The Little Books of the LIttle Brontës
by Sara O’Leary
illustrated by Briony May Smith
40 pages, 5–9 years; published 2023 by Tundra Books/Penguin Random House of Canada
What I love most about The Little Books of the LIttle Brontës by Sara O’Leary is how it highlights the imagination of the Brontë siblings. The story focuses on the miniature books they created and the storytellers they embodied. Readers do learn about some of the sadness that entered their lives, but it’s not dwelled on.
The endearing illustrations by Briony May Smith truly enrich the story. They have a timeless quality and attention to detail that children will love to examine. The back matter is equally rich and gives a deep dive into the history of the Brontë family that older children and teachers will enjoy. There’s even a craft guide. What a wonderful literary biography tackled in a thoroughly unique way.