Reader Score
89%
89% of readers
recommend this book
All Jeremy wants is a pair of those shoes, the ones everyone at school seems to be wearing. Though Jeremy's grandma says they don't have room for "want," just "need," when his old shoes fall apart at school, he is more determined than ever to have those shoes, even a thrift-shop pair that are much too small. But sore feet aren't much fun, and Jeremy soon sees that the things he has -- warm boots, a loving grandma, and the chance to help a friend -- are worth more than the things he wants.
Noah Z. Jones is the illustrator of NOT NORMAN: A GOLDFISH STORY, THE MONSTER IN THE BACKPACK, and WELCOME TO THE BED AND BISCUIT. He lives in Maine.
The Great Books Foundation is a nonprofit educational organization empowering readers of all ages to become more reflective thinkers. #sharedinquiry
Happy Birthday Maribeth Boelts! Check out how engaged, excited, and happy first-graders at Blaine Elementary School (@OurSchoolRocks) were to discuss her story "Those Shoes" not long ago! #JuniorGreatBooks #collaboration https://t.co/vlN3G5IUBH
David Leach, Ed.D., is a proud public school parent. Superintendent of Warwick Valley Central School District, New York.
Mrs. Camporas's first-graders read Maribeth Boelts' "Those Shoes" during art enrichment. First graders designed their own "dream shoes." Students worked together create one design. They made canvas sneakers from their paper designs, prioritizing teamwork, listening, and empathy. https://t.co/5S49JDvPbu
Maribeth Boelts has a good eye for how the shoes bestow value at school and how Jeremy feels wearing an uncool pair. Much to discuss, especially in the ending.
--Chicago Tribune
Whether children are on the shoe-owning or the shoe-envying side of the economic line, they can sympathize with Jeremy and rejoice in the way he eventually resolves his problem with his too-small shoes.
--The Horn Book
Jones' autumn-toned illustrations wonderfully complement Boelts' sweet-natured main characters and non-didactic life lesson.
--Booklist
A wonderful story of sharing, this important book conveys what is most important in life.
--Kendal Rautzhan's "Books to Borrow, Books to Buy" column
A touching story about how a life short on money can be big on love, good values, and friendship.
--Young Children
Maribeth Boelts introduces young readers to [a] complex issue with kindness and finesse.
--Grand Rapids Press
In this witty, wise picture book Boelts presents a kids-eye view of a consumer fad that rages through school at gale force.
--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)
A poignant, thought-provoking book.
--School Library Journal
A contemporary urban story that shows the spirit of sharing with economy of language and superior craftsmanship.
--Contra Costa Times
Peer pressure, overwhelming desire, and the acceptance of what is really needed are played out in this story that is duplicated in schools around the country.
--Library Media Connection