Half a Man [Hardcover]

Revered author Michael Morpurgo evokes the post-war Britain of his childhood in this unflinching and deeply poignant tale of the physical and mental scars of war.

From a young age, Michael was both fascinated by and afraid of his grandfather. Grandpa’s ship was torpedoed during the Second World War, leaving him with terrible burns. Every time he came to stay, Michael was warned by his mother that he must not stare, he must not make too much noise, he must not ask Grandpa any questions about his past. As he grows older, Michael stays with his grandfather during the summer holidays and learns the story behind Grandpa’s injuries, finally getting to know the real man behind the solemn figure from his childhood. Michael can see beyond the burns, and this gives him the power to begin healing scars that have divided his family for so long.Morpurgo writes with great sensitivity and grace... Veterans are still returning from war with scars and trauma; this short story may help families heal.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Morpurgo has penned an extraordinary little book of pain and triumph. ... The text is lovingly illustrated by O’Callaghan in ink with a screen-printing technique that captures the story and the emotions brilliantly. ... With our returning wounded warriors of today, this is a timely and superb addition to all collections and not to be missed.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

At once stark and tender, this slim volume brims with the pain of loss but also, finally, with the happier ache of loving reconciliation.
—The Wall Street Journal

O’Callaghan’s saturated pen-and-ink illustrations reflect the magnitude of Morpurgo’s storytelling, creating full-page vistas and adding movement to the narrative through smaller action panels. Well suited for the more serious or contemplative reader, this is rich with positive insights into ways goodness can surpass one&lc)