The heartwarming and memorable Newbery Honor-winning book about finding family in the unlikeliest places, featuring artwork by beloved illustrator Garth Williams. This middle grade novel is an excellent choice for readers in grades 5 to 6, especially during homeschooling.

Armand, an old man living on the streets of Paris, relishes his solitary life in the beautiful city. He is happy with his carefree existence, begging and doing odd jobs to keep himself warm and fed. With simple pleasures and no cares, what more could he need?

Then one day just before Christmas, Armand returns to his favorite spot beneath the bridge to find three cold and hungry children. Although he has no interest in children, Armand soon finds himself caring for the small family. It does not take Armand very long to realize that he must do whatever it takes to get them a real home.

Children will treasure this warm and funny adventure of family, freedom, and Santa Claus. The book includes illustrations by Garth Williams, the acclaimed illustrator of E. B. White's Charlotte's Web and Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series.

About the Author: 

Natalie Savage Carlson is fondly remembered as the author of the much-loved Orpheline series and Surprise in the Mountains. Born in Virginia, Ms. Carlson later lived in Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and the Pacific Northwest. She eventually settled in Florida prior to her death.