This book recounts, in dynamic free verse, the story of the first Hispanic to become a member of our nation’s highest court. Glossary, Chronology, Notes.

did not enjoy this retelling of Supreme Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s life for two reasons. First, the organization of the book was overwhelming. With passages on her mother and father’s memories (from their childhood), this book divulged too much on Sotomayor’s life to the point it became boring. For example, one of the pages is titled In Nueva York with her Tias. “Tia Gloria takes them to see El Circo starring a Mexican comedian Cantinflas. They come in late; see the end of half the movie. They stay and see the first half. They do not see the movie from beginning to end.” Although a cute anecdote, this story is not as important as other events in the judge’s life. The book is filled with these tidbits and quickly bored me.
Another reason I do not like this retelling of Sotomayor’s life is because of the point of view. With such an inspiring story, no book on Sotomayor’s life should be boring. Yet, this retelling does not provide suspense or intrigue. Mostly, it simply states emotional moments as facts. For example, the passage of Sotomayor’s first judicial nomination lacked excitement and depth. “In the year Sonia is easily confirmed, is the year she leaves behind a hefty income, a view of Manhattan, and Italian paintings for the excitement of wearing judicial robes.” This moment is one of Sotomayor’s most exciting. Unfortunately, the way it is described lacks emotion and becomes unrelatable for children and adults alike. The main idea of this book is that everyone is capable of becoming someone regardless of the color of our skin or gender. ( )

Informative overview of the justice's life written in free verse. Excellent back matter. Nice illustrations. ( )