David McKee: who was author of Mr Benn and Elmer, what other books did he write and tributes as he dies at 87

Children’s author and illustrator David McKee has died suddenly at the age of 87.

He died surrounded by his family in the South of France, where he spent much of his later life.

McKee created some of children’s most beloved books, including Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, Not Now Bernard the Mr Benn series.

His death was announced on Thursday 7 April 2022 by his publisher Andersen Press.

Here’s what you need to know.

Who was David McKee?

David John McKee was a British writer and illustrator, and mainly created children’s books and animations.

He was born on 2 January 1935 and raised in Tavistock, Devon, and then went on to study at Plymouth College of Art.

He created several characters which have been loved by children through the generations, and the most popular of these was Elmer the Patchwork Elephant.

Elmer was first published by Dobson Books in 1968, and was re-issued by Andersen Press in 1989.

It remains one of the most iconic and widely read children’s book series of all time

In total, McKee created 29 Elmer books which have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide.

The books have also been translated into more than 60 languages and have been adapted as a stage play and an animated TV series.

McKee’s beloved elephant character was also the inspiration for a whole range of merchandise, including soft toys.

Another one of McKee’s most popular characters was Mr Benn.

Mr Benn appears in several children’s books, and he was the subject of an animated television series of the same name which was shown on the BBC in 1971 and 1972.

McKee was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Open University at Plymouth College of Art in 2011.

He was also named the BookTrust Lifetime Achievement Award winner in 2020 and won Illustrator of the Year at that year’s British Book Awards.

What did David McKee’s publisher say about his death?

David McKee’s death was announced on Twitter by his publisher Andersen Press on the morning of Thursday 7 April.

A statement said: “David McKee, beloved creator of iconic children’s books Elmer, Not Now, Bernard and Mr Benn has sadly died following a short illness.

“We all hope his spirit lives on for many more generations through his joyful, heartfelt stories.

“His work allowed him to travel the world, spending extensive periods in Barcelona, Nice, Paris and Italy.

“Most recently he was happy spending time between his home in London and in Provence with his partner of many years, Bakhta.”

To read the full statement, visit the Andersen Press website.

It is not known exactly when McKee died, what illness he had or how long he had been poorly.

Tributes to David McKee

Many people have already left tributes to the beloved writer and illustrator and writer on Twitter.

His long time publisher Klaus Flugge led the tributes and said: ‘I am devastated by the sudden death of my best friend David McKee.

“His was a singular voice and a shining light in children’s books that highlighted inclusivity, diversity and parts of our world that are not always present in publishing for children.

“His books have become part of the canon of children’s literature, and we hope will be enjoyed by children for many more generations to come.

“Not only was I fortunate to be his publisher, he was also a wonderful friend, and he will be missed by many more people than he could ever imagine.”

Gareth Davies, journalist with the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, said: “Sad news. Elmer’s an essential addition to every child’s bookshelf.”

Emily Drabble, head of children’s books promotion and prizes at BookTrust, said: “Just so sad to hear the wonderful David McKee has died, his books have meant so much to so many and I feel so lucky to have got to know him when he came to read Elmer to us with his @BookTrust Lifetime Achievement Award. What an absolute legend.”

Author and illustrator James Mayhew said: “Very sad to hear that the legendary David McKee has died. Such a gentle, modest, generous man, who leaves an astonishing legacy, covering themes of acceptance & pacifism, as relevant today as ever. I guess Mr Benn has stepped through the shopkeeper’s magic door for the last time.”

Twitter was also full of tributes from fans of McKee’s work.

One fan said: “So sad! Not Now, Bernard is a work of genius.”

Another said: “One of the greats. Thanks for the beautiful stories.”

One Twitter user sent well-wishes to McKee’s loved ones.

“Very sad news. What a wonderful creator he was. Sympathies to his family and friends. I’m sure they are aware of how many childrens lives were enriched by his work.”

Another Twitter user said his stories and characters stand the test of time and are loved through the generations.

“A true legend who was an author ahead of his time.  Elmer and Not Now Bernard live on to shape and inspire the way we connect with our children and our children’s children.”