, adding an extra layer of appeal to the book. The visual style is both charming and accessible to children.

Engagement: ★★★★☆

The story of Wilma Rudolph is engaging and inspiring, holding the reader’s attention throughout. Children are likely to be captivated by her incredible achievements and the challenges she overcame. The book strikes a good balance between informative content and storytelling, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Readability: ★★★★★

The readability is excellent, with clear and concise language suitable for young readers. The text is well-structured, making the story easy to follow and understand. The narrative flows smoothly, ensuring that children remain engaged from start to finish.

Enjoyment: ★★★★☆

This book is highly enjoyable, offering both inspiration and entertainment. Young readers will find Wilma Rudolph’s story motivating and uplifting. The combination of an engaging plot, well-developed character portrayal, and beautiful illustrations makes for a delightful reading experience.


‘Wilma Rudolph’ by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is a wonderful addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series, providing an inspiring and engaging account of Wilma Rudolph’s life and achievements. With its excellent readability, captivating illustrations, and motivational story, it is sure to be a hit with young readers. This book not only educates children about an important historical figure but also instils values of perseverance and determination.

Another great addition to this series of books. They are so accessible and revealing unknown histories. I had never heard of Wilma Rudolph before but what an inspirational lady.
These books are brilliant for inspiring children and allowing them to find out about so many different people and their backgrounds.

I loved reading about this past Olympian during this year's (Paris 2024) Olympic Games. Wilma's story is one full of so much inspiration! The many things she had to overcome to be able to even walk, let alone run and do it so fast is incredible and certainly only possible with a lot of determination and help from her big family. I also liked that it touched on the segregation of the time but mainly on the positive of Wilma removing segregation at the event held in her honour after gold medal wins. As always I loved the bright illustrations in this one and would definitely recommend giving it a read! This is one of the more inspirational ones and Wilma Rudolph is a truly incredible woman!

Certainly! Here's the improved version of your text:

While Usain Bolt is a name I can recall in my sleep, Wilma Rudolph was surprisingly and, I must admit, embarrassingly unfamiliar to me. That changed thanks to the "Little People, BIG DREAMS" series of children's books, which broadened my knowledge. Wilma Rudolph was a prodigious running legend who won three gold medals at her first Olympic Games!

Her story is almost unbelievable: a young girl who exceeded everyone's expectations and reached for the stars. Wilma was a child with poor health who had to endure several different illnesses. One illness, in particular, left a lasting impact, forcing her to wear a metal leg brace. According to the doctors, there was no hope of her walking or running normally in the future. However, Wilma believed in her mother, who, unlike the doctors, gave her hope. With the help of her family, Wilma shed the leg brace after five years. She went on to become a basketball and track star, outpacing all the boys in her district and leading her basketball team to championships. Her journey culminated in winning gold medals at the Olympics—a true inspiration!

The illustrations in this book are similar to those in the Usain Bolt book, featuring simple and playful characters set against pastel backgrounds. The positive tones perfectly complement Wilma's uplifting story. Miracles are possible, and dreams do come true.

A definite recommendation for young readers and sports enthusiasts! 😊

Thank you so much, NetGallery and Frances Lincoln Children's Books, for this wonderful reading experience and for the ARC copy!

Review in Estonian (Aug 26, 2024): https://brixieblog.wordpress.com/2024/08/26/wilma-rudolph-maria-isabel-sanchez-vegara/

Myself and my little one absolutely love the Little people, Big Dreams series. We always eagerly await the next release. This latest one did not disappoint.

We knew very little of Wilma Rudolph so it was wonderfully informative and as usual the illustrations were fantastic.

Cannot wait for the next release. We will definitely be buying this one to add to our collection. These books are fantastic for reading together as they allow for lots of discussion.

This is the perfect book to read while watching the current 2024 Paris Olympics! Shedding light on a record-breaking historical figure in track and field, this book is a reminder of the groundbreakers who have paved the way for today's athletes. Telling Wilma's story to the next generation of aspiring Olympic athletes is an important part of the historical record - and an inspiration for kids who may have their own challenges to overcome. It doesn't minimize the challenges that Wilma had to overcome to get to where she ended up, but it also doesn't belabor the challenges without highlighting the work and dedication that led to positive results (and the family/community who helped Wilma along the way).

The illustrations in this book are excellent and support the story elements that are on each page (I still am astonished that Wilma had 21 siblings...!). The takeaway from this book is both simple and profound - that greatness lives in each one of us. And each of us has the opportunity to unlock that greatness. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review an eARC of this book.

A great way for children to learn about important historical figures. Providing insight into sportsperson Wilma Rudolph.

This is a fab little bio of Olympic sprinter Wilma Rudolph, with gorgeous illustrations and a fact-filled timeline with photos. Another great addition to the Little People, BIG DREAMS series. A gem!

I really appreciate that this book series exists and how children can access important stories about inspiring people. When I have kids I will definitely collect these. I like that the book begins with illustrations and Wilma Rudolph’s story along with more of a formal history with photos at the end of the book.

Wilma Rudolph is famous as the first female Olympian to win three Gold medals. This picture book biography describes her rise from a sickly child to a record breaking athlete. Born prematurely, she survived Polio at the age of four, but it left her left leg paralyzed. Doctors told her that she would never walk with out a leg brace. The book tells how she and her mother had to ride for hours in the back of the bus to reach her weekly dr appointments. Her large family shared the burden of four daily messages that helped her circulation allowing her to eventually regain her health. The book describes her career, ending with her early retirement while at the top of her field. It makes the point that she set examples for female athletes and also stood for civil rights. There are numerous juvenile biographies about Rudolph. This one does a perfect job of covering the highlights in an appropriate manner for young children. Little People, Big Dreams is avery large series of biographies aimed at youngsters. This book is a great addition to the series. . Amelia Flowers realistic illustrations help tell the story.