My apologies for neglecting to include “A Bear Called Paddington”, or frankly any of Michael Bond’s delightful Paddington Bear books in my favorite bear books blog posts. While this was a serious error, it prompted Geoff Le Pard to forward me the blog post he wrote about Paddington Bear after author Michael Bond died. My goodness, this is a treasure!
First let me say that I read Paddington Bear books to my children. Here are their two favorites, which have probably been read fifty times each.
I had the good fortune to see the Paddington Bear and Michael Bond exhibit in 2018 at the Eric Carle Museum. The collection of bears was charming. And, so was the original artwork.
Can a single book change the life of a person? You bet it can. Geoff is living proof, and he tells the story beautifully, with deep appreciation to Paddington Bear. Here is his story:
A Teacher's Reflections 
A lovely article, full of warm recollections.
Thanks for reblogging, Jennie.
Best wishes, Pete.
Thank you, Pete. I just added a few photos to the post, which you may have missed. My Paddington books are well worn and well loved. Geoff’s story is incredible.
Just been back to look. 🙂
🙂
thank you for reposting this – he was a wonderful creator of books that children have loved t brought the ages
You are welcome, Beth. He certainly was. Geoff’s story is so moving.
Paddington was the first chapter book I read my children when they were little. I still have the original books and a heart full of wonderful, cozy memories.
That is just wonderful! Thank you! 🙂
A wonderful and heartfelt post by Geoff … good for Paddington Bear coming to rescue!😀 He is a classic and on arriving to the UK at six years old, the series was on TV and I was instantly smitten!
Yes, indeed! One of the best posts I’ve read. And it all came down to a bear. ❤️ How wonderful that you arrived in the UK in time to see the series on TV. Paddington Bear is a classic! Thank you, Annika. 🙂
I love Paddington Bear and Geoff´s story!. Funny how one little bear can make a huge difference.
I think his story is awesome! Yes, one bear made a huge difference. Paddington is beloved.
Ah. Dear Paddington!
Yes, indeed! ❤️
Thank you for this delightful share, Jennie.
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Hook. One of the best posts I’ve read!
thanks for sharing the link Jennie, a devotee for sure … and I also love Paddington 🙂
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Kate. Paddington is beloved! And Geoff’s post is one of the best.
he’s a good writer!
Yes, he is!
I’m another fan of Paddington. I didn’t realize until today that Paddington was born the same year I was. It’s remarkable to think that one author created a character beloved by so many.
How cool to be born the same year as Paddington! He is beloved. And yes, to
think that one author created this character and it lives on.
Jennie, thank you so much for this!
You are welcome, Charles. Geoff’s blog post is one of the best I have read.
The thought did cross my mind that Paddington should have been among the honored bears–but Geoff’s post more than makes up for the omission!
You are right on both counts, Liz!
When I was in England in 1974 I bought a Paddington bear, just in time for my daughter born the next year. Thanks for the reposting.
That is wonderful, Elizabeth! Does she still have the bear? I’m glad you enjoyed Geoff’s post. What a story!
Yes. Paddington has survived intact, hat, boots and all.
I am so glad!! My children’s Paddington did not. And, it did not come with boots.
He needed the boots!
Haha! 🙂
Wow! I didn’t know the Paddington creator had died. I never read the books, sadly. But now I’d like to. I saw the first movie and thought it absolutely delightful!
I know, it was very sad to learn that he died. They are beloved books still today, and will most likely remain popular for,a,very long time. My children loved them. I will have to watch the movie.
You will wondering about, but i know the Paddington Bear, from my childhood. Dont ask me who brought it to us, but we got it. Michael
That is wonderful, Michael! Paddington Bear is a classic.
Indeed. I am so thankful heared about in my childhood.
🙂
Paddington was a favourite I read to my children, In fact my little boy had to have a paddington on his bedspread and I remember we made together a plaster of paris mould of Paddington bear that I painted for him… 🙂
Awww…❤️ How wonderful!
❤
You will wondering about, but i know the Paddington Bear, from my childhood. Dont ask me who brought it to us, but we got it. Michael
Thank you.