Sonia Manzano is an acclaimed actress and writer, celebrated for her iconic role as Maria on the long-running children's television series Sesame Street. Her contributions to the show extended beyond acting, as she also lent her talents as a scriptwriter, earning numerous accolades for her work. Beyond her television career, Manzano has engaged in theatrical performances, appearing in critically recognized productions and contributing her writing to other children's programs. As an author, she has focused on creating children's literature, with her books often exploring themes of family and cultural identity, aimed at fostering a love of reading in young audiences.
The book features an engaging bilingual story that encourages interaction, created by Emmy Award winner Sonia Manzano, known for her work on Sesame Street. Inspired by her animated series Alma's Way, it offers a delightful blend of English and Spanish, making it an ideal choice for young readers to explore language and culture while enjoying a heartwarming narrative.
The narrative explores the profound effects of the 1959 Cuban Revolution through the eyes of four children—Ana, Miguel, Zulema, and Juan—each from distinct backgrounds. As they navigate a transformed world, their individual stories intertwine, reflecting their journeys across Havana, the countryside, Miami, and New York. This inspiring tale highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the connections that persist amidst historical upheaval, emphasizing shared humanity during tumultuous times.
Sonia Manzano, Sesame Street 's beloved character Maria, brings warmth and wit to this timely picture book that looks across cultures and generations to celebrate what unites us, wherever we come from.Manzano's lyrical prose combined with stunning photography of people from dozens of countries around the world explores how all of our lives are enriched by our geographic and cultural diversity. Kids see how people around the world look, dress, and spend their day, and learn that what we enjoy and value--friends, family, food, play--may sometimes look different, but deep down is the same wherever you go.This lovely picture book from a first-generation American affirms our common humanity as it presents the glorious similarities and differences that connect us all. It's a charming book to share with friends and family and to read aloud with little ones. It has an inspiring With laugher and love, we can help bring a world together.
Set on Christmas Eve, the story captures the challenges of homesickness and holiday spirit through Jose's experiences. As his mother longs for Puerto Rico, the family's adventure to borrow an oven for their roast highlights the importance of community and tradition. The enticing smell of their meal rekindles joy and reminds neighbors of the festive spirit they share, transforming grumpiness into celebration.
The memoir offers a poignant coming-of-age story from a prominent figure known for her role as 'Maria' on Sesame Street and for winning the Pura Belpré Honor. It explores her experiences growing up, highlighting the cultural and personal challenges she faced. Through her narrative, she reflects on identity, resilience, and the impact of her heritage, providing readers with an intimate look at her journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.
Set against the backdrop of Spanish Harlem in 1969, the novel draws from the author's own experiences as a young Latina during a transformative period in America. It captures the passion and resilience of Latino youth as they strive to assert their identities and take charge of their futures amidst social upheaval. The narrative intertwines personal and cultural themes, reflecting the vibrant community and the challenges faced during this pivotal time in history.
Ruthie, inspired by Superman, eagerly anticipates a chance to be a hero while visiting her pregnant aunt. However, her excitement leads to distraction when she encounters a box of kittens, causing her to miss critical events unfolding at her aunt's apartment. Feeling devastated for missing her opportunity, Ruthie must confront her feelings of disappointment. Sonia Manzano, known for her role on "Sesame Street," beautifully portrays the warmth and adventures of childhood in the Bronx, emphasizing themes of aspiration, distraction, and resilience.
The story centers on a Puerto Rican family enjoying a day at the lake with their beloved pet, only to discover that dogs are prohibited on the beach. This picture-book debut by the actress and writer known for her role on "Sesame Street" captures the warmth of family bonds and the challenges of navigating rules while trying to have fun. Full-color illustrations enhance the narrative, bringing the family's adventure to life.