Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan

Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan

Authors: Deloris Jordan, Roslyn M. Jordan
Illustrator: Kadir Nelson
Awards: N/A
Genre: Nonfiction (biography)
Grade Level: PK-2

When he was a child, Michael loved to play basketball with his brothers. He was feeling discouraged because he did not think he was tall enough to be a good basketball player. When he asked his mother how he could get taller, she told him to put salt in his shoes. Although puzzled, Michael listened to his mother and remained patient and said his prayers every night. When Michael was asleep, his mother would put salt in his shoes and say a prayer for him. Michael practiced playing basketball every day. His hard work and determination, along with the help of the salt and prayers, resulted in Michael becoming one of the best basketball players ever.

The illustrations are colorful and intricate. They really bring readers to the neighborhood basketball court where Michael Jordan learned to play.

Although students interested in sports will find this story interesting, the best use for this book is to introduce moral values to readers. Classes can discuss how hard work, patience, and perseverance can pay off in the end.