Sonia Rodriguez is a principal dancer with the National Ballet of Canada. A native of Toronto, she joined the National Ballet in 1990. Rodriguez can be seen onstage in the National Ballet’s winter season, opening at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts with La Sylphide, March 2–6; followed by a mixed program of Rubies & The Four Temperaments and Cacti, March 9–13; and Romeo and Juliet, March 16–20. We asked Rodriguez, an avid reader, to name a few of her favourite books.

Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes
This book taught me to live the life you dream of. It is a celebration of freedom, full of humour and an enlightening portrait of Spanish society in the golden age.

The Hive by Camilo José Cela
Hidden under an appearance of simplicity where nothing seems to happen, Cela presents an incredible study in human behaviour. It forced me to look at my own feelings, thought processes and passions in a new light.

Veinte poemas de amor by Pablo Neruda
In this collection of poems, Neruda opened my eyes and heart to the complex feelings surrounding love. Many people may feel intimidated by poetry, but Neruda makes it accessible, leaving you wanting more.

Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond
Whether his thesis is correct or not, Diamond’s book made me look at our developed world in a new light. It challenges the reader to want to know more about the course of humanity, and if nothing else, it will leave you a better, more informed member of society.