In "Thank You M'am," what did one of the characters want?

I think you are wondering what Roger wanted to buy when he tried to steal Mrs. Jones’ purse at the beginning of the story. Like many young people, Roger wanted the newest, coolest thing—a pair of blue suede shoes.  The artist, Carl Perkins, recorded a song called, “Blue Suede Shoes” in 1956, and later, the song became popular when Elvis Presley recorded it.  I think owning a pair of blue suede shoes would be similar to wearing the newest Air Jordans today.

In an act of kindness after teaching Roger about the consequences of stealing, Mrs. Jones gives Roger $10.00 for the shoes. That was a hefty sum back then, and the expense of the shoes might explain why Roger needed to steal to get what he wanted.  Hopefully, however, Roger learned his lesson, bought the shoes, and when out dancing that night.