Bernard Most, Beloved Children's Author and Illustrator, Passes Away at Age 88

Bernard Most, the acclaimed author and illustrator whose imaginative and humorous children's books delighted generations of young readers, passed away on April 18, 2026. He was widely celebrated for his ability to blend playful storytelling with gentle lessons, creating works that were as engaging as they were enduring.

Born in New York City on September 2, 1937, to Max and Bertha Most, Bernie developed an early love of art and storytelling that would shape his life's work. He studied at the Pratt Institute, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts with honors in 1959, and went on to build a distinguished career in advertising. He began as an art director at McCann-Erickson (1959-1965), then served as vice president and associate creative director at Benton & Bowles (1965-1979), followed by senior vice president and creative director at MCA Advertising (1979-1986). He later co-founded the consulting firm Bernie & Walter Inc. with his longtime creative partner, Walter Cohen. Their personal theme was, ''There are many creative teams, but only one Bernie & Walter.'' Together, they produced numerous successful advertising campaigns and received multiple industry honors, including two Clio Awards.

Bernie ultimately found his true calling in children's literature, publishing his first book in 1978. Over the course of his career, he wrote and illustrated more than 40 books, many of which became beloved fixtures in classrooms and homes around the world. He is perhaps best known for titles such as If the Dinosaurs Came Back, The Cow That Went Oink, and Zoodles.

His books were characterized by distinctive, colorful illustrations, effortless and clever narratives, and a distinctive sense of humor that resonated with children and adults alike. Through his work, he encouraged curiosity, imagination, and kindness, often using animals in fantastical scenarios to explore real-world ideas.

Educators and parents praised Bernie's ability to engage older readers, while children were drawn to the warmth and wit of his stories. His books have been translated into multiple languages and continue to inspire new generations. He became a glowing example of persistence which he passed to everyone he met.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bernie will be remembered as a gentle and creative spirit who took great joy in connecting with readers. He frequently visited schools and libraries across the country, sharing his love of storytelling and encouraging children to explore their own creativity.

Bernie married Amy Beth Pollack, whom he met while working at McCann-Erickson, in 1967. Together they made their home in Scarsdale, New York, where they raised their family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Amy, and his son, Eric. He was also predeceased by his favorite cousin, Jacquelyn, who passed away in March.

He is survived by his loving family: his son, Glenn; his daughters-in-law, Lisa and Naomi; and his cherished grandchildren, Samantha, Nicholas, Coby, Gavriel, and Adina, who carry forward his creative spirit and love of storytelling. He is also survived by his brother, Mel, of Clifton Park, New York. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and brother, Bernie treasured time with his family and often drew inspiration from those closest to him. A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, he rarely missed a game and found great joy in sharing his love of baseball with his children and grandchildren.

Bernard Most leaves behind an impressive literary legacy that has touched countless lives, but those who knew him best will remember him first and foremost as a devoted family man. His greatest joy came from the time he spent with his loved ones, whose presence inspired both his life and his work. He will be deeply missed, yet fondly remembered through the timeless worlds he created for his readers and the lasting memories he shared with his family.

In his memory, please consider making a donation to the Bernard Most Endowed Scholarship Fund at Pratt Institute Pratt Institute - Make a Gift - Pratt Institute or The Parkinson's Foundation