New Shoes

Two-time Caldecott Medalist and New York Times–bestselling picture book creator Chris Raschka pays tribute to one of the most quintessential events of childhood—getting new shoes—in this boldly illustrated and inspiring book for the youngest reader.

When a young child discovers a hole in a sneaker, mother and child embark on a big childhood adventure—a trip to the store to pick out new shoes.

From having feet measured and making a selection to finally showing off the new shoes to a friend, this momentous child moment is treated with respect, excitement, and page-turning energy in a wonderfully age-appropriate picture book.

Caldecott Medalist and New York Times–bestselling picture book creator Chris Raschka joyfully captures the event from the child’s point of view. New Shoes is a preschool classic in the making.

When your shoes are
worn out 
too tight
faded and flat

—guess what?

It’s time to get NEW SHOES!

Two-time Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka pays homage to a quintessential moment of childhood—a visit to the shoe store—in this book about shoes, growing up, making choices, and sharing with friends.

“Raschka’s loose line and bright watercolor-and-gouache edge-to-edge illustrations are lively and sweet, perfectly suited to his subject. A delightfully important adventure for a very small person.” - Kirkus Reviews

“Raschka’s clever visual perspective takes this outing from solid to superb...a delightful, somewhat Mr. Rogers-esque introduction and celebration of a small but significant life activity.”  - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“The watercolor and gouache illustrations in Raschka’s signature loose style give a child’s-eye view of each phase of shoe-shopping. ...Raschka focuses on small moments of ordinary life that become significant: in this case, a young child who still needs help from adults practices self-reliance and makes independent choices.” - Horn Book Magazine

“Raschka takes a common experience and personalizes it by employing the visual perspective of a young child...the page design, along with the loose, amiable watercolor-and-gouache illustrations, elevates the book. Vibrant and full of energy, the pictures fully engage the reader as a participant in the story.” - Booklist

“[A] simple joyous celebration...a perfect choice for preschoolers as well as new readers. ...A lovely, original book about a familiar rite of growing up, perfect for one-on-one and small group sharing.” - School Library Journal (starred review)