Lynne Reid Banks husband, Chaim Stephenson, was a Jewish sculptor. The couple’s meeting was a fateful one that saw a decades-long happy marriage.
The literary world is mourning the loss of its gem, Lynne Reid Banks, who penned forty-eight books.
The lady’s most notable work was the children’s novel The Indian in the Cupboard, which was adapted into the 1995 film of the same name.
Key Takeaways:
- Lynne Reid Banks and her husband, Chaim Stephenson, were married for over fifty years.
- The pair had a fateful meeting that turned into marriage.
- Lynne Reid Banks welcomed three sons, Adiel, Gillon, and Omri Stephenson.
The fantasy novel revolves around the story of a young boy named Omri who finds a magical cupboard. It was followed by four sequels: The Return of the Indian, The Secret of the Indian, The Mystery of the Cupboard, and The Key to the Indian.
Likewise, Lynne’s debut novel, The L-Shaped Room, was made into a movie. The film was followed by two sequels, The Backward Shadow and Two Is Lonely.
Lynne Reid Banks Husband, Chaim Stephenson, Is No More
The British author had a spectacular career that saw many highs and lows. However, throughout her journey, one man always stood by her side: her spouse, Chaim Stephenson.
The couple met in England when Banks had just returned from Israel. At that time, Chaim was on a one-year release to study sculpture in London.
The remarkable sculpture by Chaim Stephenson dedicated by Archbishop Desmond Tutu @stmartins_music today pic.twitter.com/S6CxK4PYvR
— 4barsrest.com (@4barsrest) June 4, 2021
Before that, Stephenson worked as a shepherd on a kibbutz for twenty years. It was a fateful meeting for the duo, as Lynne needed to marry someone involved in Israel.
I needed to marry not only somebody Jewish but somebody actively involved in Israel, so it was a very happy meeting.
He strengthened my commitment through his own strong convictions.
After Chaim returned to Israel, Banks chased after him. Soon, they fell in love and married in 1965.
The pair had a wedding in Cyprus, as Stephenson was a non-Jew. Later, he created many masterpieces with Jewish, family, and refugee themes.
Lynne Reid Banks’ husband also had exhibitions in the UK and the US. Moreover, his Soweto sculpture is in St Martin in-the-fields Church in London.
Sadly, the talented sculptor passed away in 2016. His wife shared a lengthy obituary to him in the Guardian.
Lynne Reid Banks And Chaim Stephenson Welcomed Three Sons
The late author welcomed three sons, Adiel Stephenson, Gillon Stephenson, and Omri Stephenson.
Lynne got an idea for her best-selling novel, The Indian In The Cupboard, through her youngest, Omri. What started as a bedtime story later became a saga of five novels.
Lynne Reid Banks’ middle child, Gillon Stephenson, collaborated with her in her novel, The Red Red Dragon. He is married to his wife, Olga Stephenson.
The pair were taking care of the author until her tragic demise. Gillon also shared how his mom left a massive legacy behind and how many people messaged him about her contribution.
However, little is known about Lynne Reid Banks’ eldest son, Adiel. Banks also had several grandchildren.
FAQ’s
When Was Lynne Reid Banks Born?
The British author was born on July 31, 1929, in London.
Who Were Lynne Reid Banks’ Parents?
Lynne Reid Banks’ parents were James and Muriel Reid Banks. Her father was a Scottish doctor, while her mother was an Irish actress.
How Much Was Lynne Reid Banks’ Net Worth In 2024?
Lynne Reid Banks’ net worth is estimated in six figures.
Did Lynne Reid Banks Ever Remarry?
After losing her husband in 2016, Lynne Reid Banks never remarried.
