Benjamin Dilley's Thirsty Camel

by Jolly Roger Bradfield

No one but Benjamin can see the wonderful animals he imagines, not even the camel who solves the problem of a leak in Benjamin's basement.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Fiction, Fantasy

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1967

About the author

"Jolly" Roger Bradfield is perhaps best known for his work as a children's book author and illustrator, though he also worked as a cartoonist on the daily comic strip Dooley's World.

He retired from writing in 1988 to focus on painting.

Reviews

[Kathee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite children's books EVER.

[寿理 宮本 · Rating 5 out of 5]

An adorable book about a highly imaginative boy and his experiences with being the only one who can see the wondrous things he can see. When the basement is flooded, what REALLY stops the flooding—Benjamin Dilley's camel, who drinks all the water? or...

I *imagine*! that this would be a cute longer-format story, where even more problems are solved by Benjamin's imagined friends. This is a good length of story, though, just long enough to make its point without belabouring the point. Recommended for imaginative readers of all ages!

Edit: Mine is tagged as Rand McNally, but the cover has an orange title, like other editions. Thought I should point that out, since the thumbnail on this listing has the blue/purple title instead.

[Laura Lynn Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Benjamin Dilley has the most wonderful imagination. He could vividly imagine all sorts of things. He was amazed that no one else saw what he did. When Benjamin's dad is unable to fix a leak in the basement, causing a small catostrophy, his imaginary camel comes to the rescue. I found this book to be visually engaging and very funny. There are three companion books to this title: Giants Come in Different Sizes, The Flying Hockey Stick, and Pickle-Chiffon Pie.

[Papa Moose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite children's books from my youth. It's delightfully imaginative, and I love Mr. Bradfield's unique style where he "spot" colors his pages. In my world Jolly Roger Bradfield would be as big as Dr. Seuss. I was thrilled when Purple House Press brought this and several of his other books back into print. Highly recommended!

[Jean Doolittle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jolly Roger's books are always jolly...full of imagination and fun and lively illustrations!

[Heatherterrybell · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favorites! Kids have the best imaginations

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love all his stories. A good reminder of the power of imagination and the magic of being a kid

[Melissa Mortenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Family favorite!!!

[Tonya Fridley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable

[Debbie Carnahan-Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a favorite of Honey Bunny's when he was younger, but its value was evident before it made a sentimental place for itself in my heart!

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

If anyone has a flood in their basement you will be grateful that your kid has an invisible camel who is thirsty! :-D

[Siskiyou-Suzy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay book -- all about imagination being real.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite as a kid. The book that started it all. :)