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The Wrong Shoes

The Wrong Shoes

Author:

Tom Percival

Illustrator:

N/A

Published by:

Simon & Schuster Children's UK

First Published:

9 May 2024

Ideal for readers aged

13+y

My Review

In this collaboration with the National Literacy Trust, Tom Percival has written a book that should be in every school library in the country. For Will, things just keep going wrong. Bullied for having cheap shoes, misunderstood by his teachers, and struggling to come to terms with the bleak and hungry life he leads after his dad lost his job, life seems to be pushing him down a path of self-destruction. The love of his family, persistence of his friends, and a freak encounter with nature keep filling him with just enough hope to keep doing the next right thing. Life for Will is hard, but he learns that he is still powerful, in a position to make choices about his future and the path he wants to take. It’s a story that will increase empathy in children whose lives are easier than Will’s, and empower those who relate to him.

Heads Up!

Tom is bullied for being different; a distressing but realistic portrayal of life for many kids in secondary schools around the country.

Publisher Review

There's a bunch of kids in there and suddenly they're all looking at me like someone who can actually do something, not just some weirdo with the wrong shoes and a rubbish coat . . . Will has the wrong shoes – he's always known it but doesn't know how to change it. Navigating the difficulties of home and school when you feel you stick out is tough, but finding confidence with the help and empathy of friends can be all you need to see the way.
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