WELCOME
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here.
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For more than thirty-five years, I shared bedtime stories about Benji the Bear with my children and later with my grandchildren. Every story was filled with adventure, friendship, laughter, and the simple moments that make childhood so special.
What began as nightly storytelling became treasured family memories—and now those stories are becoming books for families everywhere to enjoy together.
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The very first Benji book holds a special place in my heart because it was illustrated entirely by my two grandsons when they were only four and five years old. Their creativity, imagination, and love helped bring Benji’s world to life in a way that only children can.
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This latest book marks the beginning of a series, “battle-tested” over the years at bedtime, with original stories and artwork created by the author.
Whether you are a parent, grandparent, teacher, or young reader, I hope these stories inspire joyful read-aloud moments, warm conversations, and memories that last for generations.
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Thank you for visiting and becoming part of Benji’s journey!
About Me
My name is Mark Hilborn
I am a retired sales professional with a 40-year career in technology and healthcare. After decades of building a successful career and raising a family, I turned my attention to something even closer to my heart—sharing stories that inspire children and families.
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What began as a nightly made-up story of a silly bear who loved blueberry pie with my first child, slowly became a treasured nightly family tradition passed from one generation to the next.
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My favorite moment was having my 5-year grandson read my book to me with all the same enthusiasm and expression he had heard before!
Benji the Bear©
Who is Benji the Bear?
Throughout the years, I entertained my young children—and later my grandchildren—with hundreds of bedtime stories about Benji the Bear.
Each child believed the stories were created just for them, with characters inspired by their own lives and adventures.
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​So, grab a slice of blueberry pie, gather your little ones close, and join Benji and his friends for adventures filled with silliness, friendship, and imagination.
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Welcome to the Benji the Bear family!
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