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More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear
Michael Bond never intended to be a children’s writer. Though an avid reader, he was by no means a model student and quit school at 14. He repaired rooftop radio transmitters during the bombing of Britain in World War II and later joined the army. He wrote about the war and more, selling stories here and there.
One day, while searching for inspiration at his typewriter, hoping for a big story that would allow him to write full time, a stuffed bear on top of the shelf—a Christmas present for his wife—suddenly caught his eye. Bond poured his personal feelings about the events of his era—the refugee children his family had hosted in the countryside, a war-torn country in recovery, the bustling immigrant neighborhood where he lived—into the story of a little bear from Peru who tries very, very hard to do things right. The result was A Bear Called Paddington.
An incredible true tale, More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear is the first biography about the writer behind the beloved series. Author Rosanne Tolin reveals how world history, Bond’s life, and 1950s immigrant culture were embedded into Paddington’s creation, bringing middle-grade readers a delightful, informative, and engaging book with a timely message of acceptance.
One day, while searching for inspiration at his typewriter, hoping for a big story that would allow him to write full time, a stuffed bear on top of the shelf—a Christmas present for his wife—suddenly caught his eye. Bond poured his personal feelings about the events of his era—the refugee children his family had hosted in the countryside, a war-torn country in recovery, the bustling immigrant neighborhood where he lived—into the story of a little bear from Peru who tries very, very hard to do things right. The result was A Bear Called Paddington.
An incredible true tale, More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear is the first biography about the writer behind the beloved series. Author Rosanne Tolin reveals how world history, Bond’s life, and 1950s immigrant culture were embedded into Paddington’s creation, bringing middle-grade readers a delightful, informative, and engaging book with a timely message of acceptance.
176 pages, Hardcover
Published March 3, 2020
6 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
About the author
Rosanne Tolin
2 books77 followersBorn and raised in St. Louis, MO, Rosanne Tolin is a wife, mother of four, avid runner and author. While studying law abroad in London, she subsisted mainly on a diet of tea and toast, and frequented Paddington Station. An experienced and well-respected journalist, she has focused her work primarily on children's publications. She was the former creator and editor of an ALA notable children's website, managing editor of Guideposts for Kids magazine, and a Hoosier State Press Award-winning features writer. When not writing, she can be found hiking with her dogs in the Indiana Dunes.
MORE THAN MARMALADE: MICHAEL BOND AND THE STORY OF PADDINGTON BEAR is her book debut.
MORE THAN MARMALADE: MICHAEL BOND AND THE STORY OF PADDINGTON BEAR is her book debut.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 1, 2020
I received a copy of this book for free as part of an Instagram book tour (MTMC Tours specifically) I did to promote the book.
This was such a delightful book for young readers!
This book is aimed towards children aged 9 to 12, so I’m not exactly the target audience. That being said, I still enjoyed it!
I’m a fairly new Paddington fan. I never read the books growing up. But then I saw the movie in 2014 and absolutely fell in love with him!
I always love learning about famous authors so it was very interesting learning about the man behind the bear. It was very evident that a lot of love went into creating Paddington.
The author did a nice job making the story accessible for the age range. For example, she explained World War II very well, in easy to understand terms.
I also thought the author emphasized all the right things. She used a lot of what Michael experienced and saw growing up and showed how it influenced the character of Paddington. For example, Michael’s experience with WWII refugees influenced Paddington’s own journey to a new world.
Lastly, there was one quote I really loved that summed up Michael and Paddington very well. The author writes, “In some ways, Michael was Paddington Bear. In other ways, Paddington Bear was Michael. Together, the fictional character and the writer were an ideal twosome. They spread a lot of joy, and it was doubly returned to them” (pg 106).
Overall, this biography is perfect for both young and adult fans of Paddington!
This was such a delightful book for young readers!
This book is aimed towards children aged 9 to 12, so I’m not exactly the target audience. That being said, I still enjoyed it!
I’m a fairly new Paddington fan. I never read the books growing up. But then I saw the movie in 2014 and absolutely fell in love with him!
I always love learning about famous authors so it was very interesting learning about the man behind the bear. It was very evident that a lot of love went into creating Paddington.
The author did a nice job making the story accessible for the age range. For example, she explained World War II very well, in easy to understand terms.
I also thought the author emphasized all the right things. She used a lot of what Michael experienced and saw growing up and showed how it influenced the character of Paddington. For example, Michael’s experience with WWII refugees influenced Paddington’s own journey to a new world.
Lastly, there was one quote I really loved that summed up Michael and Paddington very well. The author writes, “In some ways, Michael was Paddington Bear. In other ways, Paddington Bear was Michael. Together, the fictional character and the writer were an ideal twosome. They spread a lot of joy, and it was doubly returned to them” (pg 106).
Overall, this biography is perfect for both young and adult fans of Paddington!
July 4, 2020
Most everyone knows Paddington bear from either the books, the stuffed animal, or the movies. But how many know the story behind Paddington Bear?
This biography about Michael Bond is well researched from the bibliography listed at the back and it is obvious the author took great care in creating this book. While this book is aimed at middle-grade, it can be ready by anyone and I found it endearing and educational at the same time. This book follows the life of Michael Bond from his early years until his passing. It reflects his thoughts and emotions during WWII and what he observed including the children that would show up in his town with name tags hanging from them. Many of the families took in multiple children to keep them safe from the unrest in their country. These children were scared of what might happen to them or their families and I'm sure it was a huge adjustment for them. This experience made an impact on Michael and is part of how Paddington came to be years later.
Here are a few of my favorite lines:
"I could have pasted my room with rejection slips," he later said. "But I never gave up."
This book showcases one of the world's beloved bears and is well worth the read. If you have a child that needs to read a biography, this would be a wonderful one for them to read especially if they are familiar with Paddington Bear. Even if they are not, it will most likely spur interest in the lovable bear. If you are a teacher, this would be a wonderful classroom addition.
We give this book 5 paws up.
This biography about Michael Bond is well researched from the bibliography listed at the back and it is obvious the author took great care in creating this book. While this book is aimed at middle-grade, it can be ready by anyone and I found it endearing and educational at the same time. This book follows the life of Michael Bond from his early years until his passing. It reflects his thoughts and emotions during WWII and what he observed including the children that would show up in his town with name tags hanging from them. Many of the families took in multiple children to keep them safe from the unrest in their country. These children were scared of what might happen to them or their families and I'm sure it was a huge adjustment for them. This experience made an impact on Michael and is part of how Paddington came to be years later.
