Welcome February and U.S Black History Month. In 1926 Carter Woodson, an African American scholar, educator and publisher began Negro History Week. Mainstream historians were excluding African Americans from the narrative of American History and Woodson’s intentions were Negro History Week would acknowledge the achievements of African Americans. The week that Woodson created paved the way for Black History Month which became a month long celebration in 1976. It first began in America but now many countries acknowledge Black History Month including an abundance of learning settings. In the U.K it is celebrated in October.
With the publication of Muhammad Ali (Little People, BIG DREAMS) 
Little People, Big Dreams continues to be a fantastic non-fiction series that is now introducing men to its series. Published by Frances Lincoln children’s books, the series has sold over 1,000,000 copies worldwide. The books are informative, inspiring, inclusive and are a celebration of individuals from history.
The first male to join the series is Muhammed Ali. He is an individual who was hardworking, determined and focused. The book wonderfully shares these characteristics of a man who was a brilliant boxer and a civil rights activist.
Like all the series the book shares information about Muhammad Ali when he was growing up. Then known as Cassius, he was a young boy living in Kentucky. After getting his bike stolen when he was young, he decided to learn how to box first, advice the police officer had given him if he was to fight the thief.
The book continues to share Muhammad Ali’s hard work and determination in explaining that he won fight after fight and it also explains how courageous he was in speaking out. He stood against the Vietnam war and often spoke out against racism. The book celebrates the work he did after retiring, working for charities and helping others.
At the end of the book, just like others in this series, there is a timeline and facts sharing more information about Muhammad Ali, including him converting to Islam and why he refused to fight in the Vietnam War and explaining that he suffered from Parkinson’s disease.
It is also brilliant to see some book suggestions at the end of the book, should a reader want to find out more Muhammad Ali.
The book is illustrated by Brosmind and you can see throughout the book, the illustrations are colourful and engaging, representing such an inspiring man.
In March Little People, Big Dreams will be releasing a new title, Stephen Hawking. We looking forward to seeing more of this brilliant series.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publishers but as always, all opinions shared are my own. This post contains affiliate links.