Not Now, Bernard
Age 1+
Picture Storybooks
Bernard's got a problem. He's found a monster in the back garden but his mum and dad are just too busy to notice. So Bernard tries to befriend the monster… and that doesn't go quite to plan.
Loved by children, monsters and adults for thirty five years, David McKee's iconic picture book is celebrated in this special anniversary paperback that includes embossing and a free downloadable audiobook.
Creators
David is the creator of several well-known characters including King Rollo and Mr Benn. His most famous creation is Elmer the Patchwork Elephant which is now published in more than 50 languages and has its own successful global merchandise programme.
David McKee was born in Devon and went to Plymouth Art College, where he had a traditional training. On leaving college he drew regularly for, among others, Punch, Reader’s Digest, and The Times Educational Supplement. His drawings were influenced especially by Saul Steinberg and Andre Francois.
David’s first picture book was one of the stories he had told at college, Two Can Toucan. This was published by Abelard-Schuman in 1964 and the version David re-illustrated in 1985 was re-issued in 2001 by Andersen Press. David has written and illustrated over 50 picture books for Andersen Press including 27 original Elmer stories. David lives in Arles, France.
Reviews
Well-loved classic… Little ones will love (and recognise all too soon!) the oft-repeated ‘Not now, Bernard’, leaving older children and their parents to appreciate the black humour and static, expressive illustrations
Guardian, The Best New Children's Books supplement
Very funny, written very dryly and is a sobering lesson to all us busy parents who sometimes get distracted!
Lucy Owen, Western Mail Cardiff
Opened my eyes to what was possible with children’s writing. Helped me realise that nothing needs to be taboo – its all in how you treat the material.
Sophie Mckenzie, Lovereading Guest Editor
An Andersen classic. Hilarious cautionary tale.
Michael Rosen, Lovereading Guest Editor
This is a true classic!
The Good Book Guide
