Those Shoes
By: Matibeth Boelets Illustrated By: Noah Z. Jones
By: Matibeth Boelets Illustrated By: Noah Z. Jones
This story is about a little boy, Jeremy, who desperately wants the same black high tops as everyone else (see – relatable), but his Grandma can't afford them. He goes through a series of events trying to obtain the shoes only to realize something more important than having the shoes.
Maribeth Boelts is an American author of children's books. She has written several books for young readers, many of which are aimed at addressing important themes and lessons for children. Her works often explore topics such as empathy, understanding, and personal growth.
Maribeth Boelts's books are appreciated for their ability to engage young readers while conveying important life lessons and values. Her works are often used in educational settings and are popular choices for promoting discussions about character development, kindness, and social-emotional learning in young readers.
Empathy and Understanding: The book explores themes of empathy and understanding the feelings of others. It teaches young readers to consider the needs and feelings of those who are less fortunate, promoting compassion and empathy.
Materialism and Values: "Those Shoes" addresses the idea of materialism and the desire for popular or trendy items. It helps children understand that possessions don't define a person's worth and that values like kindness and empathy are more important.
Social and Economic Disparities: The story highlights economic disparities and the differences in the resources and opportunities available to people. It encourages young readers to think about social issues and inequalities, fostering a sense of social responsibility
Resilience and Friendship: The book demonstrates the importance of resilience and the value of friendship in challenging times. It encourages young readers to support and be there for their friends, especially when they face difficulties.
Discussion of Difficult Topics: "Those Shoes" provides a platform for discussing difficult and complex topics with children, such as financial struggles and social pressures. It helps parents, teachers, and caregivers engage in meaningful conversations with young readers.
Personal Growth: The book shows how the main character, Jeremy, grows and learns important life lessons. It teaches young readers that personal growth and character development are ongoing processes.
Relatability: Many young readers can relate to the experiences and emotions of the characters in the book, making it more engaging and meaningful for them.