In this endearing, beautifully illustrated picture book by Justin Rhodes, we are introduced to a young boy known as Mr. Brown, on a journey to find his lost shoes across their family farm. As the second child who constantly loses them, it becomes problemsone when it’s time to do the family chores. As frustrating as it might be, his father sees this as a teaching moment and for himself extending grace and patience despite him doing this often.

The book has several takeaways that make this an enjoyable read. Mr Brown learns some valuable life lessons that will be helpful as he grows. Even though he couldn’t find his shoes, his determination to work in spite of it is such a wonderful quality to have. When his father stepped back and let him search for his own shoes, it gave him a purpose that taught him how to be responsible and how what he does affects other people. He learned how to solve his own problem and gain confidence to find a solution. With these great lessons, the moment that stands out for me was the invaluable bond and love between not only their family but in this particular situation, his father and himself. The illustrations of them working together with no text spoke volume and just wrapped up the book so nicely.

Overall, it was a wonderful read that includes a heartfelt open note from the perspective of a father, the author that others parents can relate to. Even though this was about Mr. Brown, his commentary presents another perspective from the parents that I feel will give you something to relate to in regards to finding a balance as Mr. Brown’s father did for his situation. This was his first picture book and I look forward to seeing more in the future.

The reading age for this book is 3-6. The book has 32 pages.

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