Western Morning News (Saturday)
Tributes to author who brought joy to generations
TRIBUTES have been paid to iconic Devon children’s author David McKee who has died following a short illness at the age of 87.
David, who was born in Devon in 1935 and grew up in Tavistock, attending Plymouth Art College, before going on to have a long and successful career as a children’s author and illustrator for books such as Elmer, Mr Benn and Not Now, Bernard.
Following the news of his passing, tributes have been flooding in after book publishers Andersen Press broke the news on their website. In a statement, the publisher said: “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’s long time publisher Klaus Flugge said: “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.
“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. My thoughts, and those of everyone at Andersen Press, are with his family and many friends around the world.”
Fellow children’s author Philip Ardagh took to social media to say: “Very sad news about the death of David McKee creator of, amongst others, Elmer the elephant. It has been one of the very real pleasures in life being a friend of Elmer. ‘Twas a grand day when @KlausFlugge presented me with an Elmer badge in recognition. RIP.”
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 and pacifism, as relevant today as ever. I guess Mr Benn has stepped through the shopkeeper’s magic door for the last time!”
Emily Drabble, head of children’s books promotion and prizes at BookTrust, wrote on twitter: “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.”