Here are a few of my favorite lines:
"I could have pasted my room with rejection slips," he later said. "But I never gave up."
This book showcases one of the world's beloved bears and is well worth the read. If you have a child that needs to read a biography, this would be a wonderful one for them to read especially if they are familiar with Paddington Bear. Even if they are not, it will most likely spur interest in the lovable bear. If you are a teacher, this would be a wonderful classroom addition.
We give this book 5 paws up.
April 30, 2020
I feel so emotional right now! After reading More Than Marmalade, I realized how little I knew of the story of Paddington Bear. When I was little, I used to watch the show all the time and back then my kid mind only saw a cute bear with his adventures. But now, after reading this book, I can see that it was so much more than that. It talks about migration, difficult times after WWII, learning to live in another place, among other topics. I enjoyed reading about the life of Michael Bond and his hardships both as an author and living through his period of time.
Favorite Quote:
"Unless an author believes in his character," Michael said, "no one else is going to. Paddington isn't me, but I wouldn't mind being him."
*cries* Very much recommended to all of Michael Bond's fans and to anyone who wants to know about the background of Paddington Bear. Now if you''ll excuse me, I will go watch many episodes of Paddington bear while eating an orange marmalade sandwich!
Favorite Quote:
"Unless an author believes in his character," Michael said, "no one else is going to. Paddington isn't me, but I wouldn't mind being him."
*cries* Very much recommended to all of Michael Bond's fans and to anyone who wants to know about the background of Paddington Bear. Now if you''ll excuse me, I will go watch many episodes of Paddington bear while eating an orange marmalade sandwich!
April 30, 2020
More than Marmalade is such a PRECIOUS book. It’s rare that I read a book in one sitting nowadays (due to lack of time!) but I managed to get some free time earlier today and decided to start this biography — and what a perfect read it was!
I learned so much about Michael Bond, the author of Paddington Bear. I appreciated the insight about his early life, how he grew up and the things that came to inspire him later on to create the beloved Paddington Bear. His childhood home was warm and he was lucky to have “aunties” that were happy to look after him. He was a reader and grew up surrounded by books.
But while his early childhood was a happy one, Michael Bond also got to witness the chaos of World War II. Refugees, mostly children, came from other countries and Michael’s family even welcomed two into their home. Seeing people lose loved ones or being forced to live with strangers left a strong impression, which is something that is later on reflected in his works, most importantly, in Paddington Bear, who is also an immigrant looking for someone to take him home.
Oh but Michael Bond’s publication journey is such a long one and it’s both inspiring and relatable to so many writers. To quote Michael Bond’s grandfather: “You can do anything with your life but you must stick with it. Never give up. Keep going, and one day you’ll find yourself doing exactly what you want.”
And that’s how Paddington Bear came to be. Drawn part from life & from a lonely bear sitting in a toy shop on Christmas day. Michael Bond created a wonderful character that is very much alive to this date.
I am feeling pretty nostalgic now and all I want to do is to watch Paddington Bear episodes & eat some toast with orange marmalade!
Rosanne Tolin wrote a beautiful biography about the story behind Paddington Bear and it’s a great read for Middle Grades & Adults alike.
***Thanks to the author & MTMC Tours for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.***
I learned so much about Michael Bond, the author of Paddington Bear. I appreciated the insight about his early life, how he grew up and the things that came to inspire him later on to create the beloved Paddington Bear. His childhood home was warm and he was lucky to have “aunties” that were happy to look after him. He was a reader and grew up surrounded by books.
But while his early childhood was a happy one, Michael Bond also got to witness the chaos of World War II. Refugees, mostly children, came from other countries and Michael’s family even welcomed two into their home. Seeing people lose loved ones or being forced to live with strangers left a strong impression, which is something that is later on reflected in his works, most importantly, in Paddington Bear, who is also an immigrant looking for someone to take him home.
Oh but Michael Bond’s publication journey is such a long one and it’s both inspiring and relatable to so many writers. To quote Michael Bond’s grandfather: “You can do anything with your life but you must stick with it. Never give up. Keep going, and one day you’ll find yourself doing exactly what you want.”
And that’s how Paddington Bear came to be. Drawn part from life & from a lonely bear sitting in a toy shop on Christmas day. Michael Bond created a wonderful character that is very much alive to this date.
I am feeling pretty nostalgic now and all I want to do is to watch Paddington Bear episodes & eat some toast with orange marmalade!
Rosanne Tolin wrote a beautiful biography about the story behind Paddington Bear and it’s a great read for Middle Grades & Adults alike.
***Thanks to the author & MTMC Tours for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.***
September 27, 2022
The passing of Queen Elizabeth has given me a desire for English children's literature. After her connection with Paddington Bear in the final months of her life, I found this inquisitive look at Michael Bond's creative process and put it on hold at my library.
Rosanne Tolin has written a charming middle grade biography of Mr. Bond that mimics his rosy Paddington style. Concrete, simple but deep, compassionate and gentle, the text informs the reader of various influences upon Mr. Bond's creative composition of the well-loved Peruvian bear becoming Englishman, specifically: the impact of WWII refugees (both domestic and international), a multicultural neighborhood, and work at the BBC as a camera operator.
The touch of surrealism as Mr. Bond and some family members treat Paddington Bear as living, sometimes visible, friend, may wrap young readers in whimsy, although, it may cause adults to question Mr. Bond's mental stability. The account of Mr. Bond and beloved Paddington begins to take on cultic religious fervor as Mr. Bond's life encounters challenges in personal and professional relationships from which he cannot feverishly work away. While Mr. Bond's diligence is admirable, his production prodigious, there is a sense in which constant escapism to the world of Paddington through writing has become his sanity. However, when presented in film or even in Mr. Bond's Paddington books, human interaction with the vivacious Paddington is lovely and untainted by real life concerns.
You can get a feel for these fanciful events in this published excerpt....
https://www.myiu.org/stories/arts-cul...
