In Jesse’s Shoe

by: Beverly Lewis

Published by: Bethany House Publishers (October release)

Reviewed by Laura V. Hilton

Allie wondered why God gave her Jesse for a brother. Jesse never called Allie by her real name, he called her “Sister” but it sounded more like “Sisser.” Jesse had to ride a different small bus to a special school, because Jesse is different. Allie wished Jesse would be sent far away to a boarding school where hopefully she’d never see him again.

After a particularly frustrating day, Allie burst into the house screaming that she wants a normal brother. Her dad told her that she needs to spend some time in Jesse’s shoes to understand him. Jesse took this literally, and the next day, he insisted Allie wear his shoes. Allie did, and as she spent time with her brother, she began to see the world through his eyes. And saw that his world wasn’t weird. Just different.

When the mean kids came along, Allie was able to defend her brother. And maybe they began to see Jesse in a different way too.

In Jesse’s Shoes is the newest children’s book by Beverly Lewis. My five-year-old was excited to see it, and couldn’t wait for me to read the story to her. My two-year-old was fascinated by the beautifully colored pictures (the story is a little advanced for a two-year-old), and I noticed as I read that even my 11- and 15-year olds stopped what they were doing and listened. Maybe they learned something.

I recommend In Jesse’s Shoes as it really brings home how a special person is different and why children shouldn’t be so quick to judge and make fun of them. I highly recommend In Jesse’s Shoes for all parents and grandparents as well as public libraries and church libraries.

Armchair Interviews says: You can’t go wrong with this inspirational book for children of all ages and adults.