CHITTY CHITTY
BANG BANG

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang book

Best known as the creator of James Bond, Ian Fleming is the surprise author of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang", the children's book which later became such a hit at the Box Office.

Fleming began his career as a writer rather later in life at the age of 43. He started his first Bond novel shortly before getting married in 1952 and often joked that writing was the only way he could calm his nerves before the big event. From this moment until his untimely death in 1964, Fleming achieved international success as the creator of one of the most legendary literary characters but few are aware that he is also the writer of the well known children's classic.

In 1964 Ian Fleming had a major heart attack. It was during his convalescence that he decided to turn the bedtime stories he had been telling his little son Casper, into a book for children. This book became Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: the story of the adventures of inventor Commander Caractacus Potts, his wife Mimsie, their two children Jeremy and Jemima and the wonderful Chitty Bang Bang car which could float on water and even fly!

The story

The family acquire a broken down old car and the Commander sets to work to repair it. Once mended it is clear that this is no ordinary car... and so begins an adventure for the Potts Family involving a trip across the Channel, a kidnapping and a run in with a mob of gangsters.

The book was originally published in three parts and illustrated by well known children’s author and illustrator John Burningham. The three books were later combined to become: "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: The Magical Car" by US publishers Random House. The book inspired Cubby Broccoli to create a big screen version and while the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang movie differs greatly from the book, some original themes remain. The magical qualities of both book and movie continue to delight children all over the world.

More information about Ian Fleming can be found at his official website: www.ianfleming.com.