Indian Shoes

These short stories are written for younger readers who like rhythms and repetition in what they read. The book is divided into episodes about the lives of Ray and his Grampa Halfmoon. It shows their love for each other, and how they try to do things to help each other. Ray learns the lesson of sticking with things that he starts. And both he and Grampa have to figure out how to help the animals they're taking care of during the Christmas holidays when the electricity goes out. Eventually, Ray learns what the biggest thing in life is --- even bigger than the biggest bass in the lake.

--- Reviewed by Tamara Penny

Indian Shoes Captures the Spirit of Native Americans
Indian Shoes is an astonishing achievement that captures, in lyrical and sometimes magical language, the spirit and love that bonds Ray and his Grampa Halfmoon. Divided eloquently into episodes that explores their relationship and how they must bond their hearts and souls in order to retain their trust and faith and love in each other, Indian Shoes, in simple, yet powerful language, is a must read for all ages. From easing Grampa's homesickness, to figuring out how how to save the animals during a Christmas power outtage, these characters are complex-driven, fighting to retain the courage and love they have for each other while still maintaining their spiritual Native American connections. Heartfelt, almost poetic in its language, and full of moments of humor and pathos, Indian Shoes is a perfect read!

Characters You'll Remember
My daughter (age 6) and I loved this book, which is about the relationship between a young boy and his grandfather. What was nice about it was the unexpectedness of it. It was not the usual school or historical stories written for this age group. Rather, they are just quirky unusual tales. I also think it is great that Ms. Leitich Smith presents Native Americans not only as traditional, ritualistic people who sit around telling allegorical stories, but as a living, breathing group. As such, this book is the perfect antidote to the usual "Squanto, Friend of the Pilgrims" fare. My daughter lost her grandfather a few years ago, but Indian Shoes captures the essence of that relationship and is wonderful! We won't soon forget Ray and Grandpa Halfmoon.

Great gift for Grandparents' day
Indian Shoes does more than just reflect contemporary Native families, it captures the relationship between grandparents and their children's children regardless of their heritage. If you're looking for a book that grandparents and children can share together you've already found it.

Subtle, funny, catch in your throat poignant, this book is one to own.