Those Shoes – Buddy’s Book Review

Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts is a heartwarming story about a boy named Jeremy who desperately wants a pair of the trendy black high-top sneakers that all his classmates have. However, his grandmother can only afford necessities, not expensive shoes. When Jeremy finds a pair at a thrift store, they are too small, but he buys them anyway. Later, he notices that his friend Antonio, who has even more worn-out shoes, needs them more. In an act of kindness and selflessness, Jeremy secretly gives Antonio the shoes, realizing that generosity and friendship matter more than having the “cool” thing. The story beautifully highlights the power of empathy, kindness, and the joy of giving.