The man who lives under the bridge, he's just like me.

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. (From Orca Book Publishers)

Elizabeth Withey is a Saskatoon journalist, author, visual artist and CBC Radio producer. The One with the Scraggly Beard is her first children's book.

Lynn Scurfield is an artist and illustrator from Ontario. She also illustrated the picture book All the Ways Home by Elsie Chapman.