Justice Sonia Sotomayor visits Third Place Books

Third Place Books

Story and photos by Donna Hawkey

The parking lot at Third Place Books in Lake Forest Park was jammed on Friday night, September 12, 2025. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor was arriving there for a quickly sold-out book-signing and talk event for her children’s book, "Just Shine: How to Be a Better You."

People started lining up at 4pm for the 6pm event

Many people lined up at 4:00pm to secure the best seats and views for the 6:00pm event. Children came dressed in their best outfits, and adults without children were also eagerly waiting in line.

Eight hundred seats were set up in front of the Third Place Commons stage, which was at capacity. 

Security officials, including Lake Forest Park police officers, were everywhere at the Town Center to ensure a safe visit for all.

Sonia Sotomayor's book "Just Shine" is about a girl in Puerto Rico who possesses an exceptional ability to help everyone around her shine. It’s also about the author’s own journey with her mother throughout her life. 

This little girl got a book, a hug
from the Justice, and ice cream, too

And while some young children may only remember meeting her by the pictures or in the excitement of the crowded room, "Just Shine" will be read and reread in their own parents' or guardians' voices. This book is really for everyone.

For the children sitting in the back who could not see the Justice, she walked down the aisles and gave out hugs. 

This child received one of those hugs and also enjoyed the treat of ice cream, too.