Salt in His Shoes

Author: Deloris Jordan            Title: Salt in His Shoes

Book Genre:   Biography           

Publishing Info: Simon & Schuster, NY 2000 (29pgs)

Summary:  This story is told from the viewpoint of Michael Jordan’s mom.  It takes place when he is a young child and gets discouraged because of his height.  He wants and desires to become taller, so that when he goes to play basketball with his brothers and their friends, he can be a better player.  He learns that it is not about his height, but rather his determination and will to become better by practicing.  

Personal rating:  ****

Rationale: This is a story of determination that children of all ages can be encouraged by.  It talks about struggle and discouragement, yet overcoming the things we cannot change.  The illustrations are fun for young children, who cannot read the story on their own.

Reading level: 3.6                                                Interest level: K-5^th

Thematic Areas: Struggle, discouragement, determination, success, family values and encouragement

Content Areas: History, physical education, health, character

Potential Problems or Difficulties: This story could give some students false hope that they can become professional basketball players.

Possible use in classroom: Have the students research more struggles that Michael Jordan had when trying to play basketball throughout life.  Have students journal on things, activities, etc. that they struggle with and ways in which they can overcome the struggles.  Have the students get into groups of 3-4, and come up with a skit, of how they can encourage someone that is discouraged about something.

A. Burgess