A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer!
by Anika Aldamuy Denise
illustrated by Leo Espinosa (Illustrator)
978-0062877703
November 3, 2020
Pura Belpré Honor winner Anika Aldamuy Denise (Planting Stories) and New York Times bestselling illustrator Leo Espinosa (Islandborn) tell the story of Rita Moreno, the Puerto Rican superstar best known for her Oscar-winning performance in the original West Side Story film, in this gorgeous picture book biography.
When young Rosita moved from Puerto Rico to the mainland United States, she didn’t know what to expect—but she knew she loved to sing and dance. Working to overcome the language barrier and bullying she experienced in a strange new country, Rita eventually made her way to Hollywood with a dream to be a star. There, she fought to be seen and heard and eventually reached the pinnacle of success, landing her iconic role in West Side Story and, finally, winning her groundbreaking Oscar.
Brought to life by Leo Espinosa’s bold and vibrant illustrations and Anika Aldamuy Denise’s lyrical text, this gorgeous tribute to the life and career of the first Latinx person to have earned an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award will inspire little dreamers everywhere.
Informative author’s note and timeline also included. A Spanish-language edition is also available.
An inspirational title for young elementary children. This energetic, illustrated biography honors her determined spirit with colorful exuberance. (School Library Journal (starred review))
Espinosa’s illustrations are as vibrant as the character he portrays….An inspiring account of a woman who followed her dreams. (Kirkus Reviews)
Leo Espinosa’s illustrations are lively and animate showing Rosita’s zest and perseverance. And the book is a positive and compelling look at the only Latinx performer to have earned a Peabody, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. (Boston Globe)
“Splashes of color pull readers into the past as the Spanish text dances across the page, concisely telling Rita’s story and grabbing readers’ attention, encouraging them to turn the page and discover more about this Latinx legend.” — Booklist (Review of the Spanish edition: Una niña llamada Rosita)