Kicks

“A brilliantly written and illustrated ode to sneakers and sneakerheads, young and old. A gift to us all.” —Angie Thomas, #1 New York Times bestselling author

A fun, lyrical debut picture book, Kicks is an essential read for sneaker fans of all ages, from award-winning poet Van G. Garrett and New York Times bestselling illustrator Reggie Brown.

This is a love letter to sneakers. But not just any sneakers. Only the flyest, floatiest, you-est kicks you can get—the ones that let you soar!

This colorful, rhythmic adventure has something to offer anyone who prizes a great pair of shoes and any reader who loves to play with words.

“Making his children’s book debut, poet Garrett employs short lines and kid-friendly metaphors... Brown (Who Are Your People?) portrays a vibrant cityscape populated by a stylishly sneaker-clad community of color with varying skin tones and body types.” - Publishers Weekly

“An upbeat, affirming story that works especially well for #RepresentationMatters and Black Boy Joy collections. Complementary books include Floyd Cooper’s Jump! From the Life of Michael Jordan (2004) and Derrick Barnes’ Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut (2017).”

“An excellent read-aloud... This fun, lyrical free verse poem pays homage to the joy a pair of new shoes can bring, and its colorful illustrations work well to enhance the joy of the experience. A recommended purchase... especially where poetry is popular.” - School Library Journal

“A charming balance of enthusiasm and pride. Pair this with Boelts’ Those Shoes for a storytime appreciative of some jazzy footwear.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"A brilliantly written and illustrated ode to sneakers and sneakerheads, young and old. A gift to us all." - Angie Thomas, #1 New York Times bestselling author

 "Garrett and Brown have crafted a fresh and delightful anthem not just to shoes but also the magical way they make us feel." - Oge Mora, Caldecott Honor-winning author of Thank You, Omu! and Saturday

 "Fresh and fly with art that shines, Kicks is an ode to the perfect shoe for you." - Kwame Mbalia, New York Times bestselling author