“[Doesn’t shy] away from the hard truths of Sotomayor’s childhood . . . [and] discusses real-world issues like racism, privilege, and affirmative action.” —The Washington Post ( )

This book came to me via a friend who picked it up as a gift for my 12-year-old niece at the Decatur Book Festival in September of 2019.

Sotomayor, who in 2009 became the first Latina Associate Justice, shared at the festival her new children’s picture book, “Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You,” illustrated by award-winning artist Rafael López.

Knowledge of Sonia’s life wasn’t well known to me. I’m not a huge fan of political and legal individuals, other than RBG of course, but that’s only because I’ve recently watched the movie and documentary about her life. I knew of her of course, but nothing about her struggles growing up in poverty and how education and working hard got her to where she is today.

But this book is an edited version of her original book so that middle grades can read about her life. Although I’m far removed from the middle grades I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book.

To be honest, I think this book might still be a bit of a hard read for middle grades. Seems a few other reviews thought that as well. I’m not that well versed on the judicial system as I suspect middle grades aren’t either and even I had a bit of a hard time understanding some of the terms and descriptions of what she was doing in the legal system as she progressed through her career.

There is a translation dictionary in the back for many of the Spanish words she uses throughout the book but not all of them. That was a bit annoying but I just looked them up on my phone. ( )

Sonia Sotomayor was just a girl when she dared to dream big. Her dream? To become a lawyer and a judge even though she’d never met one of either, and none lived in her neighborhood. Sonia did not let the hardships of her background—which included growing up in the rough housing projects of New York City’s South Bronx, dealing with juvenile diabetes, coping with parents who argued and fought personal demons, and worrying about money—stand in her way. Always, she believed in herself. Her determination, along with guidance from generous mentors and the unwavering love of her extended Puerto Rican family, propelled her ever forward.
Eventually, all of Sonia’s hard work led to her appointment as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court in 2009, a role that she has held ever since. Learn about Justice Sotomayor’s rise and her amazing work as well as about the Supreme Court in this fascinating memoir that shows that no matter the obstacles, dreams can come true. ( )

This book is the autobiography of Sonia Sotomayor, who is the third woman and the first Latina on the U.S. Supreme Court. This version is an adaptation for younger readers of her adult memoir, My Beloved World. She speaks of her challenging but loving childhood as a diabetic in a poor neighborhood with her Puerto Rican family. She dreamt of becoming a lawyer and eventually a judge. With a clear vision, hard work, and determination, Sotomayor made her dreams come true. Her story will inspire readers to stand up for themselves and to work toward their goals. Girls and Latino students in particular may relate to her experiences as a Puerto Rican girl, and readers of every kind will be inspired by her passion and authenticity.

Literary Merit: Great
Characterization: Great
Level: Middle School
Recommended: Highly Recommended

Sotomayor has adapted her book for adults into a stunning autobiography aimed squarely at children. Sotomayor never talks down to her audience, instead thoroughly inhabiting her childhood self in a way that will allow readers to feel both seen and understood. Kids will no doubt be able to see themselves in her book, and to appreciate the tragedies and triumphs Sotomayor describes. Her adult life is greatly abridged compared to her life as a child, teen, and young adult, but younger fans aren't likely to be bothered. What Sotomayor does so well in this book is make readers very aware of the challenges Sotomayor faced as part of a Puerto Rican family in the Bronx, detailing a difficult childhood and systemic societal hurdles that Sotomayor had to overcome to pursue her chosen career. By setting up a cousin consumed by addiction as a very tragic foil, Sotomayor is able to reflect on how her family and other supports helped her avoid a fate that could have very easily been her own. An inspiring and intelligent read. ( )