Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts

A Review by Perla Bonilla

Synopsis:

Those Shoes, written by Maribeth Boelts and illustrated by Noah Z. Jones, portrays the possible struggles that children in low-income households face when it comes to wanting what their peers around them have, like the newest and coolest shoes that every kid wants. In this book, the main character, Jeremy, starts the story by constantly insisting to his grandmother that he wants the new shoes that everyone else has. In turn, his grandma constantly reminds him that he does not need those new shoes since winter is arriving and what he needs are new boots. Jeremy makes many efforts to get his new shoes, including visiting a variety of thrift stores, until he finally finds the shoes and purchases them even though they are too small. Because of this, he never actually gets to wear them. However, one day he noticed that one of his classmates, Anthony, also did not have the much-desired new shoes that everyone else had and instead noticed that his shoes were ripping and were being held up by tape. One day, Jeremy decided to gift his new shoes to Anthony after the realization that he actually needed them and could make good use of them. In the end, Jeremy understood that he had what he needed and used the little extra that he had to help someone who needed it.

Anti-Bias Elements:

Change as an everyday possibility Jeremy, the main character, gave his new shoes that he purchased at a thrift store despite the fact that they were too small for him to Anthony, a kid in his class who, unlike the rest, did not make fun of his lack of new shoes. Additionally, the school counselor, Mr. Alfrey, keeps a box with extra shoes that the kids can access when needed. In both these cases, this book serves as a reminder that change is possible and can be done by anyone from any economic class and from any age group in a way that is realistic and attainable.

Positive and Empowering Relationships

The positive relationship that Jeremy has with his grandma has made him a kind and empathic young boy who realized that all he truly needs is this valuable connection that they share. He uses this relationship to fuel more positive relationships as evidenced by his effort to actively connect with Anthony and become his friend as a reflection of this. These positive and empowering relationships have worked to further fuel positive actions in a reciprocal manner.

Different Lifestyles

Jeremy is surrounded by kids who have different lifestyles from him and his grandma. They proudly use public transportation and shop at the thrift stores even when the kids around them have the shoes that everyone seems to want. Although this makes Jeremy a little bit desperate about having to choose between his needs and wants at the beginning, towards the end he demonstrates pride as he was able to help his friend and make him happy. This contrast in lifestyle of choosing between needs and wants and not having to choose between these offers a valuable perspective of what both sides might look like.