The Bestest Big Brother, Ever -- Ben Mantle, Hardcover

You love your big brother so much! He's the best. So why doesn't he want you around? Ben Mantle draws from experience in a quintessential sibling story full of warmth and wit.

Nano and his older brother, Felix, are best friends who read each other's minds and have super-secret phrases, like "totally grape." They do everything together! Like playing dino smash monster truckers ("Hey! That's MY car!") or being a pair of totally amazing artistes--until somebody's squiggly line crosses straight through Felix's perfect picture ("Moooom! Look what Nano has done!"). Nano can't wait to join Felix, the bestest big brother ever, inside his incredible tree house . . . but hang on, what's that sign that says "No Nanos Allowed"? Fine! He'll just build his own tree house . . . or rain house . . . wind or no wind . . . In Ben Mantle's classic story of squabbling siblings--the younger one adoring, the older in need of space--the comedic illustrator brings a fresh touch and signature visual humor, building up to a heartwarming denouement sure to resonate with brothers and sisters everywhere.

Author: Ben Mantle
Publisher: Candlewick Press (MA)
Published: 10/07/2025
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.25lbs
ISBN: 9781536245073
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 07/01/2025 pg. 66

About the Author
Ben Mantle is the illustrator of Bunnies on the Bus and its sequels by Philip Ardagh, Follow the Track All the Way Back by Timothy Knapman, Dick the Delightful Duck by Kay Umansky, and King of the Swamp by Catherine Emmett. He is also the author-illustrator of Frog vs. Toad and the Dinostars series as well as The Best Birthday Present Ever! and The Best Christmas Present Ever! Ben Mantle lives in England.