About This Book
"The Crazy Man" is a powerful and moving free verse novel set in 1965 Saskatchewan, following twelve-year-old Emaline Bitterman. After a devastating tractor accident leaves her permanently disabled and her father, consumed by guilt, abandons the family and shoots their beloved dog, Emaline and her mother must find a way forward. They hire Angus, a gentle man with a mental illness, who faces intense prejudice from the small town. This story beautifully explores themes of grief, resilience, prejudice, and the unexpected places where healing can be found. It's suitable for ages 6-9, offering a rich read-aloud experience or an accessible independent read for older children, prompting important discussions about empathy and acceptance.
Twelve-year-old Emaline Bitterman loves her home on the prairies. She loves helping her father in the fields and her dog, Prince. But farming in southern Saskatchewan in the mid 1960s is not easy. And then one day Emaline tries to stop Prince from chasing a hare into the path of the tractor her father is driving, and her leg is caught in the discer, leaving her with a permanent disability. In his grief and guilt her father shoots Prince and then leaves Emaline and her distraught mother on their own.
Concepts
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Emaline feel about her father leaving? Have you ever felt abandoned or let down by someone you love?
2
Why do the townspeople treat Angus so badly? What does this tell us about prejudice?
3
How does Emaline change throughout the story? What helps her to heal?
4
What does Angus teach Emaline and the town about kindness and understanding?
5
If you were Emaline, what would you do when people were mean to Angus?
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