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Sofía Acosta Makes a Scene
A poignant, coming of age story about a Cuban-American girl trying to figure out where she belongs--both in her ballet-loving family and the wider world. Perfect for fans of Front Desk and Merci Suárez Changes Gears.
It's a good thing Sofía Acosta loves dreaming up costumes, because otherwise she's a ballet disaster--unlike her parents, who danced under prima ballerina Alicia Alonso before immigrating to the suburbs of New York. Luckily, when the Acostas host their dancer friends from Cuba for a special performance with the American Ballet Theatre, Sofía learns there's more than dance holding her family together. Between swapping stories about Cuba and sharing holiday celebrations, the Acostas have never been more of a team.
Then Sofía finds out about the dancers' secret plans to defect to the United States, and makes a serious mistake--she confides in her best friend, only to discover that Tricia doesn't want outsiders moving to their community. Now Sofía wonders what the other neighbors in her tight-knit suburban town really think of immigrant families like hers. Sofía doesn't want to make a scene, but if she doesn't speak up, how will she figure out if her family really belongs?
It's a good thing Sofía Acosta loves dreaming up costumes, because otherwise she's a ballet disaster--unlike her parents, who danced under prima ballerina Alicia Alonso before immigrating to the suburbs of New York. Luckily, when the Acostas host their dancer friends from Cuba for a special performance with the American Ballet Theatre, Sofía learns there's more than dance holding her family together. Between swapping stories about Cuba and sharing holiday celebrations, the Acostas have never been more of a team.
Then Sofía finds out about the dancers' secret plans to defect to the United States, and makes a serious mistake--she confides in her best friend, only to discover that Tricia doesn't want outsiders moving to their community. Now Sofía wonders what the other neighbors in her tight-knit suburban town really think of immigrant families like hers. Sofía doesn't want to make a scene, but if she doesn't speak up, how will she figure out if her family really belongs?
288 pages, Library Binding
First published January 25, 2022
12 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 6, 2022
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene centers around Sofia and her family who live in a suburb of Pine Hill which isn't too far away from NYC. The family is extremely involved in the dance community. Sofia and her siblings take dance and her parents are former dancers, but still do some work within the community. Although all three are given parts in the upcoming production of the Nutcracker, Sofia would rather spend creating costumes then practicing to make herself better for her role. This novel explores a little bit of everything from family dynamics, to friendships, to race relations within the Latinx community.
One of the parts that I enjoyed the most about this book was the examination of familial expectations versus personal passions. It's clear from the beginning of the novel that Sofia has a knack for costume design and that it would be her preference to do this instead of actually dancing. I think that we frequently attribute familial aspirations, particularly parental desires, to certain cultures but its a phenomena that I think a lot of kids can relate to. I also enjoyed the grey areas of friendship that Otheguy explored with Sofia, Tricia, and Laurita. There were some tense moments especially those that were focused on race; however, the overall theme about changing friendships is something that a lot of middle grade readers will connect with. It was a great point to reiterate that you'll find friendships in the most unlikely of ways.
Unfortunately, I think that there were some areas of this book where execution failed. There were moments where I felt as though too much was going in terms of the plot. There was the conflict between Sofia and Tricia, Sofia's attempt to navigate her relationship with Laurita, the conversations of about what "type" of immigrant was "better" than others, the conflict that arises because of the building plans for new low income apartment homes in the community, the conflict between Sofia and her parents, and then the conversation revolving defecting when a family friend and her son come to visit from Cuba. I think that each one of these plot points produced valid and valuable conversations; however, it was too much for the length of this book. It left some important points of the plot underdeveloped and the rest of the text chaotic.
Overall, I think that this was a solid read and a story that many middle grade readers will enjoy. It was quick and easy with solid writing and character development.
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene centers around Sofia and her family who live in a suburb of Pine Hill which isn't too far away from NYC. The family is extremely involved in the dance community. Sofia and her siblings take dance and her parents are former dancers, but still do some work within the community. Although all three are given parts in the upcoming production of the Nutcracker, Sofia would rather spend creating costumes then practicing to make herself better for her role. This novel explores a little bit of everything from family dynamics, to friendships, to race relations within the Latinx community.
