Throughout. his books, David M cKee has created a host o f central character types for children to get to know. The characters are a mixture o f male and female, animal (Elmer), human (M r Benn, Mary, Bernard and Isabel) and the inanimate (monsters in Not Now, Bernard and Two Monsters). Each one is special in some way, displays child-like innocence and yet can be so ordinary:

• Elmer thinks he’s different, yet tries to be one o f the crowd. He is mischievous, has fun with his friends and gets into and out o f difficulties. Mary has a secret that in the end she cannot keep. Veronica works hard to develop her special talent. Isabel is embarrassed by her noisy tummy. Bernard needs someone to listen to him. M r Benn is a. kind5 considerate man who does his best to help people he meets.