While it is common for inanimate objects to have secret lives in children’s books, the idea that shoes have problems, friendships, and fears feels fresh and intriguing. The wellies must keep their “realness” secret from humans, in this case by sprinkling the people in their house with magic dust each night, but on the day Teddy goes missing, they forget to take this vital step, allowing River to help solve their mystery. Surprisingly, River is rather nonplussed by the concept of living, breathing footwear—she simply states that her mom is used to her having imaginary friends. In this way, the story doesn’t waste time with familiar drama and invites readers to similarly suspend their disbelief.
Jovanovic’s colorful illustrations show the expressive wellies on each step of their investigation, from their initial panic to the story’s lighthearted resolution. Each pair of boots comes equipped with a pair of arms as well as eyes, eyebrows, and mouths capable of clearly showing a wide range of emotions that will help young children follow along. The typesetting isn’t especially inviting, and the storytelling’s at times wordy, but the conclusion will invite kids to think about how they and their friends can help each other —or at least consider their own footwear with new curiosity.
Takeaway: Rubber rain boots come to life to solve the mystery of their missing friend in this memorable picture book.
Great for fans of: Sarah LuAnn Perkins’s On a Rainy Day, Jean Taft’s Worm Weather.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: B
Illustrations: A
Editing: B+
Marketing copy: A