One of the parts that I enjoyed the most about this book was the examination of familial expectations versus personal passions. It's clear from the beginning of the novel that Sofia has a knack for costume design and that it would be her preference to do this instead of actually dancing. I think that we frequently attribute familial aspirations, particularly parental desires, to certain cultures but its a phenomena that I think a lot of kids can relate to. I also enjoyed the grey areas of friendship that Otheguy explored with Sofia, Tricia, and Laurita. There were some tense moments especially those that were focused on race; however, the overall theme about changing friendships is something that a lot of middle grade readers will connect with. It was a great point to reiterate that you'll find friendships in the most unlikely of ways.
Unfortunately, I think that there were some areas of this book where execution failed. There were moments where I felt as though too much was going in terms of the plot. There was the conflict between Sofia and Tricia, Sofia's attempt to navigate her relationship with Laurita, the conversations of about what "type" of immigrant was "better" than others, the conflict that arises because of the building plans for new low income apartment homes in the community, the conflict between Sofia and her parents, and then the conversation revolving defecting when a family friend and her son come to visit from Cuba. I think that each one of these plot points produced valid and valuable conversations; however, it was too much for the length of this book. It left some important points of the plot underdeveloped and the rest of the text chaotic.
Overall, I think that this was a solid read and a story that many middle grade readers will enjoy. It was quick and easy with solid writing and character development.
March 13, 2023
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene is a sweet, thought-provoking middle grade book about finding one’s path, recognizing inequality, and handling prejudice when it comes from unexpected places. This book is suffused with Cuban history and culture, ballet, family love, and a sense of community. While the protagonist is in her last year of elementary school, this book is sure to be loved by younger and older middle grade readers alike.
Full review: https://readingmiddlegrade.com/sofia-...
Full review: https://readingmiddlegrade.com/sofia-...
January 15, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book.
I love reading a story that teaches me about current social issues and their historical roots without feeling like a school lesson. This ballet-infused story set in New York City does just that as it addresses family, community, belonging and immigration from a Cuban perspective.
Sofia’s parents were ballet dancers who moved to New York City from Cuba before she was born. Both of her siblings are talented dancers, but Sofia would rather spend time working on costumes for her dolls than practicing dance steps. Sofia thinks she has to be a ballet dancer to be part of her family, but what if it’s not her thing? She needs to find the courage to speak up at home and with her best friend, who doesn’t appreciate why her Cuban heritage is important. She also wants to find a voice to support other immigrants who deserve the opportunity to be part of their community. As she faces challenges with her role in The Nutcracker, a school project about a proposed neighbourhood housing development for immigrants, and a secret involving family friends from Cuba who’ve come to New York for a performance, she learns being an Acosta is more about love than ballet.
I liked the importance of a community that runs throughout this book. Sofia’s family is affectionately called the “Acosta Accordion” by a neighbour as it expands to include so many people around them. They have a genuinely welcoming home that brings together a mix of characters and cultures, and I wished that I would be invited for dinner and to hang out for an evening. I learned more about the complicated relationship between the United States and Cuba and the difficulties faced by separated families. It’s a timely novel with important themes that I think middle-grade readers will enjoy.
I love reading a story that teaches me about current social issues and their historical roots without feeling like a school lesson. This ballet-infused story set in New York City does just that as it addresses family, community, belonging and immigration from a Cuban perspective.
Sofia’s parents were ballet dancers who moved to New York City from Cuba before she was born. Both of her siblings are talented dancers, but Sofia would rather spend time working on costumes for her dolls than practicing dance steps. Sofia thinks she has to be a ballet dancer to be part of her family, but what if it’s not her thing? She needs to find the courage to speak up at home and with her best friend, who doesn’t appreciate why her Cuban heritage is important. She also wants to find a voice to support other immigrants who deserve the opportunity to be part of their community. As she faces challenges with her role in The Nutcracker, a school project about a proposed neighbourhood housing development for immigrants, and a secret involving family friends from Cuba who’ve come to New York for a performance, she learns being an Acosta is more about love than ballet.
