Dream Big: The Hall of Champions by Michael G. Velázquez delivers a powerful message of hope, courage, and community. The book follows the journey of two brothers, Michael and Max, and their loyal dog, OdieBoy, as they work to create the National Hall of Champions and Learning Center on Childhood Cancer™. Through their determination and compassion, they aim to honor children battling cancer and provide a space for families to find comfort, connection, and strength. The narrative is beautifully crafted, blending moments of joy, sorrow, and triumph. The author’s ability to convey the emotional experiences of children and families affected by pediatric cancer is powerful. The story highlights the importance of empathy and the transforming influence of small acts of kindness. It reminds readers that anyone, regardless of age or circumstances, can make a difference in others' lives.

The book also emphasizes the value of collaboration and community. The creation of the Champions’ Councils, where children, families, and community members come together to share ideas and talents, is a wonderful example of collective effort. The story shows how a shared vision can unite people and motivate action, leading to meaningful change. Velázquez’s passion for advocating for children with cancer is clear on every page. His dedication to raising awareness about the lack of funding for pediatric oncology and his dream of building the Hall of Champions are evident and deeply inspiring. The book urges readers to support this cause and make a positive difference in their communities. Dream Big: The Hall of Champions is a touching and uplifting story. As a pediatric cancer survivor, I am grateful for Michael G. Velázquez’s offer of hope for children who battle this horrible disease.

Dream Big: The Hall of Champions is a beautiful book to raise awareness among children about the challenges of cancer. Michael G. Velazquez dreams that no family will ever feel alone. He reminds us that you don't have to be living through this struggle to act with empathy and collaborate. His story is about two brothers named Michael and Max, and their dog OdieBoy. One afternoon, while playing in the park, they see a group of children in the hospital across the street and decide to do something to help them. So they plan to raise money to build a place where children with cancer can share their stories and where families can learn about the disease. Their father is the first to help them, but little by little, more people get involved in the project, showing that anything is possible with a willingness to help and teamwork.

I liked how Michael G. Velazquez develops the story in that explanations about cancer are introduced naturally without affecting the pace of events. The characters are charming. Michael and Max stand out for their positivity and high energy. They spend a lot of time listening to the children in the hospital and are empathetic. When they understand that the loss of their hair saddens some children, the brothers shave their heads in solidarity. When one of the girls dies, they mourn her loss. Their understanding of the situation deepens, and their commitment to cooperation grows. They are great role models for young readers, showing that when there is interest, we can all help in one way or another. Dream Big: The Hall of Champions is a realistic and inspiring story that addresses the topic of cancer in an original and meaningful way.

Dream Big: The Hall of Champions by Michael G. Velazquez follows Michael and Max, who decide to create a National Hall of Champions and Learning Center on Childhood Cancer, driven by a desire to honor children and their experiences. With guidance from their dad, they collaborate with friends, families, and medical staff to imagine spaces for play, learning, and remembrance, while directly engaging children undergoing treatment to understand their needs. The boys confront grief when they learn of a death, which strengthens their commitment to the project. Facing repeated rejections from sponsors and grants, they pivot to smaller initiatives, from school events to fundraisers and creative councils, while balancing everyday life. Over time, the project grows, and their work becomes an even greater shared effort in the hope that their vision of a supportive, interactive space becomes tangible.

Michael G. Velazquez’s Dream Big: The Hall of Champions is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the power of shared vision. I love how clearly Michael, Max, and their furry buddy really want to make a safe space for kids, and then move forward in transforming their ideas into real initiatives, from interactive rooms and artistic installations to community-driven projects. The standout to me is The Circle of Courage, a luminous centerpiece designed by a young patient, which beautifully illustrates how thoughtful contributions from children can shape experiences for many. As an adult who has been touched by the deeply painful and heartbreaking journey of a child suffering from cancer, Velazquez’s book touched my heart in a way I did not expect. The story is well written and appropriate for all ages, and both my daughter and I adored reading Dream Big together. Very highly recommended.

Dream Big: The Hall of Champions by Michael G. Velázquez tells the incredible story of two brothers, Michael and Max, and their loyal dog, OdieBoy, who are dedicated to supporting families and children affected by childhood cancer. The boys speak with several cancer patients, and after hearing about their numerous struggles, they decide to take much-needed action. They ask their family and friends for help, and eventually propose a special project, titled the Hall of Champions, as a space to celebrate the lives of brave children battling cancer. They were also able to garner feedback from patients, parents, and caregivers as part of bringing the Hall to life. They faced rejection and loss along the way, but the brothers did not give up. Through fundraising initiatives, innovative thinking, community networking, and persistence, their vision finally becomes a reality.

Michael G. Velázquez's Dream Big: The Hall of Champions is an inspirational story that blends adventure with realistic advocacy work, promoting cancer awareness, compassion, and genuine support for brave cancer survivors and their resilient families. Michael and Max's journey is a beautiful reminder that you do not have to go through someone’s struggle to care about it. In some cases, you just need to listen, empathize with their cause, help where possible, and inspire others to do the same. Its main message is that anyone, regardless of age or background, can make a difference by choosing to care and take small, consistent steps toward a bigger goal. Velázquez uses the brothers’ journey to model leadership and perseverance. Through Michael and Max's efforts, the author demonstrates that teamwork and community spirit can transform even the most challenging situations into meaningful progress. Overall, I truly enjoyed reading this book. Highly recommended.