More than Marmelade was published in 2020. I did not realize that Mr. Bond passed away in 2017! I thought I remembered reference to a cameo appearance in the movie, but incorrectly thought it was computer generated. Not so. Ms. Tolin set it straight. My entire family, young and old, adored both movies, making Mr. Bond's approval of them an added pleasure. I hope there will be more. The set of the first 8 (of over 150?!?) Paddington Books remain a family library treasure. Though I (and a voracious reader family member both) enjoyed More than Marmalade, I was content to read and return to the library.
For the stories themselves, start here...
A Bear Called Paddington (Paddington Book #1), Michael Bond, 1958
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For a look at the backstory of the other famous English bear, see:
Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear, Lindsay Mattick, 2015
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rosanne Tolin has written a charming middle grade biography of Mr. Bond that mimics his rosy Paddington style. Concrete, simple but deep, compassionate and gentle, the text informs the reader of various influences upon Mr. Bond's creative composition of the well-loved Peruvian bear becoming Englishman, specifically: the impact of WWII refugees (both domestic and international), a multicultural neighborhood, and work at the BBC as a camera operator.
The touch of surrealism as Mr. Bond and some family members treat Paddington Bear as living, sometimes visible, friend, may wrap young readers in whimsy, although, it may cause adults to question Mr. Bond's mental stability. The account of Mr. Bond and beloved Paddington begins to take on cultic religious fervor as Mr. Bond's life encounters challenges in personal and professional relationships from which he cannot feverishly work away. While Mr. Bond's diligence is admirable, his production prodigious, there is a sense in which constant escapism to the world of Paddington through writing has become his sanity. However, when presented in film or even in Mr. Bond's Paddington books, human interaction with the vivacious Paddington is lovely and untainted by real life concerns.
You can get a feel for these fanciful events in this published excerpt....
https://www.myiu.org/stories/arts-cul...
More than Marmelade was published in 2020. I did not realize that Mr. Bond passed away in 2017! I thought I remembered reference to a cameo appearance in the movie, but incorrectly thought it was computer generated. Not so. Ms. Tolin set it straight. My entire family, young and old, adored both movies, making Mr. Bond's approval of them an added pleasure. I hope there will be more. The set of the first 8 (of over 150?!?) Paddington Books remain a family library treasure. Though I (and a voracious reader family member both) enjoyed More than Marmalade, I was content to read and return to the library.
For the stories themselves, start here...
A Bear Called Paddington (Paddington Book #1), Michael Bond, 1958
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For a look at the backstory of the other famous English bear, see:
Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear, Lindsay Mattick, 2015
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 2, 2020
4.5 STARS
I read this book for an author request, so thank you so much to the author for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I have always really liked Paddington, and although I was more on the Winnie-the-Pooh team growing up (and still am but don't tell anyone haha), I have some very fond memories of Paddington Bear stories. I loved the movies that came out a few years ago, they were so lovely and had me in tears multiple times, so I knew this was a must-read for me!
Paddington Bear is just such a lovely little bear and this middle grade nonfiction biography about Michael Bond (the man behind the bear), his upbringing and life, and how he came to create little Paddington, and what this bear came to mean to Michael and the world was just such a great thing to read.
It's not a very long book, but I took my time reading it, and I can honestly say that it's a book for everyone, no matter your age, what you like, if you even know who Michael Bond is, or if you're read Paddington Bear stories/ seen the films, then this is a must-read. Because it's a middle grade book, it's short and has some really fun anecdotes and stories, but it's also very insightful, full of some wonderful things to learn, some very important messages, and is even quite an emotional read (I was tearing up a bit at the end there).
Overall, I adored this book and I'm so glad I got a chance to read it. It had some lovely moments, the writing style was fluid and I just loved my time reading it. I gave it 4.5 stars and I highly recommend to anyone and everyone, as long as you grab yourself your stuffed friend and a marmalade sandwich before sitting down to read it! :)
I read this book for an author request, so thank you so much to the author for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I have always really liked Paddington, and although I was more on the Winnie-the-Pooh team growing up (and still am but don't tell anyone haha), I have some very fond memories of Paddington Bear stories. I loved the movies that came out a few years ago, they were so lovely and had me in tears multiple times, so I knew this was a must-read for me!
Paddington Bear is just such a lovely little bear and this middle grade nonfiction biography about Michael Bond (the man behind the bear), his upbringing and life, and how he came to create little Paddington, and what this bear came to mean to Michael and the world was just such a great thing to read.
It's not a very long book, but I took my time reading it, and I can honestly say that it's a book for everyone, no matter your age, what you like, if you even know who Michael Bond is, or if you're read Paddington Bear stories/ seen the films, then this is a must-read. Because it's a middle grade book, it's short and has some really fun anecdotes and stories, but it's also very insightful, full of some wonderful things to learn, some very important messages, and is even quite an emotional read (I was tearing up a bit at the end there).
Overall, I adored this book and I'm so glad I got a chance to read it. It had some lovely moments, the writing style was fluid and I just loved my time reading it. I gave it 4.5 stars and I highly recommend to anyone and everyone, as long as you grab yourself your stuffed friend and a marmalade sandwich before sitting down to read it! :)
March 13, 2022
I learned a lot from this children’s book. Paddington books were my son’s favorites as a kid, and I thought it would be fun to learn more about the author. Wow. Michael was a teen during WW2. Seeing children with tags tied to their coats at the railroad station as a youth made an impact on him, and when he began writing Paddington stories, that found its way into the immigrant bear’s story. Speaking of which, Michael was very pro-immigrant, even writing a letter to the newspaper “from Paddington” in support of them.
November 9, 2020
This was a cute read! I loved learning about one of my favorite characters!
May 23, 2022
A perfect biography for any Paddington loving family. Knowing more about Mr. Bond made so many of the details from his beloved books even sweeter. I cannot wait for my kids to read it so we can all look at our favorite bear with new appreciation.
May 28, 2020
I never read the PAddington bear stories but now I want to. Michael Bond had a wonderful imagination and a curiosity that continually gave him ideas for more bear adventures.
Until I read this I never knew the connection between the kindertransport and paddington bear.
Until I read this I never knew the connection between the kindertransport and paddington bear.
May 18, 2020
More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear, could just as well be subtitled, Paddington Bear and the Story of Michael Bond. In this beautifully-told true story, author Rosanne Tolin shows us that while Michael Bond brought Paddington to life, Paddington offered Bond the dual gift of friendship and inspiration.