I liked the importance of a community that runs throughout this book. Sofia’s family is affectionately called the “Acosta Accordion” by a neighbour as it expands to include so many people around them. They have a genuinely welcoming home that brings together a mix of characters and cultures, and I wished that I would be invited for dinner and to hang out for an evening. I learned more about the complicated relationship between the United States and Cuba and the difficulties faced by separated families. It’s a timely novel with important themes that I think middle-grade readers will enjoy.
Want to read
July 21, 2021omg, this sounds adorable! YES YES YES. front desk and merci suarez are my two of my favorite middle grade books, I can't wait
February 1, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book! Emma Otheguy explores immigration and how hard it can be to find your voice when you are only 10 years old. Sofia and her family are Cuban and lucky enough to be excellent ballerinas, well, everyone but Sofia. Sofia is on a journey of self-discovery throughout the book. She loves sewing, not dance. She loves being Cuban but not arguing with her best friend about it. How can she be a proud Acosta without dance? How can she be a proud Cuban without offending her friend? Sofia discovers the answers to these questions throughout the book.
There is a lot of important information. It's well written and hits on some hard topics in a way that kids can understand and learn from. There were times I was lost in too much detail of the chaotic Acosta house, but that would be my only critic. Otherwise this book was great.
There is a lot of important information. It's well written and hits on some hard topics in a way that kids can understand and learn from. There were times I was lost in too much detail of the chaotic Acosta house, but that would be my only critic. Otherwise this book was great.
January 14, 2022
This was a very touching middle grade story focusing on important issues. It also has a gorgeous cover with such pretty art! Sofia Acosta does not fit in amongst her amazing ballet family. Her parents danced under prima ballerina Alicia Alonso before they immigrated to the New York suburbs. Where they host dancer friends from Cuba for a performance with the American Ballet Theatre, Sofia learns wonderful things about her family and their connections. However, the dancers’ secret plans to defect to the US bring new complications, like the place of immigrant families like hers in the eyes of the tight-knit suburban town.
I haven’t read that much middle-grade recently, so it was nice to read something a bit different. This book felt very real. Sofia was so relatable! She was just trying to figure out her place and her family’s place. She was dealing with big issues of loyalty, privilege, family, and belonging. As she figures it out, there is conflict with her friends, amidst her family, and in her community.. Of course, Sofia is still only in 5th grade and is still processing and learning. I think it was shown realistically, but I did wish she was able to have a conversation with her family at some point. There were definitely some points where I was a little bit embarrassed for her as she tried to figure out her ever-shifting world.
It was nice to see how she began to see different perspectives and that though it changed some of her relationships, it did not break any of them. It was really sweet to see her family, the “Acosta accordion”, it reminds me of some of the stories I have heard about my own family. I also appreciated how they did their best to support Sofia, even if they did not quite do it perfectly.
Overall, this was a sweet middle-grade novel dealing with some deep issues. I am not completely sure if I agree with all that is chosen to be done and different characters have different views throughout the book. However, it is a great way for young people to start learning a bit more through a story and to start thinking about these topics. It is also cool for readers to see themselves and their families in stories like these!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
I haven’t read that much middle-grade recently, so it was nice to read something a bit different. This book felt very real. Sofia was so relatable! She was just trying to figure out her place and her family’s place. She was dealing with big issues of loyalty, privilege, family, and belonging. As she figures it out, there is conflict with her friends, amidst her family, and in her community.. Of course, Sofia is still only in 5th grade and is still processing and learning. I think it was shown realistically, but I did wish she was able to have a conversation with her family at some point. There were definitely some points where I was a little bit embarrassed for her as she tried to figure out her ever-shifting world.
It was nice to see how she began to see different perspectives and that though it changed some of her relationships, it did not break any of them. It was really sweet to see her family, the “Acosta accordion”, it reminds me of some of the stories I have heard about my own family. I also appreciated how they did their best to support Sofia, even if they did not quite do it perfectly.
Overall, this was a sweet middle-grade novel dealing with some deep issues. I am not completely sure if I agree with all that is chosen to be done and different characters have different views throughout the book. However, it is a great way for young people to start learning a bit more through a story and to start thinking about these topics. It is also cool for readers to see themselves and their families in stories like these!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
August 12, 2022
i know that i say this all the time but i just am so happy that middle grade literature is so diverse and that kids growing up now have stories and characters that they can see themselves in. representation is so important and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. what a lovely story about learning how to speak up for yourself and others, and that there's no "right" way to be part of your culture and family
January 12, 2023
This was the first novel I read by Emma Otheguy. I met Emma several years ago when we attend a conference. I’m very happy for her and the success of her career. I loved that this book was about ballet (the Nutcracker to be exact) but ended in a completely different way than what I expected. Thanks.
