Wolverhampton Grammar School hosts inspiring Little People, BIG DREAMS celebration for local schools on World Book Day.
Wolverhampton Grammar School, Authors Aloud UK and Quarto Publishers brought together young readers from across the city on World Book Day as it hosted a vibrant celebration of the 10th anniversary of the bestselling children’s book series Little People, BIG DREAMS.
Held at Grand Station in Wolverhampton, the event welcomed pupils from 12 local schools, who gathered for a morning of creativity, storytelling and music inspired by the iconic figures featured in the much-loved book series.
The event was hosted by CBBC writer Athena Kugblenu, who led pupils through a lively programme of activities, including an interactive art round, where children took part in a special draw-along session with illustrator Lizzie Knott, known for illustrating the series Harry Style title. Pupils also enjoyed a read-along with series creator and author Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara and a joyful sing-along celebration to round off the event.
As part of the celebration, each of the participating schools received a gift of books from The Merchant Taylors Foundation, ensuring pupils can continue exploring the inspiring stories of historical and contemporary figures through the Little People, BIG DREAMS series.
The event formed part of a record-breaking national celebration marking the series’ 10th anniversary, with over 100 schools and tens of thousands of children across the UK dressing up as icons from the books on World Book Day. The milestone year also coincides with the UK’s National Year of Reading 2026; a government initiative aimed at encouraging children to read more amid declining national reading rates.
Created by author Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara in 2016, Little People, BIG DREAMS has introduced millions of children around the world to icons of history, science, activism, sports, and the arts – from David Attenborough to Frida Kahlo, Marcus Rashford to Taylor Swift. The series now consists of 150 books with 136 different illustrators and has sold over 14.5 million copies in more than 40 languages and 100 countries.
The series now consists of 150 books illustrated by 136 artists and has sold more than 14.5 million copies worldwide, translated into over 40 languages and available in more than 100 countries.
Ten years ago, I wanted to show children that every great life starts with a dream. Seeing thousands of children dress up as the heroes who inspire them is the most joyful way to celebrate how far we’ve come.
Author Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Alongside the nationwide World Book Day celebrations, anniversary events for the series will include immersive Little People, BIG DREAMS exhibitions in key UK institutions such as Discover Children’s Story Centre, alongside a programme of events across UK cultural and heritage venues throughout the year.
Author Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara and children involved across the event are available for interview and filming. Contact Megan Fowler for interview requests.