Although primarily intended for middle grade readers, More Than Marmalade will appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds, due to the book’s significant themes of the need for a sense of belonging, the persistence required to fulfill one’s dreams, and the way that art can truly come to life for its creator and for those who experience it.
Throughout the first half of the book, Tolin patiently reveals young Michael’s sensitive, fun-loving nature and portrays experiences from his youth in 1930s England that impacted him. Tolin also emphasizes Bond’s experience growing up in a house full of books, with parents that loved reading with him; his father’s playful nature, and his grandfather’s encouraging words, “You can do anything with your life . . . But you must stick with it. Never give up.” As an adolescent, Michael was deeply affected by the solemn faces of the German-Jewish children (who’d arrived by way of the Kindertransport) who he saw wandering alone in and around Reading Station. The children carried single knapsacks or small suitcases, and they wore identification tags around their necks. These tags were the inspiration for the tag that Paddington wears, which reads, “Please look after this bear.” Another of Bond’s experiences that inspired an aspect of Paddington’s life story—was that of sharing his home with two Kindertransport brothers—and the helplessness he felt in the face of the boys’ palpable grief.
Just before Michael left home for Egypt to serve as part of the Middlesex Regiment, a friend gave him a miniature stuffed bear, which he would keep with him at all times while in Cairo. It was during this time that Bond began writing stories. He sold his first story while in Egypt; however, many years passed before he sold another. Reflecting on those years, he once said, “I could have pasted my apartment with rejection slips.”
Not long after he spotted the lonesome stuffed bear on a barren shelf at Selfridge’s Department store one snowy Christmas Eve, Michael, his wife, Brenda, and his daughter, Karen, all fell in love with Paddington. One day when Michael was suffering from writer’s block, he reached out to his agent, Harvey, for help. Harvey asked him to describe the room in which he was sitting. After looking around for a moment, Michael focused on Paddington. Soon his bestselling, A Bear Called Paddington, was born.
Although Paddington is known for his adventurous spirit and his good cheer, neither Paddington nor Michael was a stranger to sorrow. In perhaps my favorite lines of the book, Michael says to his newfound friend, “I have known my share of grief. . . . Whatever sorrow you have felt, please share it with me. Sharing it might make you feel a bit better.”
In keeping with the book’s themes of the power of imagination and how characters and stories reflect real life, Tolin has said, “It wasn’t that Bond imagined Paddington was real, he really was real to Michael.” And in turn—appearing in 150 stories in 40 languages—Paddington has become real to generations of readers across the globe.
Although primarily intended for middle grade readers, More Than Marmalade will appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds, due to the book’s significant themes of the need for a sense of belonging, the persistence required to fulfill one’s dreams, and the way that art can truly come to life for its creator and for those who experience it.
Throughout the first half of the book, Tolin patiently reveals young Michael’s sensitive, fun-loving nature and portrays experiences from his youth in 1930s England that impacted him. Tolin also emphasizes Bond’s experience growing up in a house full of books, with parents that loved reading with him; his father’s playful nature, and his grandfather’s encouraging words, “You can do anything with your life . . . But you must stick with it. Never give up.” As an adolescent, Michael was deeply affected by the solemn faces of the German-Jewish children (who’d arrived by way of the Kindertransport) who he saw wandering alone in and around Reading Station. The children carried single knapsacks or small suitcases, and they wore identification tags around their necks. These tags were the inspiration for the tag that Paddington wears, which reads, “Please look after this bear.” Another of Bond’s experiences that inspired an aspect of Paddington’s life story—was that of sharing his home with two Kindertransport brothers—and the helplessness he felt in the face of the boys’ palpable grief.
Just before Michael left home for Egypt to serve as part of the Middlesex Regiment, a friend gave him a miniature stuffed bear, which he would keep with him at all times while in Cairo. It was during this time that Bond began writing stories. He sold his first story while in Egypt; however, many years passed before he sold another. Reflecting on those years, he once said, “I could have pasted my apartment with rejection slips.”
Not long after he spotted the lonesome stuffed bear on a barren shelf at Selfridge’s Department store one snowy Christmas Eve, Michael, his wife, Brenda, and his daughter, Karen, all fell in love with Paddington. One day when Michael was suffering from writer’s block, he reached out to his agent, Harvey, for help. Harvey asked him to describe the room in which he was sitting. After looking around for a moment, Michael focused on Paddington. Soon his bestselling, A Bear Called Paddington, was born.
Although Paddington is known for his adventurous spirit and his good cheer, neither Paddington nor Michael was a stranger to sorrow. In perhaps my favorite lines of the book, Michael says to his newfound friend, “I have known my share of grief. . . . Whatever sorrow you have felt, please share it with me. Sharing it might make you feel a bit better.”
In keeping with the book’s themes of the power of imagination and how characters and stories reflect real life, Tolin has said, “It wasn’t that Bond imagined Paddington was real, he really was real to Michael.” And in turn—appearing in 150 stories in 40 languages—Paddington has become real to generations of readers across the globe.
May 7, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear
Author: Rosanne Tolin
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: March 3, 2020
Genre: Children’s Biography
Recommended Age: 8+ (cute, adorable, does talk about WW2 a little)
Publisher: Chicago Review Press
Pages: 176
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Michael Bond never intended to be a children’s writer. Though an avid reader, he was by no means a model student and quit school at 14. He repaired rooftop radio transmitters during the bombing of Britain in World War II and later joined the army. He wrote about the war and more, selling stories here and there.
One day, while searching for inspiration at his typewriter, hoping for a big story that would allow him to write full time, a stuffed bear on top of the shelf—a Christmas present for his wife—suddenly caught his eye. Bond poured his personal feelings about the events of his era—the refugee children his family had hosted in the countryside, a war-torn country in recovery, the bustling immigrant neighborhood where he lived—into the story of a little bear from Peru who tries very, very hard to do things right. The result was A Bear Called Paddington.
An incredible true tale, More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear is the first biography about the writer behind the beloved series. Author Rosanne Tolin reveals how world history, Bond’s life, and 1950s immigrant culture were embedded into Paddington’s creation, bringing middle-grade readers a delightful, informative, and engaging book with a timely message of acceptance.
Review: This was such a cute book! I really loved this middle grade level biography about how Paddington came to be. While I was more of a Winnie the Pooh fan as a child, I did know Paddington and he was precious to me. The writing was really well done, it’s very informative but simplistic for young readers. The book is inspirational for young children.