October 6, 2022
While there was a bit more telling than showing, and LOTS of issues brought up, they are not necessarily commonly broached in middle grade.
Family pressure to belong to their special culture/talent (ballet)
Need to be stellar as an immigrant (US only wants the BEST...)
People who "value diversity" but only certain kinds i.e white (e.g. celebrate Irish teachers's citizenship) or not economic
History of US immigration policies: Open (Ellis Island), then quotas (no Asians, 2% of countries here already), now family reunification or refugees
Kids of immigrants--lose their culture? Can they ever understand what their ancestors gave up, lived through?
"Defection" what a term!
Finding one's OWN interests
BFF's forever? Speaking up to a friend, and in public
Keeping your promises
Economic diversity--country clubs, parents volunteering instead of paying fees.
Family pressure to belong to their special culture/talent (ballet)
Need to be stellar as an immigrant (US only wants the BEST...)
People who "value diversity" but only certain kinds i.e white (e.g. celebrate Irish teachers's citizenship) or not economic
History of US immigration policies: Open (Ellis Island), then quotas (no Asians, 2% of countries here already), now family reunification or refugees
Kids of immigrants--lose their culture? Can they ever understand what their ancestors gave up, lived through?
"Defection" what a term!
Finding one's OWN interests
BFF's forever? Speaking up to a friend, and in public
Keeping your promises
Economic diversity--country clubs, parents volunteering instead of paying fees.
February 27, 2023
Sofia comes from a Cuban-American family of ballet dancers. Her older sister is on track to dance professionally and her younger brother already shows great promise. Meanwhile, she can’t master downbeats and upbeats in her big scene in the upcoming performance of the Nutcracker. When her mother’s best friend and her son Alvaro visit from Cuba so Alvaro can dance at the American Ballet Theatre, Sofia overhears them argue about Alvaro’s plan to defect. With a new housing project being discussed in their small town, sides are taken and Sofia starts to find her own voice and her own path, not just in her family buy in her community too.
February 3, 2022
A book that felt so close to home, because these past few years I’ve noticed how hard it is to stay friends with people just because we’ve been friends for a long time and have fun together. What they stand for… it means a lot. Everything, really. And sweet Sofia had to face this much earlier in life than I did- and I adored her story and the realistic feel to her choices. Absolutely loved the emphasis on her Cuban family and the passion she had for their story and history.
January 29, 2022
Sofia Acosta may only be in fifth grade, but she knows what it’s like to struggle to fit in. Her parents teach dance at the local high school for the performing arts. As former professional members of a professional ballet troupe, they have a lot to offer their students. Born in Cuba, they found their way to America through ballet, and it’s a huge part of the family. Sofia’s older sister Regina is already dancing on pointe and wants to join the American Ballet Theatre one day. Her younger brother Manuel is also a dancer with a lot of natural talent.
Sofia goes to dance class every week, and she’s excited to audition for The Nutcracker, but she’s even more mesmerized by the costumes that ballerinas wear. Truth be told, as much as she’s hoping to be in the Party Scene of the ballet, she’s just as excited to add some new lace and decorations to the Party Scene costumes that are looking a little worn.
At school. her teacher Mr. Fallon has just become a citizen of the United States, and the class is planning a party to celebrate that with the help of the school secretary. Sofia was hoping to be on the Decoration Committee with her best friend Tricia, but instead she gets put on the History and Contexts Committee with Laura, who is known as the Bad News Machine for her views on social issues.
And then she finds out that The Ballet Nacional de Cuba is putting on a show with the American Ballet Theatre, and her mother’s best friend when they were younger, Yolanda, is coming with her son Alvano is coming to dance. Sofia is excited, and she can’t wait for them to come to America. They’ll be living with the Acostas for three months, and Sofia is really looking forward to spending time with them and getting to know them better.
