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.

Elizabeth Withey est à la fois journaliste, autrice et artiste en arts visuels. Elle a passé son enfance à la campagne en Saskatchewan à lire des livres empruntés à la bibliothèque régionale de Wapiti. Elle a été autrice en résidence à la bibliothèque municipale d’Edmonton, ainsi que journaliste et chroniqueuse à l’Edmonton Journal. Établie à Calgary, Elizabeth est productrice à CBC Radio. L’Homme à la barbe hirsute s’inspire des réactions de son fils après avoir aperçu son oncle qui vit dans la rue depuis 2015.

Elizabeth Withey's profile page

Kelly Nakatsuka is a former CBC broadcaster and journalist who spends his time these days as a father, husband, concert promoter and counselling therapist in Victoria BC. He loves telling stories and thoroughly enjoys lending his voice to the wonderful tales published by Orca Book Publishers. Kelly loves living and working on the West Coast and is honoured and humbled to call the unceded traditional territories of the Lekwungen and Hul’qumi’num speaking peoples his home.

Kelly Nakatsuka's profile page

• Nominated, Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards - Shining Willow
• Commended, BC Books for BC Schools
• Commended, Children’s Book Council & National Council for Social Studies Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People
• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens

“A complex topic painted with care and told with empathy.”

Kirkus Reviews

“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.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“A powerful book…Models what respect and human dignity looks like for all community members.”

Toronto Star

“[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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