Lace Them Up

Jean Free, a library consultant, is a retired public-school teacher and
librarian in Whitby, Ontario.

Lisa can dress herself, but when she chooses lace-up shoes, her mother
says she must learn to tie them herself. With the help of her big
sister, Erika, and some practice, she masters the skill. Included in the
book are step-by-step instructions as well as a stiff cardboard, punched
for lacing, and two green-and-yellow laces.

This book has a multicultural aspect, with a grandmother who grew up in
Costa Rica and a grandfather from Holland. The accompanying card and
laces, with instructions, would be useful for practice with children
aged 4 to 6. The story reads well without appearing too contrived.

The detailed and humorous illustrations are fun for children to examine
as they hear of Lisa’s search for mastery of this skill. Lace Them Up
is part of Somerville House’s Step-by-Step series, which also includes
Brush Them Bright (about cleaning teeth), a book that comes with
toothbrush and stickers.