4.13 AVERAGE


I enjoyed the sweet stories far more than my children (6.5 and 4 yo) - the proper English and slower plot was less engaging than I'd hoped for our evening read aloud

Such a delightful read! And Stephen fry’s narration made is absolutely perfect. Just what I needed.

4 and a half stars (Goodreads really needs to add a half stars function)

Having only seen the 2014 movie "Paddington" (and loving it) I assumed that the book would follow the same plot, but in fact the book is a series of short stories. It is not any worse for this, as the vignettes are delightful fun-sized packages of entertainment. "A Bear Called Padington" is also not a far fetched fantasy adventure. Instead, author Michael Bond brings all the fun and excitement common in stories such as Harry Potter and Mary Poppins to the rather mundane and drab lives of a normal London family. Well, normal except for having a Peruvian Bear as a member. Paddington manages to bring light and laughter to the smallest of moments like going to a cafe or riding the metro. This is not a laugh out loud type of book but it will certainly make readers smile. In short, Paddington inspires in readers a childlike joy at the marvels of being alive. This is certainly a book that I wish to reread for decades to come.

With the recent passing of Michael Bond, it seemed fitting to revisit Paddington. Alongside the likes of other classics such as Corduroy and Madeline, I recall the little bear from childhood. It was lovely to again read these sweet tales of his humorous foibles. I was struck by his earnest sense of right and wrong, and his good manners; today, more than ever, those are needed in the world. I can also appreciate his spendthrift ways. Always good to save a pence!

This book is the first one in the Paddington series. Although it is quite different from the 2014 movie I've seen, it is still a pretty enjoyable read. It is a children's book so don't expect much complexity, but a small bear getting in trouble instead.


Cute, funny, adorable. Everything I needed this holiday season.
funny lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Loveable characters: Yes
adventurous lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A classic. I don’t think anyone can disagree that Paddington is an excellent little fellow and all his adventures and mishaps are enjoyable for everyone. 
adventurous lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

There is a reason this is a classic. Such a sweet story about a hapless bear living with a well off British family. I love the serial nature of the book, Paddington finds himself in and out of a new mess in each chapter. In this book he takes his first bath, visits the theater, goes to the seaside, and wins a painting contest.