Who’s That Man?

Who’s That Man?
by Marny Duncan-Cary and illustrated by Megan Mansbridge
Published by Your Nickel’s Worth Publishing
Review by Karen Lawson
ISBN 978-1-894431-38-5 $24.95

Marny Duncan-Cary is a talented singer and songwriter from Lumsden, Saskatchewan. Her first book, Linger, was based on an emotional song that she wrote. Once again, Duncan-Cary has taken one of her songs and created a delightful children’s book, entitled Who’s That Man? Her story is based on a real event in the author’s own family history. When her grandfather returned home from fighting in World War II, he had never met his five year old son, Gerry, who was Duncan-Cary’s father.

The inspiration for her song and subsequent book happened after the events of 9-11. Duncan-Cary had never personally experienced the impact of war, and 9-11 triggered a new set of emotions and fears. When her father discussed with her how the impact of war had affected his own childhood and his family dynamics, she put pen to paper and created the song Who’s that Man? It reveals the apprehension and uncertainty between father and son upon meeting for the first time.

This touching book comes complete with a special gift included – a DVD of her song which is tucked in the back cover. The words and musical score of Who’s That Man?” are printed on the last pages of the book as an added bonus.

The pages are sprinkled with black and white photos of her father and grandfather taken from the family photo albums during the time that they were separate. These personal mementos add a realistic touch to the story. The illustrations are by talented artist, Megan Mansbridge. Mansbridge is not only a gifted artist but she is a personal friend of the author. Her bright and colourful pictures make the story come alive. She mixes simplicity with rich textures to create a three dimensional effect that seem to jump off the pages.

This personal story is a tribute to the many families that have been altered by war. Duncan-Cary leaves the reader with the message that although war is destructive and separates families, it cannot destroy the unconditional love and special bonds that exist between them.

THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE ONLINE OR FROM WWW.SKBOOKS.COM