But the more time Sofia spends with Yolanda and Alvano, hearing about the Cuba of today, and the more she spends time with Laura, researching the way immigrants have been treated in America since the days of Ellis Island, the more Sofia notices the small moments of racism that she and her family face. But what will she decide to do about it?
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene is a charming middle grade book with engaging characters and lots of interesting information for kids who are interested in ballet or in social justice issues. There is a lot going on in the story, and in the Acosta house, but that energy keeps the story moving forward. Sofia is a sweetheart, wanting to do her best for everyone and trying to find her own place as well, which I think kids will relate to.
Personally, I love Sofia’s spirit and her generosity, her honesty and her loyalty. I like how she develops her voice and thinks through the things that are bothering her before she takes action. She is her own person, and she makes her own way through life. Even though not everyone around her recognizes her gifts, she tries to share them anyway, grateful for all the good things that have happened for her family. And then the awareness of racism in their neighborhood, growing as Sofia pays more attention to her friends and family, is a poignant reminder of the reality of daily life for some immigrants, building empathy and compassion in readers. This is a good story with a good message, and a lot of fun as well.
Egalleys for Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene were provided by Random House Children’s (Knopf Books for Young Readers) through NetGalley, with many thanks.
Sofia goes to dance class every week, and she’s excited to audition for The Nutcracker, but she’s even more mesmerized by the costumes that ballerinas wear. Truth be told, as much as she’s hoping to be in the Party Scene of the ballet, she’s just as excited to add some new lace and decorations to the Party Scene costumes that are looking a little worn.
At school. her teacher Mr. Fallon has just become a citizen of the United States, and the class is planning a party to celebrate that with the help of the school secretary. Sofia was hoping to be on the Decoration Committee with her best friend Tricia, but instead she gets put on the History and Contexts Committee with Laura, who is known as the Bad News Machine for her views on social issues.
And then she finds out that The Ballet Nacional de Cuba is putting on a show with the American Ballet Theatre, and her mother’s best friend when they were younger, Yolanda, is coming with her son Alvano is coming to dance. Sofia is excited, and she can’t wait for them to come to America. They’ll be living with the Acostas for three months, and Sofia is really looking forward to spending time with them and getting to know them better.
But the more time Sofia spends with Yolanda and Alvano, hearing about the Cuba of today, and the more she spends time with Laura, researching the way immigrants have been treated in America since the days of Ellis Island, the more Sofia notices the small moments of racism that she and her family face. But what will she decide to do about it?
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene is a charming middle grade book with engaging characters and lots of interesting information for kids who are interested in ballet or in social justice issues. There is a lot going on in the story, and in the Acosta house, but that energy keeps the story moving forward. Sofia is a sweetheart, wanting to do her best for everyone and trying to find her own place as well, which I think kids will relate to.
Personally, I love Sofia’s spirit and her generosity, her honesty and her loyalty. I like how she develops her voice and thinks through the things that are bothering her before she takes action. She is her own person, and she makes her own way through life. Even though not everyone around her recognizes her gifts, she tries to share them anyway, grateful for all the good things that have happened for her family. And then the awareness of racism in their neighborhood, growing as Sofia pays more attention to her friends and family, is a poignant reminder of the reality of daily life for some immigrants, building empathy and compassion in readers. This is a good story with a good message, and a lot of fun as well.
Egalleys for Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene were provided by Random House Children’s (Knopf Books for Young Readers) through NetGalley, with many thanks.
November 29, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Random House Kids for the gifted book that I read along with the library audio.
Sofia has grown up in a ballet centric home just outside of New York. Her Cuban American family lives and breathes ballet. Both her parents were professional dancers, her sister is a ballet prodigy, and her brother shows immense promise. However, Sofia is a bit of a ballet disaster. She would rather be dreaming up beautiful costumes than drilling 8 counts to perfection. But when one of her parent's friends from Cuba comes to visit with her talented son who is going to be a featured ballerina at the American Ballet Theatre, Sofia has to face what it means to be an Acosta and what it means to be a Cuban American.
I really enjoyed this book and this deep dive into a sub culture of America that I only know tangentially. I grew up dancing, but as someone who is height challenged I never had aspirations to be a professional ballerina. I didn't know the strong Cuban connection to ballet and I loved this exploration of how to fit into your family, how to harness your dreams, how to reconcile your ties to two countries and more. I was entertained throughout and thought this would make a great book for children and parents to discuss.
