The One with the Scraggly Beard
- Subject
- Social Themes - Poverty & Homelessness
- Age
- 3-5 years
- Format
- Hardcover
- Pages
- 32
- Publisher
- Orca Book Publishers
- Size
- 25.6 cm × 25.9 cm
- ISBN
- 9781459818552
A child tries to understand the life of a man he has seen sleeping under a bridge.
The boy’s mother patiently answers his questions and explains how people’s life paths can be so different. The child observes the things he has in common with the man and wonders where his own path will lead.
The One with the Scraggly Beard is defined by a simple narrative in which a child’s curiosity and perceptiveness act as catalysts for understanding fear, suffering and resilience while exploring themes of homelessness, belonging and compassion. This unique book will speak to children and adults alike. A note from the author explains how the origin of this story is rooted in her own life.
Orca Book Publishers is pleased to offer The One with the Scraggly Beard in two accessible editions. The audiobook features alternate text descriptions of images, including the cover. The epub edition of this title is fully accessible. Available in French as L’Homme à la barbe hirsute.
About the creators
Elizabeth WitheyAuthor
Elizabeth Withey is a Canadian author, journalist and visual artist. Her first book, The One with the Scraggly Beard, is a story about homelessness inspired by family experiences. She is also the author of the picture book Ins and Outs and More Us. Elizabeth lives in Calgary with her son, her brother, a calico cat and a very silly whippet.
Lynn ScurfieldIllustrator
Lynn Scurfield is a freelance illustrator whose work is defined by bright colors, fun textures and strong emotions. Their work has been commissioned by clients such as the New York Times, the Walrus, NPR and Macmillian Publishers. In their spare time, Lynn enjoys knitting, watching tours of beautiful houses online and going on hikes with Taro, her small (but barky) dog. Lynn resides in Toronto.
Data provided by BiblioShare.
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What reviewers said
“A wise and timely tale because young children see what is happening on our streets and wonder why. Withey’s spare text allows the little boy to fill in the spaces as he matures and develops understanding.”
“A powerful book…Models what respect and human dignity looks like for all community members.”
“This compassionate story is inspired by the life of the author’s brother, who is a person experiencing homelessness. The award-winning illustrator manages to depict aspects of homelessness as well as love and happiness.”
“A complex topic painted with care and told with empathy.”
“[A] sensitive story of family and love…Every elementary library should have this thought provoking book on their shelves. This difficult topic of homelessness is explained well in this narrative.”
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