A little girl is forced to contend with a boarder, Timmerman, when he temporarily occupies the bedroom of her Granddad, who has moved to a senior citizens’ home. Despite her resentment, the little girl begins to appreciate the boarder’s kindness, diligence, helpfulness and soft-spoken demeanor. But Timmerman’s mysterious late-night walks, carrying a spade and burlap sack, raise everyone’s suspicions. The little girl’s loyal support and defense bring on peer teasing and even a black eye. Debon’s deep, dark, Depression-era–style paintings rendered in gouache and colored and wax pencils show one man’s work ethic opposite a child’s intuitive yet waning confidence in a story filled with mystery, misperceptions, doubt and friendship. When all the evidence points to the rumors, a surprise parting gift from Timmerman is discovered as spring flowers bloom. Readers’ and listeners’ predictions will abound as will discussion of how one’s actions should be interpreted and noted. Provocative. (Picture book. 6-8)
