
Reach for this book when your child is transitioning into a new phase of growth and needs help letting go of the old to make room for the new. Whether they are outgrowing a favorite pair of shoes or moving to a new home, this story offers a comforting perspective on change through the lens of family history. Set in early America, the story follows Sam as he receives a new pair of shoes and learns about the curious family tradition of hiding an old shoe in the walls of a house for protection and luck. It is a gentle exploration of heritage, the passage of time, and the pride that comes with growing up. Parents will appreciate how it turns a mundane moment of outgrowing clothes into a magical connection with the past, making it perfect for children aged 4 to 8 who are developing an interest in their own family roots.
The book is entirely secular and safe. It deals with the concept of "leaving things behind" in a metaphorical and historical way. There are no heavy themes of loss, only the natural progression of time.
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Sign in to write a reviewAn inquisitive 6-year-old who loves "I Spy" books or hunting for hidden treasures, or a child who is feeling sentimental about outgrowing their clothes or moving to a new house.
This book can be read cold. Parents might want to research if their own family has any "hidden" traditions or look up the real history of "concealed shoes" in old architecture to share after reading. A parent might reach for this after hearing their child say, "I don't want to give these away, they're my favorite!" or when a child asks, "Who lived in our house before us?"
Younger children (4-5) will focus on the fun of the "hidden secret" in the wall. Older children (7-8) will better grasp the historical context and the idea of leaving a legacy or a footprint for future generations.
While many books focus on the history of objects, Thermes focuses on the history of the home as a living vessel for family memories. It uniquely blends historical fiction with a touch of folkloric mystery.
Sam Bennett lives in a 19th-century setting and has finally outgrown his old, worn-out shoes. After receiving a new pair from a traveling cobbler, his grandfather shares a folk tradition: hiding one of the old shoes within the structure of their home to bring good luck and protection to the household. Sam chooses a spot, leaves his mark on the house, and connects his personal growth to the history of his family home.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.