Sofia has grown up in a ballet centric home just outside of New York. Her Cuban American family lives and breathes ballet. Both her parents were professional dancers, her sister is a ballet prodigy, and her brother shows immense promise. However, Sofia is a bit of a ballet disaster. She would rather be dreaming up beautiful costumes than drilling 8 counts to perfection. But when one of her parent's friends from Cuba comes to visit with her talented son who is going to be a featured ballerina at the American Ballet Theatre, Sofia has to face what it means to be an Acosta and what it means to be a Cuban American.
I really enjoyed this book and this deep dive into a sub culture of America that I only know tangentially. I grew up dancing, but as someone who is height challenged I never had aspirations to be a professional ballerina. I didn't know the strong Cuban connection to ballet and I loved this exploration of how to fit into your family, how to harness your dreams, how to reconcile your ties to two countries and more. I was entertained throughout and thought this would make a great book for children and parents to discuss.
March 9, 2022
Sofia's family is a strong Cuban ballet family. Sofia is determined to dance ballet, to be in all the scenes even though her rhythm is terrible. Her fifth grade year, this all comes to a head as she gets bigger, the role gets more important and the steps get harder. How will she make it work? How much will she need to practice?
And of course, in between this, there is the matter of friendship. Is her best friend Tricia becoming better friends with Stella? Why is Sofia stuck working with Laurita on a project? You can see some of the threads coming together as an adult but I think the way they come together feels right. I loved Laurita's straightforward take on everything, and love for softball. I would read a follow up to this book even though it doesn't need one. The Acosta family is full of characters, and their house is full of family and with their help, Sofia can make a scene and find her way.
And of course, in between this, there is the matter of friendship. Is her best friend Tricia becoming better friends with Stella? Why is Sofia stuck working with Laurita on a project? You can see some of the threads coming together as an adult but I think the way they come together feels right. I loved Laurita's straightforward take on everything, and love for softball. I would read a follow up to this book even though it doesn't need one. The Acosta family is full of characters, and their house is full of family and with their help, Sofia can make a scene and find her way.
April 22, 2022
If you asked Sofia Acosta what makes her family special, she would say that they're all dancers. Her parents danced professionally in Cuba before coming to the U.S. and now they teach at the local high school. Sofia and both her siblings have grown up in ballet class. But in her 6th grade year when she is finally old enough to be in the dance party scene in her community's annual performance of the Nutcracker, Sofia finds herself struggling to master all of the steps. She is struggling to find extra time to practice with all of the other things going on in her life. Family friends visiting, spats with her best friend, a new friend who expects more from her, and opposition in her community for a new apartment building that may attract more minorities. There are a lot of issues, but Otheguy does a good job of bringing them all together. Sofia is likeable and relatable, and the immigrant issue is well thought out and presented.
December 2, 2021
Sofia comes from a family of dancers. Everyone can dance in her family, except her, but she muddles along anyway. Her sister is as talented as their parents. She is good at designing costumes, and would rather do that, but figures because she is an Acosta, the only choice she has is to dance.
The conflict is not so much that a Cuban dancer is going to defect, which is what the synopsis of this book claims, but that a new apartment building is going to be built for low income people, and some of the people already living there, don't want "those sorts" moving in. Sofia thinks it will be great that people can live closer to where they work.
Good middle grade story about speaking out for things that you have to speak out for.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
The conflict is not so much that a Cuban dancer is going to defect, which is what the synopsis of this book claims, but that a new apartment building is going to be built for low income people, and some of the people already living there, don't want "those sorts" moving in. Sofia thinks it will be great that people can live closer to where they work.
Good middle grade story about speaking out for things that you have to speak out for.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
August 6, 2022
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene is a terrific middle grade book. I am trying to read more middle grade books with Latina characters, and this was a great choice. I listened to the audiobook, which was terrific since there is some Spanish language in the text. The narrator did an amazing job. I also love that the main character is involved in the production of The Nutcracker. Our school performs the musical each year, so I think that will draw some students in. The social issues were addressed expertly for middle grade readers. At first, the main character is unaware of the issues. Over time, she gains information and passion to advocate for change. I also thought Sofia's identity as a ballet dancer was handled well. It was as though others spotted it before she did, which was interesting and felt genuine.
