Dickens & Rumi
Cover of A Mile in His Shoes

film

A Mile in His Shoes

2011

Based on the book “The Legend of Mickey Tussler”, this film follows the story of eighteen-year-old Mickey Tussler, who lives on a farm with his father and mother and who has Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism. But he can throw apples at an amazing speed. When a chance meeting occurs with the baseball manager of the semi-pro team the River Rats, from Clayton, Ohio, Mickey gets a chance to pitch for the team and to prove to his father he can do more than live hidden away on the family farm, taking care of his pig Oscar.

Ages 10+Source checked

Why this age? The story appears suitable for older children, but themes of disability, family rejection, social prejudice, and emotional hardship may need discussion. Baseball competition and conflict are likely mild rather than graphic. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age10+

Strongest cautions

  • Religious themes2/5
  • Alcohol or drugs1/5
  • Frightening scenes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Positive messages4/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

The film appears to use at most mild language or name-calling, with no indication of strong profanity or slurs.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Christian themes and community values are part of the film’s framing, though faith is not necessarily the sole focus.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Any romantic interest appears minor and non-explicit rather than a central storyline.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

Social pressure, family expectations, and emotional tension may be mildly unsettling, without horror or sustained danger.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental adult alcohol use is possible, but substance use does not appear central or glamorized.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Competition and interpersonal conflict may feel tense, but the available evidence supports little or no physical violence.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows courage by putting himself in new, uncomfortable social environments.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

The story highlights Mickey’s distinctive baseball ability and finding constructive ways to use his strengths.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on the experiences of a character on the autism spectrum.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides insight into living with autism and the challenges of overcoming social barriers.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Acts of kindness and mentoring are central to the plot.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of inclusion, self-discovery, and the importance of believing in others.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Positive characters demonstrate integrity, patience, and growth.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. What beliefs or religious ideas appear in the story? How do they influence the characters?
  3. Which choice in A Mile in His Shoes would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in A Mile in His Shoes, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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