• Age: 5 to 8
• Grade: k to 3

"In this witty, wise picture book, Boelts presents a kid’s-eye view of a consumer fad that rages through school at gale force." — Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

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.

Maribeth Boelts' profile page

Noah Z. Jones' profile page

Maribeth Boelts is a former preschool teacher who has written numerous books for children. She lives in Iowa with her husband and three children.

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.

Boelts blends themes of teasing, embarrassment and disappointment with kindness and generosity in a realistic interracial school scenario.
—Kirkus Reviews

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