Michael was told to never ask Grandpa about World War II and to not stare at his disfigurement. As the years go by, he watches Grandpa with genuine love and fascination. When Michael becomes a young adult, it is Grandpa who offers the tale of his life. In delicate screen print, his saddening story of survival begins to unfold. The veteran's heroic tale is an honest account of deep sorrow and misguided survivor guilt. Half a Man is a reminder to love and respect those who have given their lives during times of war.

1995 Costa Children's Book Finalist.

Michael Morpurgo is an author, poet, and playwright and from 2003 - 2005 he was the British Children's Laureate. He currently lives in England. Gemma O'Callaghan is a UK based illustrator and printmaker.

England. Originally published in English as Half a Man by Walker Bools in 2014. Published in the United States by Candlewick Press in 2015.

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.