A Heartfelt Review of Those Shoes: Finding More Than What We Want
Ah, bedtime reading! It has become one of my favorite rituals with my kids—the stories, the cuddles, and even the occasional negotiation over just one more page. Recently, we picked up a gem called Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts. Sitting on the couch, amidst cuddly blankets and a tower of stuffed animals, I felt that familiar tug at my heartstrings, a delightful blend of chaos and warmth.
Those Shoes follows the story of Jeremy, a boy who covets a pair of shoes that seem to be the centerpiece of every conversation at school. It’s a story that resonates deeply in our consumer-driven world, where my kids frequently ask for the latest trends. Jeremy’s struggle between need and want hits home—not just for him, but for us as a family navigating those very conversations. I loved how Jeremy’s grandma grounds him with the wisdom that “we don’t have room for ‘want,’ just ‘need’.”
As we dove into the pages, my kids were absolutely riveted, capturing the subtleties of Jeremy’s journey. The illustrations brought the story to life, with vibrant colors that mirrored the emotion of each scene—Jeremy’s longing, his moments of happiness with friends, and the warmth of his grandma’s love. My younger one, Ella, gasped as she saw Jeremy trying on shoes that were too small, whispering, "Mommy, that looks painful!" Liam, my older son, nodded sagely, noting how sometimes we don’t realize what we already have. They both recognized the familiar struggle of wanting what others have but being reminded of the riches in our everyday lives.
One particular line resonated with us all: “The things I have—warm boots, a loving grandma, and the chance to help a friend—are worth more than the things I want.” It sparked an unexpected discussion about gratitude and friendship. We found ourselves talking about how important it is to appreciate what we already own, from Ella’s beloved teddy bear to Liam’s collection of well-read comics.
The humor peppered throughout the book kept us giggling, especially when discussing Jeremy’s unusual thrift-shop finds. The read-aloud appeal was undeniable—its rhythm and wise wit made it enjoyable to share as a family. Not to mention, it sparked a delightful post-story discussion about what makes sneakers “cool” and how sometimes the “coolest” things also come from the heart.
I wholeheartedly recommend Those Shoes for kids aged 4 to 8, especially those who, like mine, are often captivated by trends but need gentle reminders of what truly matters. This is not just a one-time read; it comfortably snuggled its way into our family favorites. And personally, it had me reflecting on my own childhood struggles, a little reminder to myself about appreciating the simple joys in life.
So if you’re looking for a sweet story that weaves in important life lessons with humor and heart, Those Shoes is definitely worth a spot on your bookshelf. Trust me, you’ll find more than just a charming tale; you’ll discover moments of connection that make family reading time so beautiful. Happy reading!
