Cover of a book titled "Street Smart: Lessons from a TV Icon" featuring a woman with long dark hair, smiling, against a blue background.

A film by Ernie Bustamante

STREET SMART: Lessons from a TV Icon is a feature documentary about Sonia Manzano — known to millions as “Maria” from Sesame Street. The film follows Sonia’s remarkable journey, from a young girl in the South Bronx finding refuge in television, to becoming the first Latina on American TV in a regular role, through 44 years on screen on Sesame Street, and now as the creator of Alma’s Way.

Featuring interviews with luminaries, original animation, and scripted scenes that blend humor and heart, this inspirational documentary invites viewers to learn once again from this beloved icon.

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An elderly woman with short gray hair smiles softly while sitting at a wooden table in a room with light blue walls decorated with framed artwork and a bookshelf.

Sonia Manzano in STREET SMART: Lessons from a TV Icon