The Story of Jimmy Choo,
Shoemaker to a Princess
A TRUE TALE WITH
A CHERRY ON TOP
Abrams Books for Young Readers
(pub.8.8.2023) 40 pages
Author: Patricia Tanumihardja
Illustrator: Derek Desierto
Character: Jimmy Choo
Overview:
" On the island of Penang, Jimmy Choo is born into a family of shoemakers. At his father’s side, he learns to make all kinds of shoes—loafers, stilettos, slippers, and more.
After learning all he can at home, Jimmy immigrates to London, where he can study shoemaking by day and English by night. Nothing comes easy for newcomer Jimmy, but he works hard until he can launch his own business. At his Lucky Shoes, Jimmy specializes in shoes made just for the customer. Before long, he starts to make waves in the London fashion scene. One day, he gets a call from a very special customer—Diana, Princess of Wales, wants him to design shoes just for her. And the rest is history!"
Tantalizing taste:
"He envisioned uniquely designed shoes that fit like Cinderella's glass slippers.
Jimmy rented a tiny space in a dilapidated redbrick building where he worked hard from dawn till dusk, cutting, stitching, beading. His designs were inspired by the vibrant flowers, brilliant birds, and graceful architecture of his homeland."
And something more: Patricia Tanumihardja in the Author's Note explains that "Today, Jimmy continues to make shoes for select clients. He also travels the world speaking at universities and charity events and mentors young Asian designers. Jimmy is a global ambassador of the Alumni Awards for the British Council and an ambassador for the Diana Award, a charity that supports social programs to help young people."
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