Step into my Shoes

Those Shoes

Written by: Maribeth Boelts     Illustrated by: Noah Jones

Published by: Penguin Random House, 2009

Realistic Fiction

Have you ever wanted something so bad it hurt? Well, that is what Jeremy is feeling as he sees all of his friends come to school with awesome new shoes! There is only one problem, Jeremy's grandmother cannot afford the shoes Jeremey wants. When they finally find the shoes after visiting three different thrift shops, Jeremy cannot wait to have them! Even if they are a little snug on his feet. What will Jeremy do now that he has the shoes he has always wanted?

The illustrations in this story are composed of a combination of ink and watercolors. The pictures are very simple and do not include many details or bright colors. This helps the mood of the story portray how Jeremy is feeling and how he wishes he could just fit in with all of the other kids. Life for Jeremy has never been anything extravagant and these illustrations really help the reader step into Jeremey's shoes.

I would use this book in a first grade classroom setting and have the students ask and answer questions about key details from the setting, characters, and events of the story. The students could also practice retelling the story through readers theatre and develop their understanding of diversity and kindness. Not everyone will always have extra money to spend on what they want, but it will always feel good to give when you have more than you need!