Sonia Sotomayor

May 1, 2010
Gr 4-6-Well organized and straightforward, this biography is appealing with its bright photographs and bold, easy-to-read font. Starting with Sotomayor's childhood in the Bronx, the author covers the justice's life and career up to her nomination to the Supreme Court. She focuses on her subject's hard work and ambitious dreams, which led to her astounding achievements. The book includes a glossary but also defines select words within the text, making it accessible for all reading levels in the targeted age group. An informative, interesting, and, most of all, inspiring read."Sarah O'Holla, Village Community School, New York City"

Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2010
Grades 5-8 Introducing Sonia Sotomayor as the first Hispanic Supreme Court justice, this slim volume from the Gateway Biographies series provides a succinct, clearly written account of her life. Born to Puerto Rican parents in New York City, Sotomayor attended Princeton University and Yale Law School on scholarship and began practicing law in 1979. Her experience included work at the New York County district attorneys office, at a private law firm, and as a federal judge. When she joined the Supreme Court in 2009, she became the third woman on the high court. Simply and attractively designed, the book is illustrated with color snapshots and posed photos of Sotomayor, her family, the schools she attended, and other people and places mentioned in the text. Back matter includes a page of Fun Facts about Sotomayor, a short chronology, a glossary, source notes for quotes, and brief bibliographies. A good starting place for young people curious about Justice Sotomayor.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)