Michelson's Shoes, Part II

When I began the first draft of my picture book about Michelson’s Shoes in Lexington,

Massachusetts, Covid had severely curtailed how small businesses and stores could operate.

Many struggled to survive. I wanted to write a story that showed how vital these local shops are to a community's wellbeing and identity. Michelson’s Shoes mattered to its customers, as wonderfully displayed in the label attached to the souvenir pencil case mentioned in Michelson’s Shoes, Part 1.

Pencil case label:

Dear Mr. Michelson,

Someone in your store, a Mr. Michelson gave me this “back to school” souvenir pencil

case in about 1957 or 1958 when my mother brought me in for my first pair of leather school

shoes.

I loved it and even tried to write with it which is why the black paint is well worn on the

tip. I reminded my Mom never to give this away or (God forbid) throw it out! So she kept it (and she had lived in Lexington since 1919)—and she was born that year—so all her school shoes after secretarial school, and all my, and my own kids’ shoes have always been from Michelson’s. Congratulations on your 100 th anniversary, with warmest wishes from my whole family.

Marsha (Craig) Knoll and family

b. at Symmes,

\lived in Lex, now in Belmont

I structured the story chronologically, beginning in 1919, when Isadore Michelson purchased a leather repair business that transformed into a family shoe store. Along the way, I featured the various Michelsons who ran the store, the families and kids who shopped there, popular shoe styles, and changes to the business. Through a hundred years of ups and downs the store remained true to its mission to serve both its customers and its community.

I was very proud when Michelson’s Shoes: the Sole of a Community took third place in the

Boston Authors Club 2021 Discovery Award. https://bostonauthorsclub.org/2021

The story has since evolved and, after feedback from agents and editors who encouraged me to develop the story’s “kid appeal,” now focuses more on shoe styles as opposed to the store and family history. I hope the story’s present form still celebrates the vibrant place a small shop can hold in its community.

A few picture books that feature small businesses and neighborhood shops…

Oscar’s American Dream by Barry Wittenstein; illustrated by Kristen & Kevin Howdeshell

Big Dreams, Small Fish by Paula Cohen

My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero

Emergency Quarters by Carlos Matias

Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop by Keenan Jones

Can you think of other titles? Let me know in the comments!

And be sure to check out my new favorite shoe story: New Shoes for Leo by Lauren Agra Deedy & illustrated by Susan Gal.