Kids Stuff
The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge wins Word Guild Writer’s Award!
On June 11th, Tim’s book The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge won the World Guild Canadian Writer’s Award in the Children’s book category! What follows are the Judges’ comments:
“The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge is striking in appearance, style and content. Amazingly, the author is also the illustrator of this fine production.
The text is direct but very sensitive and wise in dealing with the subject of homelessness. It is explained in terms that a child can understand and at the same time, the author protects the child by suggesting that she/he be present with an adult to visit any homeless person. The rhyme and rhythm also make this book pleasant to the ear of the child.
The Discussion Guide at the back of the book is most practical and helpful for adults.
“Children” does cover a wide age span and generally children’s books are categorized for certain ages or grade levels. Teachers and school librarians would probably like to see it put into a grade/age bracket for a start. (Suggested grades 1 to 5). Perhaps though, since this little book spans the ages nicely, it will become a book that is for all ages – just like Robert Munsch’s picture book, Love You Forever.
The illustrations interweave well the theme and text. The very words of the text with shaky-appearing letters in places and bold bright colours in others help to develop thoughts and feelings and would draw a special response from children. The background reflections in grey emphasize yet again the state of the homeless person even in open sight of our affluent society.
The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge is a grand book – with text and illustrations – interwoven to achieve its purpose in spreading both understanding and also compassion for the homeless. I hope the publisher has entered it into many other competitions as well as this one. It is, indeed, worthy of picking up a number of awards!”
Light Patrol’s interactive children’s workshop on homelessness…
In response to an overwhelming interest (by parent groups and educators) in taking it a step further, the Light Patrol team has created an interactive workshop to complement the book. The teaching session includes an actual life-sized cardboard shack for children to sit in, wet socks to try on as they climb into a sleeping bag, a DVD photo album depicting life on the streets, an opportunity to respond through art, and a unique chance to interact with experienced street outreach workers in a child-friendly and age-appropriate setting.
“Just One More Book” podcast
“Just One More Book” is a published podcast interview program, broadcast out of Ottawa, for listeners across Canada and around the world. Each podcast features a children’s book author, and explores their idea and the process of their work. Click here to listen to Tim’s interview about his children’s book The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge, including information on his upcoming book ideas. Originally broadcast October 19, 2007.
The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge
One of the greatest tragedies of our time is homelessness. In an age of prosperity and plenty, hundreds of thousands of people continue to find themselves homeless. As one of Canada’s leading papers has noted, “Tim Huff is not just another outreach worker, but a tireless activist for the cause of the homeless.”
This book, written and illustrated by Tim Huff, lays the groundwork for parents, teachers and caregivers to begin talking with children about homelessness. Includes sharing pages and a discussion guide for parents, Sunday school teachers and educators. Published by Castle Quay Books.
“With artistry and compassion, this book captures the dignity of people in difficult situations.”
- Dave Toycen, President of World Vision Canada
“Tim’s book needs to be in the hands of every child because it is only through education, understanding and caring that our world will ever change. This book gives a voice to the silent sorrow of homelessness.”
- Colleen Taylor, President of the Ladybug Foundation and mother of Hannah Taylor
Click here to buy The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge