Path to the Stars: My Journey from Girl Scout to Rocket Scientist

Gr 5 Up—A gem of an autobiography. As a girl growing up in New Mexico in the 1950's, Acevedo recognized and confronted bias in many forms. She fought against the notions that girls should only become wives and mothers, and she strived to be a success in all aspects in her life: a focused student, a successful Girl Scout, a talented musician, and, above all, a young woman who never believed that her future was already written by someone else. Particularly touching is Acevedo's recollection of her mother's determination and dedication to her family: she acted as an advocate for her daughter's success even as she and Sylvia faced domestic abuse. The text is accessible, and the story of Acevedo's life touches upon a number of salient points for readers including racism, gender roles, and educational inequality. The importance of the Girl Scouts and of always being prepared resonates throughout. The author's experiences working as a rocket scientist are fascinating, though these recollections come at the very end of the book.