The only issue I had with the book is that I didn’t want it to end. I thought it was a bit too short and could have been expanded on the details, but then again this is for young kids so for them the length is perfect!
Verdict: An exceptional book!
Book: More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear
Author: Rosanne Tolin
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: March 3, 2020
Genre: Children’s Biography
Recommended Age: 8+ (cute, adorable, does talk about WW2 a little)
Publisher: Chicago Review Press
Pages: 176
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Michael Bond never intended to be a children’s writer. Though an avid reader, he was by no means a model student and quit school at 14. He repaired rooftop radio transmitters during the bombing of Britain in World War II and later joined the army. He wrote about the war and more, selling stories here and there.
One day, while searching for inspiration at his typewriter, hoping for a big story that would allow him to write full time, a stuffed bear on top of the shelf—a Christmas present for his wife—suddenly caught his eye. Bond poured his personal feelings about the events of his era—the refugee children his family had hosted in the countryside, a war-torn country in recovery, the bustling immigrant neighborhood where he lived—into the story of a little bear from Peru who tries very, very hard to do things right. The result was A Bear Called Paddington.
An incredible true tale, More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear is the first biography about the writer behind the beloved series. Author Rosanne Tolin reveals how world history, Bond’s life, and 1950s immigrant culture were embedded into Paddington’s creation, bringing middle-grade readers a delightful, informative, and engaging book with a timely message of acceptance.
Review: This was such a cute book! I really loved this middle grade level biography about how Paddington came to be. While I was more of a Winnie the Pooh fan as a child, I did know Paddington and he was precious to me. The writing was really well done, it’s very informative but simplistic for young readers. The book is inspirational for young children.
The only issue I had with the book is that I didn’t want it to end. I thought it was a bit too short and could have been expanded on the details, but then again this is for young kids so for them the length is perfect!
Verdict: An exceptional book!
March 7, 2020
Interest Level: 3-6
If you have ever dreamed of becoming an author, where would your inspiration come from? Michael Bond didn't grow up thinking he would become a writer but little did he know that he would become one of the most well-known authors ever. Growing up Michael was not the greatest in school but he grew up in a loving home where his parents read to him every night. He quit school at the age of 14 and began working odd jobs during World War II. He joined the army and during this time he wrote stories but was rejected many, many times by publishing companies. One day he was sitting at his typewriter trying come up with a story when he began looking at the teddy bear that he purchased for his wife. He started writing and within a little over a week he had created a story of Paddington Bear, but would he continue to get rejection letters or would this finally be his big chance? Read this incredible book to find out!
Let me just begin by saying that I am not a big nonfiction or biography fan but this book might just change my mind! From the first page, Rosanne pulled me into the life of Michael Bond and I couldn't stop reading. It was so interesting finding out the background of one of the most iconic book series ever written. If you are a Paddington fan or not, you will love this story!!
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If you have ever dreamed of becoming an author, where would your inspiration come from? Michael Bond didn't grow up thinking he would become a writer but little did he know that he would become one of the most well-known authors ever. Growing up Michael was not the greatest in school but he grew up in a loving home where his parents read to him every night. He quit school at the age of 14 and began working odd jobs during World War II. He joined the army and during this time he wrote stories but was rejected many, many times by publishing companies. One day he was sitting at his typewriter trying come up with a story when he began looking at the teddy bear that he purchased for his wife. He started writing and within a little over a week he had created a story of Paddington Bear, but would he continue to get rejection letters or would this finally be his big chance? Read this incredible book to find out!
Let me just begin by saying that I am not a big nonfiction or biography fan but this book might just change my mind! From the first page, Rosanne pulled me into the life of Michael Bond and I couldn't stop reading. It was so interesting finding out the background of one of the most iconic book series ever written. If you are a Paddington fan or not, you will love this story!!
Follow me:
Blog - Blazer Tales - https://blazertales.com/
Facebook - Laurie’s Library Place - https://www.facebook.com/LauriesLibra...
Instagram - laurieslibrary - https://www.instagram.com/laurieslibr...
Twitter - @laurieevans27 https://twitter.com/laurieevans27?lan...
Goodreads - Laurie Purser - https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/auburngirl2...
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCulD...
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-ev...
November 20, 2020
I liked the maturing chapters, from childhood through to the inspiration to Paddington. The author does a great job drawing lines from Bond's sympathy for refugees, both kids moved away from the Blitz to his hometown of Reading and the Kindertransport kids he met (his parents fostered two of them for a while) to his backstory for the famous bear. I was intrigued by the family love of reading which made more of a difference than Bond's distaste for school, especially the Catholic high school his mom found for him that he ditched at age 14 to start work.
Young Bond mentioned that his new school sounded even duller than public school. I'm confused because thought that meant something different in England -- was Tolin translating and Bond meant state school, or was the family considering a public school???
I didn't like the loose timelines. How long were the Kindertransport children with his family? How long did it take for Bond to get famous from Paddington? After a narrative year his daughter was seven years old, although she had been in utero at the start of the chapter. After returning from the war, Bond got a promotion to camera man after eight years of work, at the young age of 22. OK, obviously they are back counting to his start just after school, but what about the war years? Huh? And Bond apparently was a workaholic who neglected his family, but the author's sympathy for him is a bit overdone. Was it really more important to answer his fan mail than to eat dinner with his daughter? Paddington is not as big in America as he is in England so maybe the response there is different, but the book seems to be written for Americans.
I have to say I'm really enjoying all the book overlaps. Kindertransport and Blue Peter were both featured in books I read earlier this month.
Young Bond mentioned that his new school sounded even duller than public school. I'm confused because thought that meant something different in England -- was Tolin translating and Bond meant state school, or was the family considering a public school???
I didn't like the loose timelines. How long were the Kindertransport children with his family? How long did it take for Bond to get famous from Paddington? After a narrative year his daughter was seven years old, although she had been in utero at the start of the chapter. After returning from the war, Bond got a promotion to camera man after eight years of work, at the young age of 22. OK, obviously they are back counting to his start just after school, but what about the war years? Huh? And Bond apparently was a workaholic who neglected his family, but the author's sympathy for him is a bit overdone. Was it really more important to answer his fan mail than to eat dinner with his daughter? Paddington is not as big in America as he is in England so maybe the response there is different, but the book seems to be written for Americans.
