Ben Rides On and Ben Draws Trouble

Ben Rides On and Ben Draws Trouble

Written and Illustrated by Matt Davies

Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Matt Davies has ventured into the world of picture books with two strong entries, Ben Rides On and Ben Draws Trouble.

In Ben Rides On, we meet Ben Lukin, who has just received a brand new bike. This “bicycle of his dreams” allows him to take more scenic routes to school every day. The bike also attracts the attention of school bully, Adrian Underbite. After Adrian steals Ben’s bike, Ben later finds his bike, which has been badly damaged, and Adrian, who is in a dangerous situation. Ben does the right thing and helps Adrian, only to be rewarded by Adrian disappearing with the bike again; however, the ending’s twist is sure to warm the reader’s heart.

Ben Draws Trouble lets us learn a little more about Ben, particularly that he loves to draw, and that he’s actually pretty good at it. That ability leads to some potential trouble with his teacher, Mr. Upright, after Ben loses his sketchbook. Instead of punishing Ben, however, Mr. Upright allows him to use his abilities in a more productive manner.

Both of these books are highly entertaining, and I hope there will be more books featuring Ben in the future!