The Family Under the Bridge

by Natalie Savage Carlson (Author) Garth Williams (Illustrator)

Reading Level: 4th − 5th Grade

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 tween readers in grades 5 to 6. It's a fun way to keep your child entertained and engaged while not in the classroom.

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.

Select format:
Paperback
$8.99

Publishers Weekly

The story of a Parisian tramp, Armand, who finds a ready-made family to live with him under the bridge, was a Newbery Honor book when it was first published more than 30 years ago. 

ALA/Booklist

Told with warmth and humor. A charming and memorable story.

School Library Journal

A thoroughly delightful story of humor and sentiment Garth Williams' illustrations are perfect.

Review quotes



Classification
Fiction
ISBN-13
9780064402507
Lexile Measure
820
Guided Reading Level
R
Publisher
HarperCollins
Publication date
November 12, 2019
Series
-
BISAC categories
JUV007000 - Juvenile Fiction | Classics
JUV039220 - Juvenile Fiction | Social Themes | Values & Virtues
JUV039070 - Juvenile Fiction | Social Themes | Homelessness & Poverty
JUV013000 - Juvenile Fiction | Family | General
Library of Congress categories
France
Paris (France)
Homeless persons
Fatherless families
Paris
Tramps
Newbery Medal
Honor Book 1959 - 1959

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