I have to say I'm really enjoying all the book overlaps. Kindertransport and Blue Peter were both featured in books I read earlier this month.
May 29, 2020
A biography of Michael Bond aimed at middle grade readers.
It was a real pleasure to read More Than Marmalade. I’ve loved Paddington stories for over half a century and Rosanne Tolin pays a fond, entertaining and interesting tribute to the man who created the bear – Michael Bond.
Although some of the vocabulary is American in style (such as elevator and sidewalk) it is totally accessible to children on both sides of the Atlantic, affording an opportunity for independent reading as well as sharing with adults. Indeed, adults will enjoy this book just as much as children because it brings back memories and transports them to their initial pleasure of discovering Paddington Bear. I liked the short chapters as I feel a child could easily read one on their own. The tone is light but still manages to impart weighty themes and issues including the treatment of Jews and the effects of the second world war in society, so that reading More Than Marmalade is a treasure trove of factual detail and narrative colour. I liked the added photographs too because they give authenticity to the text.
There’s a super sense of who Michael Bond was and what kind of man he became from that book and train obsessed child. As a lifelong Paddington fan, I didn’t discover new facts but I was reminded of details I had forgotten so that I derived great pleasure from reading More Than Marmalade.
More Than Marmalade is more than a book about Michael Bond. It’s part history, part geography, part comedy and part tragedy as well as a fond and well researched insight into the man behind the bear. I found it very entertaining and really enjoyed it and I think any other Paddington fan of any age would too.
It was a real pleasure to read More Than Marmalade. I’ve loved Paddington stories for over half a century and Rosanne Tolin pays a fond, entertaining and interesting tribute to the man who created the bear – Michael Bond.
Although some of the vocabulary is American in style (such as elevator and sidewalk) it is totally accessible to children on both sides of the Atlantic, affording an opportunity for independent reading as well as sharing with adults. Indeed, adults will enjoy this book just as much as children because it brings back memories and transports them to their initial pleasure of discovering Paddington Bear. I liked the short chapters as I feel a child could easily read one on their own. The tone is light but still manages to impart weighty themes and issues including the treatment of Jews and the effects of the second world war in society, so that reading More Than Marmalade is a treasure trove of factual detail and narrative colour. I liked the added photographs too because they give authenticity to the text.
There’s a super sense of who Michael Bond was and what kind of man he became from that book and train obsessed child. As a lifelong Paddington fan, I didn’t discover new facts but I was reminded of details I had forgotten so that I derived great pleasure from reading More Than Marmalade.
More Than Marmalade is more than a book about Michael Bond. It’s part history, part geography, part comedy and part tragedy as well as a fond and well researched insight into the man behind the bear. I found it very entertaining and really enjoyed it and I think any other Paddington fan of any age would too.
July 19, 2020
I am lucky to have won a copy of this wonderful book about Michael Bond, so far his only biography. It is as delicious as the orange marmalade Paddington Bear loves so much! Rosanne Tolin takes the cue from Bond's childhood when he saw immigrant children come into his country, escaping war, with their names hanging on a sign, just like what would happen to his famous bear. Bond's family, too, took in two of those children. Bond held a number of different jobs in his adulthood, including working for the BBC repairing radio transmitters during World War II. And he did want to be a writer, even had an agent, but he did not intend to become a children's writer at all.
The inspiration for this first story comes from a favorite bear sitting on a shelf that he gave his wife for Christmas. It was the only one left on a shelf in a department store, definitely needing a home. As he, desperate, sought a new idea of what to write, he looked at Paddington (he and his wife had already named him), remembered those children of his childhood, and began to imagine this bear who needed a home. After the astounding success of this first book, calls came for more Paddington stories. Tolin shows Bond's own life experiences which influenced the books, including his work, where he lived, his ways of kindness.
In her author's note, Rosanne Tolin shares that she has used Bond's own words but adapted them for this middle-grade biography, "taken from verifiable sources". For those who love Paddington Bear, and I only discovered him as an adult, this is a wonderful tale of Michael Bond's life and the way he lived with his beloved bear.
The inspiration for this first story comes from a favorite bear sitting on a shelf that he gave his wife for Christmas. It was the only one left on a shelf in a department store, definitely needing a home. As he, desperate, sought a new idea of what to write, he looked at Paddington (he and his wife had already named him), remembered those children of his childhood, and began to imagine this bear who needed a home. After the astounding success of this first book, calls came for more Paddington stories. Tolin shows Bond's own life experiences which influenced the books, including his work, where he lived, his ways of kindness.
In her author's note, Rosanne Tolin shares that she has used Bond's own words but adapted them for this middle-grade biography, "taken from verifiable sources". For those who love Paddington Bear, and I only discovered him as an adult, this is a wonderful tale of Michael Bond's life and the way he lived with his beloved bear.
May 4, 2020
Review copy was provided by the provider for being a part of the blog tour hosted by MTMC Tours.
5 THINGS THAT I LOVE ABOUT THE BOOK:
1. This book had an impact on me. For instance (out of many instances), I’ve told myself before that I might not want to become a mother. But while reading about how Michael and his parents bond through books, it made me think that maybe, deep deep deep inside of me, I might wanna have one in the future. Someone I can read books to. Someone I can go to the library or bookstore with. Someone to discipline using motivating words from books.
2. The research and description given about WWII was so vivid and unlike any other history narratives, this one’s not boring at all!
3. The narrative about Michael’s life was also shown in a really interesting way. It didn’t feel like I was reading a biography. This is really perfect to read if you wanna widen your genre but is kinda afraid that a biography might bore you. This didn’t bore me at all. I even read this in one sitting. I flew through this book.
4. I love how the author's writing style. She made sure that she's keeping the readers interested by showing, instead of telling, us more events in Michael’s life. I think Rosanne knows when the story will get boring so she adds a little fun to keep the readers hooked!
5. This book is not just about Michael Bond and how Paddington was created. It’s also about being young and having dreams and on how you can make your dreams come true!
5 THINGS THAT I LOVE ABOUT THE BOOK:
1. This book had an impact on me. For instance (out of many instances), I’ve told myself before that I might not want to become a mother. But while reading about how Michael and his parents bond through books, it made me think that maybe, deep deep deep inside of me, I might wanna have one in the future. Someone I can read books to. Someone I can go to the library or bookstore with. Someone to discipline using motivating words from books.
