Caldecott Medal Winner

May I Bring a Friend?

by Beni Montresor

Summary

A young boy receives invitations from the King and Queen and keeps bringing surprising animal guests, from a giraffe to a seal to a whole pride of lions, to tea and dinner at the palace. Beni Montresor fills the pages with delicate, ornate line work and warm splashes of color that give the royal scenes a playful, theatrical charm. Written in rhyme by Beatrice Schenk de Regniers, the story celebrates friendship, hospitality, and the joy of unexpected company.

Historical Context & Significance

Beni Montresor, who illustrated the book, also worked as a designer for opera and theater productions.