Fancy Feet

New Kids at the Polk Street School #2

by Patricia Reilly Giff

"Little kids don't go to jail."

At least Stacy's hoping they don't!  It's not easy to be good all the time.  Stacy just had to try on the beautiful gold shoes her friend Jiwon brought to school to sell in the class store.  Now the shoes are lost, and it's Stacy's fault.

Even worse, Stacy's friends think she stole the shoes.  How can she explain what really happened?  Telling the truth is hard, but Stacy knows if the shoe fits, she has to wear it!

Genres: Childrens

80 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1988

About the author

Patricia Reilly Giff was an American author and educator whose warm, emotionally resonant books made her a beloved figure in children's literature. After spending roughly two decades as a teacher, she turned to writing and brought a deep understanding of young readers to stories that balanced humor, resilience, and emotional truth. Educated at Marymount Manhattan College, St. John's University, and Hofstra University, she drew on both her classroom experience and literary instincts to create memorable fiction for children and middle-grade readers. She became especially well known for the popular Polk Street School series, which captured the everyday dramas of school life with charm and empathy. Beyond those books, she wrote acclaimed novels such as Lily's Crossing, Nory Ryan's Song, Pictures of Hollis Woods, Eleven, and Genevieve's War, often exploring themes of belonging, family, hardship, and courage. Her work earned wide recognition, including Newbery Honors, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults designation, and a Christopher Award. Giff also influenced younger writers through her workshops and teaching spirit. Throughout her career, she remained a compassionate literary voice whose stories spoke directly to children's fears, hopes, and imaginations.

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

At least Stacy's hoping they don't!It's not easy to be good all the time.Stacy just had to try on the beautiful gold shoes her friend Jiwon brought to school to sell in the class store.Now the shoes are lost, and it's Stacy's fault.

Even worse, Stacy's friends think she stole the shoes.How can she explain what really happened.

[Mia Withrow · Rating 1 out of 5]

I did not like the book I thought it was not the best.

[Sara Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun book I read with my kids! They enjoyed it!!