2. The research and description given about WWII was so vivid and unlike any other history narratives, this one’s not boring at all!
3. The narrative about Michael’s life was also shown in a really interesting way. It didn’t feel like I was reading a biography. This is really perfect to read if you wanna widen your genre but is kinda afraid that a biography might bore you. This didn’t bore me at all. I even read this in one sitting. I flew through this book.
4. I love how the author's writing style. She made sure that she's keeping the readers interested by showing, instead of telling, us more events in Michael’s life. I think Rosanne knows when the story will get boring so she adds a little fun to keep the readers hooked!
5. This book is not just about Michael Bond and how Paddington was created. It’s also about being young and having dreams and on how you can make your dreams come true!
April 25, 2022
Paddington Bear is one of the literary loves of my life. The moment I first laid eyes on his little blue coat and oversized hat, and read his first adventure as a child, I was entranced. Yes; I would look after this bear.
Unfortunately it can be difficult to find any books on Michael Bond and the history of Paddington Bear. So I’ll take what I can can get. Even if it’s a biography aimed at children.
The tidbits in this book (namely the inspiration behind Paddington) are great. However, the author relies too much on speculative and over dramatized conversations between Bond and others. I know it’s a book aimed at children. But they’re smarter than overly syrupy conversations (and talking points) punctuated with dramatic exclamation marks. Maybe it’s the Roald Dahl reader in me. Who knows.
I also took issue with the timeline and plot holes/gaps in the story. Huge chunks of time were glossed over. Details such as what happened to the kids his parents took in during WWII? What happened during the early time between the first publication of Paddington and when Bond finally hit it big enough to write full time? His marriage to his second wife; what happened there?
Anyways, I recommend it for the pieces of information you’ll learn. But don’t expect too much detail.
Unfortunately it can be difficult to find any books on Michael Bond and the history of Paddington Bear. So I’ll take what I can can get. Even if it’s a biography aimed at children.
The tidbits in this book (namely the inspiration behind Paddington) are great. However, the author relies too much on speculative and over dramatized conversations between Bond and others. I know it’s a book aimed at children. But they’re smarter than overly syrupy conversations (and talking points) punctuated with dramatic exclamation marks. Maybe it’s the Roald Dahl reader in me. Who knows.
I also took issue with the timeline and plot holes/gaps in the story. Huge chunks of time were glossed over. Details such as what happened to the kids his parents took in during WWII? What happened during the early time between the first publication of Paddington and when Bond finally hit it big enough to write full time? His marriage to his second wife; what happened there?
Anyways, I recommend it for the pieces of information you’ll learn. But don’t expect too much detail.
May 12, 2020
Such a tiny book but packed with big emotions. I think I cried twice in the 119 pages read.
This is a book about Michael Bond, the lovely well mannered gentleman responsible for the creation of the beloved Paddington Bear series. It starts off when Michael is very young, growing up in Reading with his amazing parents. Both avid readers, they instilled the love of books and reading in their son from an early age.
This book was so charmingly written. It flowed well and gave the reader a very strong sense of who Michael was as a person. His experiences as a child helped shape his Paddington character. The refugee children during WW2 inspired Paddington's London arrival.
I not only learned about Michael Bond's life, but also learned so much about Paddington and hia creation. The fact that there was an actual stuffed bear in Bond's home wirh whom he conversed and shared his dinner table with, is one of my favourite things about this man.
If you grew up with and love Paddington then this book is just such a bonus into hia birth. I really recommend it.
I would like to thank the author and MTMC tours for providing me with a copy of this book to review.
This is a book about Michael Bond, the lovely well mannered gentleman responsible for the creation of the beloved Paddington Bear series. It starts off when Michael is very young, growing up in Reading with his amazing parents. Both avid readers, they instilled the love of books and reading in their son from an early age.
This book was so charmingly written. It flowed well and gave the reader a very strong sense of who Michael was as a person. His experiences as a child helped shape his Paddington character. The refugee children during WW2 inspired Paddington's London arrival.
I not only learned about Michael Bond's life, but also learned so much about Paddington and hia creation. The fact that there was an actual stuffed bear in Bond's home wirh whom he conversed and shared his dinner table with, is one of my favourite things about this man.
If you grew up with and love Paddington then this book is just such a bonus into hia birth. I really recommend it.
I would like to thank the author and MTMC tours for providing me with a copy of this book to review.
May 14, 2020
Thank you to @mtmctours and @chireviewpress for the #gifted copy!
I've been a huge fan of both Paddington Bear and his signature Orange Marmalade since my childhood. So, when I learned about this book, I knew I wanted to read it and share it with my own kids.
This Middle Grade biography goes behind-the-scenes of Michael Bond's life showing us how Paddington Bear came to be and how it forever changed Michael's life. I discovered so many fascinating facts including the intended support of immigration through Paddington's story.
My boys LOVE the Paddington movies that released in the last few years. Reading this biography allowed us to see a new dimension to Paddington's story and purpose. And it was a great excuse for the boys to finally try Paddington's beloved Orange Marmalade.
I highly recommend this book - it would be a great read aloud for kids of multiple ages (I'm thinking mine that range from 8-13). This reminds me of the biographies I use to love reading as a kid in late elementary school.
I've been a huge fan of both Paddington Bear and his signature Orange Marmalade since my childhood. So, when I learned about this book, I knew I wanted to read it and share it with my own kids.
This Middle Grade biography goes behind-the-scenes of Michael Bond's life showing us how Paddington Bear came to be and how it forever changed Michael's life. I discovered so many fascinating facts including the intended support of immigration through Paddington's story.
My boys LOVE the Paddington movies that released in the last few years. Reading this biography allowed us to see a new dimension to Paddington's story and purpose. And it was a great excuse for the boys to finally try Paddington's beloved Orange Marmalade.
I highly recommend this book - it would be a great read aloud for kids of multiple ages (I'm thinking mine that range from 8-13). This reminds me of the biographies I use to love reading as a kid in late elementary school.
June 10, 2020
Through every beloved character shines their creator's spirit. More Than Marmalade is an approachable history lesson about writer, Michael Bond, and his famous bear.
A patchwork of stories and historical tidbits bring Michael's world to life, from early days and memories of World War II in London to early failures and the rising fame of Paddington Bear. The blend of non-fiction and speculative scenes encourage younger readers to engage with the man behind their favorite books.
