Ariba: an old tale about new shoes by Masha Manapov

Marcus is so excited to have new shoes they even have flashing lights. 

Image source: Enchanted Lion

When he tells his Grandpa about the shoes, Grandpa recounts a story from long ago about another pair of shoes.

I enjoyed the way this book contains a story within a story and the final scene is sure to make you smile.

Publisher blurb Enchanted Lion: Marcus’ joy over a new pair of shoes reminds his grandfather of an old story about a boy named Ariba and his adventure-loving shoes. Every time Ariba put his shoes on, something crazy would happen. Once they even took him climbing to the peak of the yellow mountain! But one day, Ariba decides he’s going to move from his small village to the city on the other side of the mountains. When he arrives, he buys all new things—including a new pair of shoes. His new life has no room for the old pair. And yet, wouldn’t you know it? No matter what he does, the shoes keep finding their way back to him…

This story is great fun to share with young listeners, who will giggle each time the shoes make their way back to Ariba and will be delighted to recognize Ariba’s shoes at the end. Older readers will appreciate the gentle thread about staying connected to one’s roots. Kirkus Star review

Masha Manapov was born in Azerbaijan and grew up in Tel Aviv. She now lives in England. Ariba is her first book as author and illustrator. Here is an excellent and detailed interview with Masha. She mentions two of her favourite childhood books were Ronia the Robber’s Daughter and The Brothers Lionheart both by Astrid Lindgren. You can see art from Ariba here. I have one extra question for Masha - I would like to read the original African folktale or a version of this folktale which inspired her book.

If you read this book to a group of older students you could also share this photography project where Shannon Jensen took photos of shoes worn by refugees.  The images are amazing, sad, important, and are sure to lead to a deep discussion. Take a look at this post by my friend from Kinderbookswitheverything.

Here is the perfect companion read to use with Ariba:

Those Shoes

You might also look at Grandma's treasured shoes.