David McKee, the children’s author and illustrator best-known for books such as and Mr Benn, has died at the age of 87.
His publisher, Andersen Press, announced the news in a statement, saying that he died following a short illness.
‘It is with great sadness that we announce the death of David McKee, beloved author and illustrator for children, and creator of iconic children’s books Elmer, Not Now, Bernard and Mr Benn,’ they wrote.
‘David died surrounded by his family, following a short illness in the South of France, where he has spent a lot of time in recent years; he was 87.’
The publisher said that they ‘hope his spirit lives on for many more generations through his joyful and heartfelt stories’.
Klaus Flugge, McKee’s longtime publisher, said that he was ‘devastated by the sudden death’ of his ‘best friend’.
‘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,’ Flugge said.
‘His classic books include Elmer, Two Monsters and Not Now, Bernard, amongst many, many others, have become part of the canon of children’s literature, and we hope will be enjoyed by children for many more generations to come.’
The publisher added that McKee was a ‘wonderful friend’ who will be ‘missed by many more people than he could ever imagine’.
Diana Gerald, the CEO of children’s reading charity , said that the organisation is ‘devastated’ to hear of his death.
‘David’s incredible and unique contribution to children’s literature crosses cultures, languages and generations. Throughout his life, he has championed the importance of children’s books – how they shape attitudes and open doors to get children reading,’ Gerald said.
‘We are so grateful for his long-standing support of our work, and we were honoured to recognise him with our Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020.’
She added that the late writer’s ‘special books and iconic characters have brought so many smiles to children’s faces across the generations, inspiring them to pick up their next book and we know they’ll continue to do so’.
Elmer, which was first published in 1968 by Dobson Books before being reissued by Andersen Press in 1989, remains a beloved children’s book series to this day, having sold over 10million copies.
McKee wrote and illustrated 29 original books based on the colourful character.
Born in 1935 in Devon, the late writer spent the early stages of his career selling humorous illustrations to magazines and newspapers, before Flugge published his first book, Two Can Toucan, in 1964, about a toucan that could carry two cans of paint on its bill.
Over a decade later, the publisher launched Andersen Press, with McKee creating over 50 books for the company.
In addition to his many books, which included titles such as Not Now and Bernard, McKee also worked as an artist on animated programmes, including the adaptation of his book Mr Benn, telling the story of an explorer who went on exciting adventures through a magic costume shop.
In 2011, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Open University at Plymouth, having studied at Plymouth Art College.
He had recently been splitting his time between his home in London and Provence with his longtime partner Bakhta.