I would recommend More Than Marmalade to homeschoolers and teachers as an introduction to the World War II time period for their younger kids, especially to children who might enjoy learning a little bit about the origins of Paddington Bear since there plenty of Easter eggs for attentive readers.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions shared about this book are my own.
A patchwork of stories and historical tidbits bring Michael's world to life, from early days and memories of World War II in London to early failures and the rising fame of Paddington Bear. The blend of non-fiction and speculative scenes encourage younger readers to engage with the man behind their favorite books.
I would recommend More Than Marmalade to homeschoolers and teachers as an introduction to the World War II time period for their younger kids, especially to children who might enjoy learning a little bit about the origins of Paddington Bear since there plenty of Easter eggs for attentive readers.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions shared about this book are my own.
May 19, 2020
perfect cozy read during this suffocated time, More than Marmalade fills the mind and the heart of the reader with hope and sunshine. Seeing the world through the eyes of a curious child and watching him and his thoughts modify as he grows up into an adult is an experience altogether. The parts where Bond talks though about world war and bombs and children who lost their homes and family yet still giving a ray of positivity that better future is waiting for us makes me feel the same as we struggle through this global crisis that one day all of these will be over and things will become normal again. In a way, it was reading a biography of the creator of the famous Paddington bear but the events narrated in a storytelling manner made it more engaging. A short book of 140ish pages was over in no time. I am planning to read this book to my nephew when he visits our place.
April 25, 2020
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher to review.
This was such a delightful read! I love author backstories and discovering the inspiration for beloved stories so I was very curious to learn how this beloved bear came to be. Reading this made me love Paddington even more as I discovered the emotion and life experiences that poured into him. I especially love how Paddington is representative of the immigration experience and the search for home.
This a middle grade level biography and appropriate for that reading level. A very quick but enjoyable read for me! I shared pieces of the story with my kids who love Paddington, but aren't old enough to read this biography on their own yet.
This was such a delightful read! I love author backstories and discovering the inspiration for beloved stories so I was very curious to learn how this beloved bear came to be. Reading this made me love Paddington even more as I discovered the emotion and life experiences that poured into him. I especially love how Paddington is representative of the immigration experience and the search for home.
This a middle grade level biography and appropriate for that reading level. A very quick but enjoyable read for me! I shared pieces of the story with my kids who love Paddington, but aren't old enough to read this biography on their own yet.
July 5, 2020
As a Paddington Bear fan (though I'm really only familiar with the first one or two books), I found this biography of Michael Bond a lovely introduction to the man and his times and his inspiration. Rosanne Tolin gives good sense of the formative experiences of Michael Bond's life as well as his creative process. Especially interesting and relevant for today was Michael's empathy for the plight of refugees and immigrants in his creation of Paddington. This is a narrative biography that will keep children engaged.
Book Pairings:
Well, clearly, paired with Michael Bond's books about Paddington bear would make a lot of sense.
For another children's author biography that is interesting and thought-provoking, try The Important Thing About Margaret Wise Brown.
Book Pairings:
Well, clearly, paired with Michael Bond's books about Paddington bear would make a lot of sense.
For another children's author biography that is interesting and thought-provoking, try The Important Thing About Margaret Wise Brown.
March 6, 2025
This is an interesting and ultimately slight middle grade biography about Michael Bond. I think the WWII material is handled well for the intended audience, but unfortunately, big events in Bond's life are barely touched on, and the book feels like it rushes to be over in the latter half. The fictionalized dialogue was really cheesy, as well.
Pictures were few and far between, and I was baffled by some of the ones included. Rather than showcasing the Paddington-themed shop that opened inside of his namesake station in 2016, there's an odd stock photo of a kiosk with a worker bent down in front. Later on, there's an image of a poster for the first film with a caption erroneously stating it's the cover of the DVD release.
Pictures were few and far between, and I was baffled by some of the ones included. Rather than showcasing the Paddington-themed shop that opened inside of his namesake station in 2016, there's an odd stock photo of a kiosk with a worker bent down in front. Later on, there's an image of a poster for the first film with a caption erroneously stating it's the cover of the DVD release.
September 21, 2020
This was a fascinating read for me because I strongly associate Paddington Bear with my own childhood and assume children now just know him from the movie. Imagine my surprise when I learned that the last Paddington book was published just two years ago and that the author Michael Bond was alive when the first movie was made and even had a small part in it.
I was also shock to learn that Paddington’s story was inspired by the child refugees flooding England during World War II. I had never thought of Paddington as a refugee.
I was also shock to learn that Paddington’s story was inspired by the child refugees flooding England during World War II. I had never thought of Paddington as a refugee.
September 29, 2020
A sweet biography of Michael Bond and Paddington Bear. Very much for younger readers to learn about the author and his life.
I appreciated in the Author's Note:
"Though details of Bond's childhood are limited, it was possible to piece them together using his own words. While some of the author's quotes in this book have been adapted to better fit a middle grade biography, they have been taken from verifiable sources. This book is a rare account of his life, with fictionalized scenes based in fact to paint an intimate picture of a modest man."
I appreciated in the Author's Note:
"Though details of Bond's childhood are limited, it was possible to piece them together using his own words. While some of the author's quotes in this book have been adapted to better fit a middle grade biography, they have been taken from verifiable sources. This book is a rare account of his life, with fictionalized scenes based in fact to paint an intimate picture of a modest man."
July 8, 2022
This book explores Michael Bond's life journey, including childhood experiences that helped shape his popular character Paddington Bear. Bond was very touched by the displaced children he saw during WWII, appearing at the railway station with tags tied to their coats. There were times I felt the book was a bit slow (then again, I'm not the intended audience), but overall it was quite charming.
The story is very accessible for ages 9-12, and a good fit for fans of the "Who was . . . ?" series.
The story is very accessible for ages 9-12, and a good fit for fans of the "Who was . . . ?" series.
March 28, 2023
A charming biography of the quirky man who gave us Paddington Bear. I’d never made the connection between Paddington’s voyage and the “please take care of this bear” tag with the children who arrived in England via train during WWII, and learning of Bond’s memories of and heart for the children who had been displaced during the war brought Paddington to life in a new way for me. I’ve always loved the clumsy, marmalade covered bear that I read about as a child and now read to my own children, but the backstory in this sweet biography made those novels even sweeter for me.
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