Through simple text and colourful illustrations, this picture book encapsulates a young boy’s curiosity and desire to understand a man who sleeps under a bridge near his home. With his child’s candour, the boy describes what intrigues him about the man, making connections with things they have in common. He asks his mother questions, wondering if he too will sleep under a bridge when he is older. 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. The focus on personal and social awareness fits the primary Social Studies curriculum. Also available in French, translated by Rachel Martinez.

32 pp., 10 × 10", colour illustrations

Source: Association of Book Publishers of BC - BC Books for Schools (2021-2022)

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

Lynn Scurfield is a freelance illustrator from a quiet suburb outside of Toronto. She received her bachelor of illustration from Sheridan College in 2015 and has been drawing for a variety of clients ever since, including Macmillian Publishers and NPR. Her work has also been commissioned by publications such as the New York Times, The Walrus

and Reader’s Digest Canada.

Lynn Scurfield's profile page

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

“[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.”

Must Read Literature

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

Toronto Star

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

Kirkus Reviews