Sneakerhead

By: Amanda Eyre Ward

Narrated by: Amanda Eyre Ward, Timothy Harrison Meckel

Length: 1 hr and 55 mins

Publisher's summary

When Amanda Eyre Ward's 13-year-old son, Harry, dove headfirst into the world of sneaker culture, she found herself baffled by his obsession with flashy, expensive shoes that seemed like mere status symbols. Determined to bridge the gap with her teenage son, Ward reluctantly decided to embrace the mantra of "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em".

As she shed her preconceptions and immersed herself in the quest to snag the latest drops, Ward discovered a community far richer than she had imagined. Sneaker culture, she realized, wasn't just about shoes—it was a gateway to entrepreneurship, a vibrant community, and a powerful form of creative expression that was transforming Harry's identity before her eyes.

In her irreverent, insightful voice, Ward recounts this transformative journey in Sneakerhead. Through vivid prose and engaging conversations with Harry and fellow enthusiasts they encounter, Ward's eyes are opened to the depth and significance of her son's passion. Throughout, Ward paints a vivid portrait of an important piece of American culture—a phenomenon that transcends mere footwear to embody aspirations, creativity, and belonging.

In embracing her son's world, Ward not only discovers a newfound appreciation for sneakers but also for the unique individual her son is becoming. Sneakerhead, ultimately, is a testament to the magic that unfolds when parents invest in understanding and encouraging their children's passions.

©2023 Amanda Eyre Ward (P)2024 Audible Originals, LLC.

Quick read

This book is interesting. Good content on for sneaker heads. Something a teen may want to read

Learned something new

I initially listened because I like shoes and my husband is a little bit of a sneakerhead too who has tried to land drops here and there. It was interesting to hear about the deeper world of sneakers. But as a mom, I liked the the sweet understory of her relationship with her son.

A great analogous for how life with your growing child will go!

When I first stumbled upon this book I didn’t think I’d like it. Turns out I loved it. I have a growing child who wants me around BUT I’ve already stated to notice some distance and her being her true self blossoming. It’s bitter sweet for sure. And now I understand what my own mother went through with me and my siblings. Thank you for this!! 😋

Relatable!

As a mom of a precious teen boy who I felt like she was describing to a tee! We too dove headfirst into the sneaker culture. Your experience mirrors ours - minus the coat and debt! Bravo Momma!

Fabulous!

Amanda and I share the exact Mothering style. I too reached into my son's life by learning how to cook smoke bombs and blow things up or forbidding it, and having him do it behind my back. Utterly goofy, charming and wonderfully real book - just loved it!

An amazing book

I really enjoyed listening to this book and hearing both the author’s perspective and her sons. This would be a great book for any mother with a middle child.

A fun heart felt listen

Being the mother of a 14yr old male, I can relate. This was a very
nice- quick read. Enjoyed

Nostalgia

It was an awesome story! creative and witty, and like the fact that the sun was also included in the narration. it reminded me of when my boys were that age. Adventurous, and a little messy, lol, in the way they kept the rooms. Would recommend it to my mom and dad friends. To the author, good luck in all your future endeavors. Thank you

Growth and Discovery

There’s something interesting and magical that happens somewhere in the third part of this audiobook. Something transcends the relatively boring two thirds as both son and mother learn things about themselves and the world around them. There’s growth and discovery. Just for that it went from meh to nice for me.

Ima be honest.

As an African American sneaker collector who turned 40 this year. Being a collector since 2005, i was on the fence about this one. Some things i didn’t like. Some things were inaccurate information. But overall the POV of a white suburban mom whose sons are resellers, not collectors, was interesting to experience. It was new to me. It’s something I otherwise would have never witnessed. And for that, it gets a high rating from me.