Shine Bright Like Ariana & Cynthia: A Review of "Spotlight On Ariana Grande" and "Spotlight On Cynthia Erivo" Children’s Biography Series
- Kim Bartosch
- Sep 16
- 4 min read
If you’re looking for a children’s picture book series that blends fun, color, and empowering life lessons, then "Spotlight On: Ariana Grande" and "Spotlight On: Cynthia Erivo" will absolutely capture your heart—and your bookshelf. Published by Simon Spotlight and written by Hunter M. Green and Elizabeth Dennis, these glittery biographical books are brought to life through the playful and bold illustrations of Ruth Burrows.
Spotlight On Ariana Grande and Spotlight On Cynthia Erivo aren’t just beautiful on the outside (hello, glittery covers! ✨), they’re radiant inside too—with positive messages, big dreams, and the real-life stories of two incredible performers who have inspired generations. Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the books and my honest review. Scroll down to learn more!
🎤 Ariana Grande: More Than Just a Big Voice
In Spotlight On: Ariana Grande, we meet a little girl with a big dream and an even bigger voice. From her earliest days uploading YouTube videos to dazzling audiences on Broadway, television, and the big screen, Ariana’s story is one of perseverance and staying true to yourself.
The book does a fantastic job of breaking down Ariana’s journey in a way that’s both digestible and motivational for young readers. It highlights her rise to stardom while emphasizing values like goal-setting, creativity, and using your voice for good. Whether she’s singing her heart out, supporting her family, or spreading kindness, Ariana’s light shines brightly across the pages—and it’s impossible not to be swept up in her sparkle.
🎭 Cynthia Erivo: A Voice That Soars
Cynthia Erivo’s story is just as magical. From a humble school Christmas pageant performance of “Silent Night” to earning the prestigious Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Awards for her role as Celie in The Color Purple, Cynthia’s journey is one of hard work, fearless dreaming, and finding your unique glow.
In Spotlight On: Cynthia Erivo, young readers learn that every step counts—even the smallest ones. Cynthia’s career is depicted not just as a story of fame but of substance: celebrating individuality, breaking barriers, and believing in the power of your voice. This book encourages children to embrace who they are, work hard, and always keep their dreams within reach.
🎨 Illustration & Design That Pops
Ruth Burrows’ illustrations bring energy and joy to every page. The colors are bright, the expressions are animated, and the layouts feel dynamic without being overwhelming. Young readers will especially love the fashionable outfits and scene-setting that reflect the style and spirit of both Ariana and Cynthia.
And yes, the glittery covers are the cherry on top! They make these books gift-worthy, collectible, and downright adorable.
💬 Why These Books Shine
The Spotlight On series is more than a collection of pretty books—it’s a gateway to meaningful conversations with kids about perseverance, individuality, and dreaming big. Both stories spotlight women who used their voices—literally and figuratively—to uplift and inspire.
These books make perfect additions to home libraries, classrooms, and gifts for young fans of Wicked, Wicked: For Good, or simply great role models. They’re also fantastic for adults who admire Ariana and Cynthia—because honestly, we could all use a little sparkle and inspiration now and then.
👧👦 Who These Books Are For
Ages 5–10 (though fans of all ages will appreciate them!)
Fans of musical theater, pop stars, and real-life role models
Teachers looking for empowering read-alouds
Parents wanting to introduce biographical stories with positive messages
Kids who love glitter, music, and dreams coming true 💖
Final Thoughts 🌈
The Spotlight On series from Simon Spotlight captures the essence of two powerhouse performers in a way that’s exciting, educational, and totally enchanting. These books remind kids (and adults) that dreams take work—but they’re absolutely worth chasing. And with messages of friendship, determination, and self-belief, what more could we ask for in a picture book?
Grab your glitter and get inspired. These books are a must-have for anyone ready to shine.
About the books:
Publisher: Simon Spotlight (Simon & Schuster Children's Division)
Pub. Date: September 23, 2025
Genre: Children's Biography Picture Book
Buy Link: Simon & Schuster
Synopsis:
Cynthia Erivo has always been a powerful performer with a voice as big as her dreams. How did she achieve the radiant life of singing and acting she’d hoped for?
From her very first performance of “Silent Night” at a school Christmas pageant to her Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award–winning turn as Celie in The Color Purple on Broadway to her Academy Award-nominated role as Elphaba in Wicked and Wicked: For Good, Cynthia has raised her voice and inspired millions.
Her iconic style, artistic flair, and confidence all make her shine. Find your own glow in the same way by believing in yourself, celebrating your individuality, and never missing your chance to fly.
Publisher: Simon Spotlight (Simon & Schuster Children's Division)
Pub. Date: September 23, 2025
Genre: Children's Biography Picture Book
Buy Link: Simon & Schuster
Synopsis:
Ariana Grande was a little girl with a big voice who grew up to dazzle on stage and screen. How did she make her dream come true?
From her early days uploading singing videos to YouTube to her Grammy win for Best Pop Vocal Album for Sweetener to her Academy Award-nominated performance as Glinda the Good in Wicked and Wicked: For Good, Ariana has stayed true to herself and brought her love of performing to the world.
Her fashion sense, passion for singing, and devotion to her family all make her shine. How can you shine like Ariana? Never forget where you came from, set a goal and stick with it, and always use your talents for good. With glitter on the cover, this book shines, too!
About the Authors:
Hunter M. Green is a publishing professional, running amateur, part-time podcast listener, and full-time iced coffee drinker. She lives in New York City with her husband and their cat who thinks he’s a dog.
Elizabeth Dennis grew up in Arizona, where she loved finding teeny, tiny, fairy-sized wildflowers in the desert and seeing double rainbows over the mountains. Nowadays, she lives in New York City and writes and edits books for children, and still loves flowers, nature, and double rainbows!
About The Illustrator:
Ruth Burrows can be found at work daily in her open studio located in the busy Lincolnshire market town of Sleaford, UK. Having spent over twenty years living and working in the Middle East as an event designer, Ruth now works full time as an illustrator as well as running a fully stocked art shop!
These look like fun books.
Pretty covers