About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
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.
Contributor Notes
Elizabeth Withey is a Canadian author, journalist and visual artist. The One with the Scraggly Beard, her first book, is a story about homelessness inspired by family experiences. She has written a second picture book called Ins and Outs. She lives in Calgary with her son, her brother, a calico cat and a very silly whippet.
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.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 3 to 5
- Grade:
- p to k
- Reading age:
- 3 to 5
Awards
- Commended, BC Books for BC Schools
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
- , Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards - Shining Willow
- Commended, Children’s Book Council & National Council for Social Studies Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People
Editorial Reviews
“A powerful book…Models what respect and human dignity looks like for all community members.”
— Toronto Star
“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] 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
