Ben Lucien Burman facts for kids

Ben Lucien Burman (born December 12, 1895 – died November 12, 1984) was an American writer and journalist. He was born in Covington, Kentucky. Ben Burman served in both World War I and World War II. He also studied at Harvard University.

He was married to Alice Caddy. Alice was an artist who drew pictures for many of his books. This included his most famous books, the Catfish Bend series. These stories were loved by both kids and adults. The Catfish Bend series is about many animal friends living in Catfish Bend, Mississippi. These popular books were even translated into eleven different languages! Ben Burman passed away at the age of 88.

Who Was Ben Lucien Burman?

Ben Lucien Burman was a talented author known for his exciting stories. He often wrote about life along the Mississippi River. His books helped readers imagine what it was like to live in different parts of America. He also worked as a journalist, which means he wrote for newspapers and magazines.

Early Life and Adventures

Ben Burman grew up in Kentucky. He later went to college at Harvard. His experiences, including serving in two World Wars, gave him many ideas for his writing. He traveled a lot, which helped him describe places and people in his stories.

Writing Style and Themes

Ben Burman's books often featured adventures and journeys. He had a special way of making places like the Mississippi River come alive. He wrote about the beauty of nature and the interesting people he met. His stories often showed how different characters worked together.

The Famous Catfish Bend Series

The Catfish Bend series is what many people remember Ben Burman for. These books are perfect for young readers. They tell fun and exciting tales about animals.

Meet the Animals of Catfish Bend

In the Catfish Bend books, you'll meet a group of animal friends. They live in a special place in Mississippi. These animals go on many adventures together. They face challenges and learn important lessons. The stories are full of humor and heart.

• High Water at Catfish Bend (1952)
• Seven Stars for Catfish Bend (1956)
• The Owl Hoots Twice at Catfish Bend (1961)
• Blow a Wild Bugle for Catfish Bend (1967)
• High Treason at Catfish Bend (1977)
• The Strange Invasion of Catfish Bend (1980)
• Thunderbolt at Catfish Bend (1984)

Alice Caddy: The Illustrator

Ben Burman's wife, Alice Caddy, was a very important part of his work. She drew the pictures for many of his books. Her illustrations helped bring his stories to life. They made the characters and settings even more real for readers.

Other Notable Books

Besides the Catfish Bend series, Ben Burman wrote many other books. Some of them were also made into movies!

• Mississippi (1929)
  • This book was made into a movie called Heaven on Earth in 1931.
• Steamboat 'round the Bend (1933)
  • This book became a movie in 1935, also called Steamboat Round the Bend. It was directed by a famous filmmaker, John Ford.
• Big River to Cross: Mississippi Life Today (1940)
• Rooster Crows for Day (1945)
• Children of Noah: Glimpses of Unknown America (1951)

Discography

Ben Burman also created an album related to his stories and the Mississippi River.

• Steamboat 'Round the Bend: Songs & Stories of the Mississippi (1956) from Folkways Records.