Mr. Benn - Red Knight

The Extraordinary Adventures of Mr. Benn

by David McKee

Following the welcomed re-release of Big-Top Benn comes another addition to the immensely popular collection of original Mr Benn adventures by author and illustrator David McKee. First published in 1967, Mr Benn: Red Knight introduces the friendly bowler-hatted character who delighted children a generation ago, and again today. In this fun story, Mr Benn finds himself transported to a medieval world, where he assists an unfortunate dragon whose role as firelighter to the king is threatened by a greedy matchmaker. McKee’s original artwork will entrance children of all ages in what is sure to become a cult classic for yet another generation of readers.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

48 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1967

About the author

David McKee was a British writer and illustrator, chiefly of children's books and animations. He also used the pseudonym Violet Easton. He is frequently referenced as David (John) McKee. He has been commended for his gentle, playful but insightful stories.

For his contribution as a children's illustrator he was UK nominee for the biennial, international Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2006.

Reviews

[Bookjeannnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is magical...so unique with it's mix of black and white line drawings and beautiful full color illustrations! How have I not discovered these books before? There are many, many more and I will be getting them soon. My students will LOVE Mr Benn!

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the alternating black-and-white and color illustrations. I think children will enjoy and appreciate the simplicity. It's definitely not a young child's work but it definitely got a youthful style.
The story reminds me of "The lion, the witch, and the wardrobe". Mr. Benn's pursuit of a fancy outfit leads to an unexpected adventure.

[Scott Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter just brought this back from London for me. I know it doesn't really count in the yearly reading challenge sense but I have such strong memories of this TV series and this episode in particular. I did not realise that the books came first. Go on relive your childhood!

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love this book! I would like to find others in this series and it appears I must go on line to buy as they don't have them in any bookstores...

[Shanshad Whelan · Rating 3 out of 5]

An odd little book, I'm not sure how it would appeal to kids, but I might try it out on them.