By Coral Gables Gazette staff

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor returns to South Florida for a live appearance hosted by Books & Books and the University of Miami, presenting her latest children’s book, Just Shine!: How to Be a Better You. The event takes place Friday, September 19, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Shalala Student Center (1330 Miller Drive, Coral Gables), and will include a reading, discussion, and book signing.

Tickets are $12.29 per person, with an option to bundle admission with a hardcover copy of Just Shine! or its Spanish edition, ¡Solo brilla! ($18.99). A purchased copy of the book is required to enter the signing line. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and seating is general admission within ticket tier. Pre-purchased books will be distributed upon entry.

A story about uplifting others

Just Shine! tells the story of a young girl growing up in Puerto Rico who discovers she has a unique gift: the ability to make others feel seen, valued, and inspired to do their best. Through listening, compassion, and encouragement, she helps those around her shine. The narrative draws inspiration from Sotomayor’s own mother, Celina Báez, a nurse who raised her children with warmth and resilience in the Bronx.

The book, written for children ages 4–8, is the latest in Sotomayor’s growing catalog of illustrated titles that promote empathy, self-acceptance, and community-mindedness. It is illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara, whose vivid, expressive style brings the story to life through movement and color. Published by Philomel Books, Just Shine! follows the success of Just Ask! and Just Help!, both of which also explore themes of civic kindness and everyday courage.

A Justice who writes for children

Sonia Sotomayor has served on the U.S. Supreme Court since 2009, when she became the first Latina justice in the nation’s history. Born in New York to Puerto Rican parents, she graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University and earned her law degree from Yale. Before joining the Court, she worked as an assistant district attorney and later served as a federal trial and appellate judge.

Though best known for her legal opinions, Sotomayor is also the author of several books for general audiences. Her memoir, My Beloved World, became a bestseller upon its release in 2013, chronicling her rise from a Bronx housing project to the federal bench. She has since adapted the memoir for younger readers in The Beloved World of Sonia Sotomayor, and written several picture books that focus on inclusion, compassion, and the power of individual action.

In interviews and past events, Sotomayor has emphasized that her children’s books are not side projects—they are central to how she views public service. “I write these books to spark reflection,” she has said, “and to help young people feel seen.”

Books & Books and UM collaboration

Books & Books, South Florida’s leading independent bookseller, frequently partners with local institutions to bring major literary and public figures to Coral Gables. This appearance continues a long-standing relationship between the store and the University of Miami, using the Shalala Student Center as a flexible venue that accommodates large audiences.

The store expects strong attendance for this appearance. Previous events featuring Sotomayor—whether tied to My Beloved World or her children’s titles—have drawn readers across generations. The signing line is open only to those with a purchased copy of Just Shine! or ¡Solo brilla!, but all of the Justice’s titles will be available for sale.

Remarks followed by moderated conversations

The evening begins with a short welcome and reading, followed by remarks from Sotomayor about the book’s inspiration and themes. A moderated conversation may follow, depending on schedule. The book signing will take place during the latter portion of the event, with staff directing attendees to manage flow and wait times.

Photography and video may be limited. Guests are encouraged to arrive early for best seating, and families are welcome—though the Justice is not expected to personalize books or pose for individual photos. The event will conclude at 8 p.m.