Children discovering the joys of reading and empowerment from Sonia Sotomayor's new book.
Washington, D.C., August 21, 2025
Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor is set to launch her new children’s book, ‘Just Shine,’ at George Washington University. The event, scheduled for September 18, will feature a discussion moderated by NPR’s Nina Totenberg, along with retired Judge David Stephen Tatel. The book, illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara, aims to empower youth to recognize their inner brilliance while stressing the importance of helping others shine. Tickets for the event are available online, promising an evening of inspiration and discourse on justice and literature.
Washington, D.C. – Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor is set to launch her new children’s book, Just Shine, during a special event at George Washington University on September 18 at 6 p.m. The event will take place at the Betts Theater and will include an engaging conversation featuring retired Circuit Judge David Stephen Tatel.
This event, presented in partnership with George Washington University and the Politics and Prose bookstore, will be moderated by legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg from National Public Radio. Participants can look forward to insightful discussions centered around the themes of Sotomayor’s inspiring book, which aims to encourage youth to recognize their own inner brilliance.
Illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara, Just Shine is designed not just as an enjoyable read for young readers, but also as a motivational tool. The book emphasizes the importance of helping others shine, conveying a powerful message that contributing to the well-being of others positively impacts society as a whole. According to Penguin Random House, the book seeks to empower children and instill a sense of confidence in their capabilities.
Sotomayor is marking 16 years since her landmark appointment to the Supreme Court, a position she was nominated for by former President Barack Obama. Her distinguished legal career includes significant roles such as serving on the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. With roots in the Bronx, New York, Sotomayor attended Princeton University and graduated from Yale Law School. She began her legal journey as an assistant district attorney for New York County before working as a litigator for Pavia & Harcourt.
Retired Judge David Stephen Tatel, who will share the stage with Sotomayor, has a long and influential career in law and civil rights. Nominated by President Bill Clinton to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, Tatel retired in January 2024 after a tenure that focused on civil rights, environmental law, and voting rights. He also contributed to legal education as a faculty member at the University of Michigan Law School, having obtained his education from the University of Michigan and the University of Chicago Law School.
Tickets for the event are available for purchase online, giving attendees an opportunity to witness a remarkable evening discussing justice, literature, and inspiration.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s multifaceted career in law, alongside her dedication to public service, places her in a unique position to inspire the next generation. As a first-generation college graduate, her life story is a testament to perseverance, making her an excellent role model for children and young adults.
Judge David Tatel’s contributions to various aspects of law and his commitment to civil rights reflect a profound understanding of justice and equality, further enriching the event’s narrative.
The book aims to help young readers recognize their own brilliance and emphasizes the importance of helping others shine.
The event features Justice Sonia Sotomayor and retired Judge David Stephen Tatel, moderated by NPR’s Nina Totenberg.
The event is set for September 18 at 6 p.m. at the Betts Theater at George Washington University.
Tickets can be purchased online.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Book Title | Just Shine |
| Authors | Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara |
| Event Date | September 18 |
| Location | Betts Theater, George Washington University |
| Moderated by | Nina Totenberg, National Public Radio |
| Special Guest | Retired Judge David Stephen Tatel |
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