The Wrong Shoes – Tom Percival

Will has the wrong shoes – not just literally (as his feet are getting wet) but figuratively and he doesn’t know how to change it. Trying to support his unemployed dad, not letting his mum know what’s going on and all this whilst navigating school, peer pressure and friendship issues is taking its toll on Will…

Tom’s picture books are always my to-go stories in school as they are beautifully illustrated with sensitive themes affecting so many children today and each story has always generated such rich discussion in the classroom. Tom’s novel, The Wrong Shoes, includes his stunning illustrations and is the ultimate book for developing empathy in readers. Working with the National Literacy Trust, research has shown 1 in 3 children in the UK were living in poverty during 2021/22 (4.2 million children) and literacy levels in children from disadvantaged backgrounds are 20% lower than the national average. This book must get into the hands of every child – it shows how the odds are stacked against these children living in poverty but Tom sensitively and powerfully shows how these circumstances don’t have to define them. It is a story packed with wonder and hope (even in those smallest moments), despite the heartbreaking and, often for Will, frustrating events occurring during the story, but it has a hopeful, honest ending which doesn’t have to Disney-fy everything for the reader.

With Will, Tom has created a memorable character who stays with you long after reading. The Wrong Shoes is destined to become a classic – I felt like Will was really talking to me throughout and he could easily have been a friend of mine as I was growing up. Equally, I can think of children I’ve taught over the years or at my school who would find Will’s story very empowering and help them to see that things can change. The Wrong Shoes is so empathetic in getting the reader to understand the pressures Will has already faced before going through the school gates each morning – it’s hard not to be moved. Tom is also so honest in how he portrays Will and Cameron’s friendship (a hard situation when their family’s financial situations are polar opposite) as well as showing that the reasons for child poverty are more complex than society often says. A much-needed story for the current climate in this country, The Wrong Shoes develops further empathy in readers by getting us to walk in Will’s shoes. They might not be the comfiest fit and, at times, show the rawest emotions and uncomfortable situations but The Wrong Shoes is a sensitive story showing the power of hope, support and choices. Exceptional storytelling once again from Tom Percival!

Suggested reading age: 9+

The Wrong Shoes is written and illustrated by Tom Percival. It will be published by Simon & Schuster in partnership with National Literacy Trust on 9th May 2024. For every hardback copy sold, a £1 donation per book will go to the National Literacy Trust. You can preorder your copy here.