Shoebox Sam

K-Gr 3—Jesse and Delia spend Saturdays helping out at Shoebox Sam's shoe repair shop. The owner, an affable grandfatherly African American, cuts a dapper figure in his gray suit, bow tie, and hat tilted at an angle. The children are waiting for him when he arrives at the shop holding a bag of cinnamon crullers and fresh bread. As customers arrive, they are treated to a cup of coffee and some small talk. When a disheveled man enters the store, Shoebox Sam says, "Come in, sir. Sit right down. Children, get this gentleman a cup of coffee while he waits." Delia's expression is decidedly worried when the man devours two doughnuts. He takes one more and drinks all the cream, and then eats yet another doughnut. When Delia tells Sam, he replies, "When you're hungry, you eat." By the time he leaves, he has a new pair of shoes and a complimentary pair of socks. Customers come and go throughout the day, including a woman wearing several layers of clothes. When Delia mentions, "She is wearin' at least five different dresses and four sweaters," Sam tells her, "When you're cold, you cover up." The woman is treated to hot coffee, sandwiches, and a new pair of shoes. Morrison's distinctive illustrations and use of warm colors to depict elongated figures with wonderfully expressive faces spill across the spreads. Shoebox Sam is subtle yet effective in demonstrating compassion and the importance of treating all people with dignity and respect.—Mary N. Oluonye, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH