If the Shoe Fits

If the Shoe Fits
By Gary Soto
Illustrated by Terry Widener

 If the Shoe Fits by Gary Soto is a wonderful story about a boy named Rigo who is the youngest in a family of four boys.  He gets all the hand-me-downs from his older brothers and by the time he is done with the hand-me-downs they are so worn they go in the garbage. He wishes he could have new clothes but his mother tells him they cost money.  He lives with his family including his Uncle Celso, who sleeps on the couch.  For Rigo's ninth birthday his mom gives him a pair of brand new penny loafers and he is so happy and proud until the neighborhood bully makes fun of him.  Through a series of events and with the help of  Uncle Celso, Rigo learns that hand-me-downs are even better than brand new. 

This book could be used with any K-4 classroom. It could also help with social emotional lessons on bullying and standing up for yourself.  I love this story because many students would be able to relate to it.  There are Spanish words throughout providing a connection for some students and exposure for others.  Students may relate to having hand-me-downs and living with extended family including non traditional sleeping arrangements (Uncle Celso sleeps on the couch).  They also may connect with the want for new things.  Students who haven't experienced this will catch a glimpse into others lives and see that there are many ways to make up a family.  Uncle Celso's pride in his new job as a waiter also helps show that one doesn't have to be a doctor or a lawyer to be proud in what one does. 

Video "If the Shoe Fits"