February 7, 2012

Crazy man


by Pamela Porter

After a terrible farm accident, Emaline's father abandons his family. To make ends meet, Emaline's mother hires a man from the psychiatric hospital to tend the crops. The townsfolk are scared of Angus. They think he'll steal things or break into their homes. But as Emaline gets to know him, she finds that he is gentle, kind, and likes animals. Angus becomes a comforting presence as she deals with the pain of her injury and the loss of her father. 

Written in free verse, the novel explores themes of love, loss, loyalty, ignorance, and cruelty. It also shines a light on the stigma associated with depression and mental illness. 

A tender and important book, winner of the 2005 Governor General's Literary Award.


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