Common Sense Media Review
By Monica Encarnacion
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Captivating bio of Latinx star of "West Side Story."
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
A GIRL NAMED ROSITA: THE STORY OF RITA MORENO: ACTOR, SINGER, DANCER, TRAILBLAZER! is an inspirational story about a little girl's dreams and her journey to fame. 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. In the book we see young Rosita working hard to overcome a language barrier and deal with the bullying she experienced as a child growing up in a strange new country. Rosita grows up and eventually makes her way to Hollywood with a dream to be a star. Once in Hollywood we see her fight to be seen and heard, eventually reaching success and landing her famous role as Anita in West Side Story. By the end of the book we see Rita winning her groundbreaking 1962 Oscar for Best Supporting Actress..
Is It Any Good?
This beautiful biographical picture book shines light on the inspirational life of talented trailblazer Rita Moreno. A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Tailblazer! is a powerful story to share with young readers, especially those who have big dreams and may need a little inspiration to work hard and achieve their full potential. Author Anika Aldamuy Denise's detailed storytelling transports readers back in time so they can experience the challenges Rosita faces as a Puerto Rican kid growing up in New York City. Leo Espinosa's colorful and stunning illustrations help draw the reader into Rosita's life, her childhood, her dreams, and her determination to become a star. By the end of the book, the reader feels invested in Rosita's plight and is ready to celebrate when her hard work and determination pays off and she becomes Rita Moreno, the Hollywood star she always dreamed of being.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Rosita's experience as a child in A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer! Have you ever moved to a new place or school? How did you feel? Were you ever bullied for being different? How did you struggle to fit in?
What is your big dream? What do you want to be when you grow up? What things could you do now to help you achieve that dream later in life?
Rosita received help and encouragement from several important people in her life, like, for example, her mom. Can you name an important person in your life who has helped you overcome challenges. How did this person encourage you?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Leo Espinosa
- Genre : Biography
- Topics : Arts , History
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : Harper Collins Publishers
- Publication date : November 3, 2020
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Hardback
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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