Children's author David McKee dies, aged 87

HIGHLY-regarded children’s author and illustrator David McKee has died, at the age of 87.

McKee, author of dozens of titles for children, passed away after a ‘short illness’.

David McKee (CREDIT headshot: Thesupermat - creative commons: CC BY-SA 3.0)

Born in 1935 in Tavistock, Devon, McKee’s first published title was Two Can Toucan in 1964.

Remarkably, McKee then went on to have work published every decade until his last title: 2018’s Elmer’s Walk.

McKee’s Elmer series, which featured a patchwork elephant, is perhaps his best-known collection of titles. But his much-loved stories also include the King Rollo series and 1980’s Not Now Bernard.

The 13-episode Mr Benn TV series was also based on a character created by McKee.

As reported by Huffington Post, his publisher confirmed the news of his passing, saying:

“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.”

“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.

“All at Andersen Press hope his spirit lives on for many more generations through his joyful, heartfelt stories.”

David McKee’s works include Not Now Bernard, Elmer and Two Can Toucan

The much-respected Klaus Flugge, a friend and publisher of McKee has released his own touching statement too:

“I am devastated by the sudden death of my best friend, David McKee. He was as close to Andersen Press as I am.

“He was there from the very beginning and essential to the origin of the company. He became great friends with everyone he encountered – staff, authors and illustrators alike.

“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 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.”

McKee was made an honourary doctorate of Arts by Plymouth University in 2011, and in 2020 he was awarded a Booktrust Lifetime Achievement Award.

Speaking about the award, McKee said: he’d “never been one for the spotlight or winning awards”. But it’s clear he certainly deserved it.

Our thoughts are with his loved ones.