November 20, 2022
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene is the story of a 5th grade daughter of Cuban immigrants. Ballet is the Acosta family's identity, and all are getting ready to dance in the Nutcracker. However, is ballet really Sofia's niche? Is it possible to be part of her family without being a prima ballerina?
I loved the Spanish language woven into this story. The Acosta family slips between the two languages in such a natural way, code-switching smoothly depending on the audience. I do feel like it would be helpful to know some Spanish when reading the book, though the author reveals enough in context that it is not necessary.
The social issues addressed in the story start to accumulate as it advances, moreso than I expected. However, I appreciated how Sofia begins to grow into herself and the awareness of the ways kids can be welcoming of immigrants.
I loved the Spanish language woven into this story. The Acosta family slips between the two languages in such a natural way, code-switching smoothly depending on the audience. I do feel like it would be helpful to know some Spanish when reading the book, though the author reveals enough in context that it is not necessary.
The social issues addressed in the story start to accumulate as it advances, moreso than I expected. However, I appreciated how Sofia begins to grow into herself and the awareness of the ways kids can be welcoming of immigrants.
September 21, 2024
4.5 stars. I enjoyed this novel, and I found it very compelling and relatable. And, as important as it was to the story, the ballet didn't take over. If anything, its constant presence as someone who isn't into dance emphasized how it felt for Sofia to not be passionate about something that was such a heavy influence in her life. It was important, but, as Sofia realizes, there's more to life than just ballet. I think kids can relate to that feeling of trying to figure out where you fit in, growing apart from friends and even parts of your family as you each strive for your own goals and dreams, and growing toward others who see the real you. The information about immigration shed light on an important topic in a way that we don't usually see, and it can definitely spark conversations and questions about our country and those who want to join it. Overall, a good read.
December 13, 2021
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in return for an honest review.
Sofia comes from a family of dancers. As a Cuban and as an Acosta she feels that the only way to be accepted is to be a good ballerina...but she struggles. A lot. And she is really passionate about costume design but feels like she needs to keep this interest hidden. During the story Sofia learns a lot about what it means to speak up, both for yourself and others. There were some points where I felt the point of the book was made more directly than I like, I usually prefer the point to be made through storytelling, but I thought this was a good book and will be particularly appealing to MG readers passionate about ballet.
Sofia comes from a family of dancers. As a Cuban and as an Acosta she feels that the only way to be accepted is to be a good ballerina...but she struggles. A lot. And she is really passionate about costume design but feels like she needs to keep this interest hidden. During the story Sofia learns a lot about what it means to speak up, both for yourself and others. There were some points where I felt the point of the book was made more directly than I like, I usually prefer the point to be made through storytelling, but I thought this was a good book and will be particularly appealing to MG readers passionate about ballet.
January 3, 2022
Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene is a MG book about a Cuban girl from a ballet family that doesn't feel like she fits in. Even though she works really hard, she can't seem to get the steps down for her part in the Nutcracker. Sofia has always thought she had to be a ballet dancer to fit in. After she helps with the costumes, she finds she can contribute without having to dance. She also learns the best part about her family is not the ballet, but that they welcome everyone. In the end, Sofia learns to pursue her own passions, speak up for herself, and not just try and make everyone else happy. A good message for all who want to fit in at Middle School.
January 31, 2022
3.5 stars and that last half is for seeing my culture represented in the book.
My mom is Cuban and Alicia Alonso, Ballet Nacional de Cuba, and American Ballet theater loomed large in my childhood. However, they loomed larger in Sofía Acosta's life as her parents were Cuban ballet dancers who had danced under Alonso's tutelage. I picked up this book excited that a middle grade novel could hopefully reflect some of my childhood.
In that sense I was not disappointed, but ultimately Otheguy tried to tackle too many themes and there are only so many nearly perfect resolutions this old lady can take.
My mom is Cuban and Alicia Alonso, Ballet Nacional de Cuba, and American Ballet theater loomed large in my childhood. However, they loomed larger in Sofía Acosta's life as her parents were Cuban ballet dancers who had danced under Alonso's tutelage. I picked up this book excited that a middle grade novel could hopefully reflect some of my childhood.
