Justice Sonia Sotomayor to Release New Children’s Book “Just Shine!” About Being Yourself (Exclusive)

Justice Sonia Sotomayor Set to Launch a New Children’s Book ‘Just Shine!’ (Exclusive)

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor has exciting news for young readers! In an exclusive reveal, it has been announced that she will be releasing a new children’s picture book titled ‘Just Shine!’ The story, inspired by her late mother, Celina Báez, aims to empower children to embrace their uniqueness and illuminate the world around them.

Scheduled for release on September 9, ‘Just Shine! How to Be a Better You’ is a collaboration between Sotomayor, who penned the story, and illustrator Jacqueline Alcántara. Drawing from Báez’s ability to uplift others, the book follows a young girl from Puerto Rico who possesses the extraordinary gift of recognising the distinct qualities in others and helping them shine their brightest. Through empathy, hard work, and appreciation for individual beauty, the protagonist spreads light and positivity to everyone she meets.

The central message of the book is to demonstrate how supporting and uplifting others not only benefits individuals but also brightens the entire world. Sotomayor expressed that her mother’s teachings on kindness and respect were instrumental in shaping her success and character. She hopes that ‘Just Shine! How to Be a Better You’ will inspire children to discover the power of fostering others’ brilliance and creating a more compassionate world for all.

Jill Santopolo, Vice President and Publisher of Philomel, praised the book for celebrating the remarkable generosity of Sotomayor’s mother. She emphasised that understanding and championing others for who they are is a priceless gift that transcends age, resonating with readers of all generations.

This isn’t the first time Sotomayor has drawn inspiration from her mother’s legacy. Her previous work, ‘Just Help! How to Build a Better World’ released in 2022, reflected on Báez’s impact as a nurse in the Bronx. Through small acts of kindness and dedication, Báez made a lasting impression on her community and beyond, embodying a spirit of altruism that Sotomayor continues to honour through her storytelling.

In reminiscing about her mother, who passed away at the age of 94 in 2021, Sotomayor fondly recalled moments that showcased Báez’s vibrant and resilient spirit. Her eternal optimism, nurtured by her mother’s example, shines through in her writing, conveying a sense of hope and possibility to readers of all ages.

Philomel, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers, has been a supportive platform for Sotomayor’s literary endeavours. From her memoir ‘My Beloved World’ to her previous children’s books, Sotomayor has captivated audiences with her personal narratives and uplifting messages. ‘Just Shine! How to Be a Better You’ is set to continue her tradition of inspiring and empowering young minds.

Mark your calendars for the release of ‘Just Shine! How to Be a Better You’ on September 9 and join Sotomayor in spreading light and positivity through the simple act of supporting and celebrating others. Be sure to pre-order your copy and embark on a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and kindness with the guidance of Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s latest literary creation.