1016 Balmoral Road, Victoria, BC, Canada V8T 1A8

One With the Scraggly Beard, The

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.

Written by: Elizabeth Withey
Illustrated by: Lynn Scurfield
Picture Book
Format: Hardcover
Ages: 3-5
Pages: 32
Dimensions: Height 10 in, Width 10 in
Originally published in North America: Fall 2020
All rights available excluding North American English and French

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Author: Elizabeth Withey

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 lives in Calgary with her son, her brother, a calico cat and a very silly whippet.

Illustrator: Lynn Scurfield

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.