In that sense I was not disappointed, but ultimately Otheguy tried to tackle too many themes and there are only so many nearly perfect resolutions this old lady can take.
June 14, 2022
4.5 Although it ends on a soft note and uses the phrase "Party Scene" an obscene amount of times, Emma Otheguy's middle-grade fiction awakening to racism, inclusion, and belonging hits the perfect balance between relatable friendship drama and the seemingly insurmountable political divide that can erupt between individuals, families and communities. Sofia's relatively small potatoes journey covers a great deal of ground from immigrant exceptionalism to faltering under the weight of family expectations. Written with nuance yet still approachable for its intended audience, Sofia Acosta has a lot to say for those of us with the courage to hear the message.
November 4, 2022
Sofia is part of a large immigrant Cuban ballet family full of love. Her house is always full of friends and family coming and going. As the family prepares to dance the Nutcracker, it becomes evident that Sofia will not be a career ballet dancer and she fears the loss of her family's love and respect. She puts her own interests aside in the hopes of dragging some latent talent out of herself, to no avail. Meanwhile, friendship drama brews in their upscale neighborhood where they don't exactly fit in due to their Latinx immigrant "ness". An absorbing story about the courage it takes to be yourself in front of others and the challenges of being non-white and non-rich in suburban America.
November 5, 2021
This is a story about a Cuban-American girl who’s just trying to fit in with her ballet-loving family and white friends. I love books about dance, being a dancer myself, and I love middle grade novels. Especially ones that focus on diversity and fitting in so I had high hopes for this book. It definitely did not disappoint. I found it so so so great and I think it would be a great addition to classrooms regardless of the age group. I loved every character, but especially Laurita, who spoke her truth always. This is a really important read for the younger readers. I really recommend it.
December 20, 2021
“Sofía Acosta makes a scene” has many similarities to Meg Medina’s 2019 Newbery winning title “Merci Suárez changes gears” with its themes of family, love and tough decisions that need to be made. Pairing Sofía with Merci would create interesting discussions with young readers. Read more about this book on my blog. By the way, are you following my blog? If not, why not? Go to the blog and enter your email address to get my full reviews in your mailbox. It's that easy!: https://shouldireaditornot.wordpress....
February 5, 2022
A well written middle grades novel about a girl finding her voice and place in her family. Sofia Acosta begins to learn about immigration through school when her teacher becomes a citizen. Her own parents immigrated from Cuba years earlier. The differences her teacher’s path to citizenship from Ireland vs family and friends immigration stories from Latin American countries begin to open her eyes to the injustices in her community. Throughout the story, Sofia learns all friendships are not the same, to always stand up for what you believe in, and to be proud of your heritage.
January 14, 2022
3.5 stars. Sofia Acosta spends the first half of fifth grade learning how to value both her family and her personal interests! It’s really cool to read about her Cuban immigrant family and friends and their love of ballet. The book at points drags and may be too long for some middle grade readers, but I think this book will be a hit for strong readers and an engaging story to share as a class or family read along.
January 18, 2022
Middle Grade novel that speaks about how friendships and interests change as you approach teen years 🩰🪡🧵
❤️Cuban immigrant family
❤️ Real & lovable lead
❤️ BALLET!
❤️ Finding your own niche in family
Sofia Acosta is great for:
- Fans of Encanto! There’s music, there’s family, there’s secrets and there’s ✨character growth✨
- Young readers heading into middle school soon
- A family who want something fun to read together that can also lead to impactful discussion
❤️Cuban immigrant family
❤️ Real & lovable lead
❤️ BALLET!
❤️ Finding your own niche in family
Sofia Acosta is great for:
- Fans of Encanto! There’s music, there’s family, there’s secrets and there’s ✨character growth✨
- Young readers heading into middle school soon
- A family who want something fun to read together that can also lead to impactful discussion
August 9, 2022
I liked how the author addressed immigration issues, and what stuck out to me was the attitude some people have that it's OK for white Europeans who speak English to come to the US, but it's NOT OK for Latinos or others because of the color of their skin or what language they speak? America is a melting pot and just about everyone living in the US today is either an immigrant or a descendant of one.
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