HOL

Title of the book: A Bear Called Paddington

Authors: Michael Bond

Series: Paddington books

Genres: Humour, short story, adventure

Short summary of the story: There are 8 short stories in this book. The first story is an introduction and an explanation to how Paddington the Bear came to London from Darkest Peru. Paddington was spotted by the Brown family who took him in and decided to raise him. The second short story is about Paddington’s first day at the Browns. The third story is of Paddington’s adventures in the London Underground. The fourth is about Paddington getting his signature coat and hat. The next short stories are of Paddington’s adventures and for some reason always ending up in the middle of everything. Paddington goes to the theater, the seaside, and a painting competition that Paddington/Mr.Brown won.

Good points / bad points: The short stories are very humorous and lighthearted. They are sure to make you laugh and each story can be read on its own, as with the others in this book. Since this is the first book of the Paddington series, you get introduced to interesting characters, which come back later. Paddington is a fun, quick read if you want to relax and have a good laugh. Also, two movies have been made based on the books.

I read this book because Shadow had recommended it so highly. I found it to be utterly delightful!

Here is a bear who goes on a journey and discovers a whole new world (and family). The mischiefs that this bear gets into are both refreshing and highly funny! Also, the family with whom he ends up have a sort of 'experience of waking up' to other possibilities which exist in the world, because of the advent of Paddington into their lives.

Some of it is sad, some happy, some hilarious and some just very, very good.

Goodreads has this to say about Paddington:

Mr. and Mrs. Brown first met Paddington, a most endearing bear from Darkest Peru on a railway platform in London. A sign hanging around his neck said, "Please look after this bear. Thank you" So that is just what they did.

From the very first night when he attempted his first bath and ended up nearly flooding the house, Paddington was seldom far from imminent disaster. Jonathan and Judy were delighted with this havoc and even Mr. and Mrs. Brown had to admit that life seemed to be more filled with adventure when there was a bear in the house.