Hedy Lamarr (Little People, Big Dreams) by Sanchez Vegara, Maria Isable and Maggie Cole tells the story of this world-renowned actress and scientist. Aimed at a younger audience, some of her life would not be completely appropriate for the traditional picture book listener and/or reader (she was married to an arms dealer and he was cruel to her). Yet, it is handled well and with an adult, you can explain easily enough. But of course, know your audience.
However, with Laverne Cox (Little People, Big Dreams) by Vegara and Olivia Daisy Coles, we have someone whose life is more “friendly” to the younger readers, but still a fascinating, different read. She is an actress who is currently making headlines but might not be as famous as some. These two women are trail blazers and while they might not be “out in front of you” in the media, this series introduces you to people in an honest way.
This introduction style of the series allows for a look into the world of someone famous who might not always be as well known. Though Lamarr is not new to the kid biography world this is the first I’ve seen for Cox. Yet, the Little People, Big Dreams series covers all areas of fame and allows for mainstream popularity as well as the “new to us” people. Lamarr covers many genres allowing her story works for many types of readers. This book is about art (actress), science (her work would lead to the internet), and women’s history. With Cox she covers art (actress) and women’s history, and she also covers people of color and the GLBTQ community.
The art is really the only issue I tend to have with these books. Sometimes they are not as “serious” as the subject would seemingly need, while other times, that lighter tone works well for the person. This time, things are a bit too caricature for me, but others will like it. They are a personal choice book when it comes to the illustrations. Still, I enjoy these books and look forward to reading more of them.
