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My Beloved World summary
Sonia Sotomayor
The memoir by the first Latina ever to serve on the US Supreme Court
14 mins
Brief summary
My Beloved World by Sonia Sotomayor is a memoir that tells the story of the first Hispanic and third woman to sit on the US Supreme Court. She shares her journey from a Bronx housing project to Ivy League schools and beyond, filled with obstacles and triumphs.
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My Beloved World
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For a Justice of the Supreme Court, Sonia Sotomayor’s childhood was far from typical.
Sonia Sotomayor was born into a Puerto Rican community in the troubled housing projects in the Bronx, New York in 1954. There, she lived within walking distance from a huge extended family of cousins, grandparents, aunts and uncles, many of whom barely spoke English.
Sotomayor’s family certainly didn’t have it easy. Her father’s alcoholism pushed her mother away from home. To avoid being there at the same time as her husband, which always resulted in heated arguments, Sotomayor’s mother spent her nights and weekends working as a nurse in a hospital.
The young Sonia, recognizing that her father was facing a struggle that was out of his control, still cared for him. Their trips to the grocery store – when her father taught her how to choose the best meat and the juiciest fruits, and would even give her a penny to buy herself candy – were always the highlight of her week.
Unfortunately, when she was seven, Sotomayor was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. This presented yet another challenge to the young girl, as neither her alcoholic father nor her anxious mother had steady enough hands to give Sotomayor the insulin shots she needed daily.
So she taught herself how to administer the shots by practicing on an orange. This experience gave her a powerful feeling of self-reliance: she knew then that she could count on herself to survive. The traits of discipline, perseverance and independence that Sotomayor had acquired through her early childhood experiences were strengths that drove her academic success during her school years.
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What is My Beloved World about?
My Beloved World (2013) is the memoir of Sonia Sotomayor, the third woman, and first Latina ever, to serve on the US Supreme Court. From her childhood hardships and her unlikely path to Princeton and Yale Law School to her first appointment as a judge, Sotomayor’s story is one of resilience, friendship and lifelong learning.
My Beloved World Review
My Beloved World (2013) is an inspiring memoir that chronicles the remarkable life of Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic and third woman appointed to the Supreme Court. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers insightful glimpses into Sotomayor's childhood and upbringing, revealing the challenges she faced and the strength she developed.
- The book delves into the complexities of the judicial system and Sotomayor's role as a Supreme Court Justice, providing a unique perspective on the American legal system.
- Sotomayor's honest and heartfelt storytelling captivates readers, as she shares personal anecdotes and reflects on the power of empathy and determination.
Best quote from My Beloved World
I saw my father receding from us, disappearing behind that twisted mask. It was like being trapped in a horror film.
—Sonia Sotomayor
Who should read My Beloved World?
- Law students interested in one woman’s road to the supreme court
- Law professionals who want to know more about one of the supreme court justices
- Anyone who likes reading about real-life examples of the American dream
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My Beloved World FAQs
What is the main message of My Beloved World?
My Beloved World is a story of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.
How long does it take to read My Beloved World?
The reading time for My Beloved World varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is My Beloved World a good book? Is it worth reading?
My Beloved World is worth reading for its inspiring and relatable story of overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Who is the author of My Beloved World?
Sonia Sotomayor is the author of My Beloved World.
What to read after My Beloved World?
If you're wondering what to read next after My Beloved World, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Tell Yourself a Better Lie by Marisa Peer
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