Today In History: Paddington Bear Makes His Debut

Today In History: Paddington Bear Makes His Debut

Paddington_Bear_Book_Cover

On October 13th, 1958, a little bear from "Darkest" Peru made his debut appearance in the beloved children's book, A Bear Called Paddington, by Michael Bond, a cameraman for BBC whose heart softened for the teddy bear left alone in a shop in the eponymous London train station.  Bond purchased the bear in 1956 as a Christmas gift to his wife, Brenda. Generosity led to writing, with Paddington initially sitting atop his suitcase, a jar of marmalade, and the sign, "Please look after this bear". The Brown family of 32 Windsor Gardens take pity and adopt him into their family, where over the course of time, (mis)adventures ensue. From the Peruvian jungle, where his home was destroyed by fire, to the wilds of the British capitol, flocking with people, Paddington Bear becomes a universally loved and optimistic character.

The iconic, well-mannered bear is also one that symbolizes human kindness and compassion. Thomas Michael Bond (1926-2017) grew up in Reading, England and experienced an extended family; his parents opened their home to many children, including refugees, who were evacuated from London during the Second World War. 

The Paddington Bear series comprises twenty-eight books (a couple published posthumously),  with film and theater, adaptations, as well as art --  the bronze statues of Paddington Bear in Leicester Square and Paddington Station!  Relevant to themes of migration, family, and love, the fictional bear holds a special place for readers of any age, and his story is widely held in homes, schools, and libraries throughout the world.

The following articles are drawn from Proquest Historical Newspapers, which informs and inspires classroom teaching and learning:

Tips:

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Images:

  •  Book Cover, Paddington: The Original Story of the Bear from Peru
  • Classic Paddington Bear, with Wellies

Need to keep current, look to the past, teach a topic? The Everett Cafe features daily postings of news from around the world, and also promotes awareness of historical events from an educational context. Be sure to check additional Cafe News postings on the library blog.


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