Those Shoes
By Maribeth Boelts
The Story
A young boy wants trendy shoes like his friends, but his family can't afford them. He finds a pair at a thrift store, learns empathy, and helps a friend who really needs them.
Why It's Special
If your child loves exploring the meaning of "need" versus "want," Those Shoes is a heartwarming journey.
- Big idea: Jeremy learns the value of what he has over what he wishes for, even as he longs for the popular shoes everyone else has.
- Vibes: A charming blend of humor and warmth with a touch of real-world challenges.
Notice how Jeremy's perspective shifts when he helps a friend, providing a perfect pause for reflection during read-aloud time.
Perfect For Kids Who...
- enjoy stories with relatable life lessons
- are discovering the importance of friendship and empathy
- like realistic stories with heartwarming messages
- appreciate vivid illustrations that bring emotions to life
Ask Your Little Reader
Spark a thoughtful conversation with these questions.
- Story & problem-solving: Why did Jeremy decide to buy the thrift shop shoes even though they were too small?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Jeremy felt when his shoes fell apart at school?
- Real-life connection: Can you think of a time you wanted something really badly?
- Imagination: What other ways could Jeremy have shown kindness to his friend? Invite them to draw their favorite moment from the book and share why it stood out.