Quebec author Jane Barclay’s charming new picture book is a kindly story about frustration, determination, and a loving bond between mother and son.

JoJo is “a very small boy” scorned by local bullies as a shrimp. When they chase him, he escapes by being faster, but speed doesn’t allay his fear that he might one day be caught.

When a local shoe store promotes a footrace, with a splendid pair of red Rocket Racer running shoes as the main prize, JoJo thinks winning might just help his confidence (and earn him some nice new kicks). JoJo’s mother, a hard-working mail carrier, doesn’t think he needs the fancy shoes but supports his interest in the race, even though he’s much smaller than his competitors.

Illustrator Esperança Melo, originally from the Azores and now living in Ontario, uses a rich, glowing palate of vivid reds, blues, and ochres to reinforce the text’s feeling of familial warmth and JoJo’s brave spirit. Striking perspectives in the pictures set off details such as images on the children’s T-shirts that reflect their attitudes or remarks.

The story ends with a sweet surprise, and JoJo feeling 10 feet tall.