Centipede's 100 Shoes

Reach for this book when your child is insisting on a new toy because everyone else has one, or when they are feeling completely overwhelmed by a big task like cleaning up a playroom. It is a humorous cautionary tale about the difference between what we want and what we actually need. Centipede thinks life will be much better with one hundred shiny shoes, but he quickly discovers that having more stuff often means having more work and more stress. Through Tony Ross's signature wit, the story explores the weight of responsibility and the value of simplifying. It is perfect for preschoolers and early elementary students who are beginning to navigate consumerism or struggling with the logistics of getting dressed. The book uses a lighthearted approach to teach patience and the importance of being yourself, even if that means having bare feet.