"Ben and Me" has maintained its popularity well beyond its initial publication, remaining in print for over fifty years. This enduring appeal is reflected in its presence in educational settings as secondary reading material and its successful adaptation into an animated feature film. An accomplished illustrator since the 1910s, Robert Lawson gained significant recognition in 1936 with his illustrations for the beloved story of Ferdinand the bull, as retold by Munro Leaf.

Lawson's talents were not confined to illustrating others' works. In 1940, he created "They Were Strong and Good," a deeply personal project that depicted his own family's history through illustrations complemented by a sparse narrative. This work earned him the prestigious Caldecott Medal. His creativity flourished further with "Rabbit Hill" (1944), a charming tale centered on Little Georgie, a young rabbit, and his interactions with the "new folks." This book garnered the Newbery Medal in 1945, affirming Lawson's skill in crafting engaging stories for younger readers.

Following "Ben and Me," Lawson continued to explore the genre of animal-narrated historical biographies. Among these works are "I Discover Columbus" (1941), told from the perspective of a parrot, and "Mr. Revere and I" (1953), narrated by a horse. These stories highlight Lawson's unique ability to blend whimsical narratives with historical contexts, captivating young audiences while educating them about significant historical figures and events.

Throughout his career, Lawson emerged as a prolific author of children's literature and an exceptional illustrator, securing his place as a major figure in the field for numerous decades. Among his many contributions, "Ben and Me" remains one of the most beloved and enduring, continuously capturing the imaginations of new generations of readers.