A Bear Called Paddington



Last updated Sunday, May 31, 2015

Author: Michael Bond
Illustrator: Peggy Fortnum
Date of Publication: 2014
ISBN: 0062312189
Grade Level: 3rd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Jun. 2015

Synopsis: Paddington Bear had traveled all the way from Peru when the Browns first met him in Paddington Station. Since then, their lives have never been quite the same . . . for ordinary things become extraordinary when a bear called Paddington is involved. First published in 1958, A Bear Called Paddington is the first novel by Michael Bond, chronicling the adventures of this lovable bear. Paddington has charmed readers for generations with his earnest good intentions and humorous misadventures. This brand-new paper-over-board edition of the classic novel contains the original text by Michael Bond and illustrations by Peggy Fortnum.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Have you seen or heard of the Paddington Bear movie?
•  Have you been to England, where Paddington Bear is from?
•  Do you know how Paddington got his name? (because he was found at Paddington Train Station in London)

Vocabulary

•  voyage- a long journey to a distant or unknown place
•  stowaway- someone who hides on a ship, airplane, etc., in order to travel without paying or being seen
•  triumphant- celebrating victory or success
•  emigrate- to leave one place or country for another
•  marmalade- sweet jelly
•  distinguish- to notice or recognize a difference between people or things

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What kind of bear is Paddington?
•  Where is Peru and how far is that from London, England? (use a map/globe in the room or on your phone to show the distance)
•  Would you be afraid to travel by yourself?
•  Where would you like to travel/visit?

Craft ideas:
•  Make a paper plate Paddington Bear. Directions: http://jdaniel4smom.com/2015/01/paddington-bear-paper-plate-craft.html.
•  Make a Paddington Bear with paper towel roll. Directions:http://www.redtedart.com/2014/12/02/paddington-bear-craft-using-tp-rolls-of-course/.
•  Learn how to draw British landmarks. Link: http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/learn-to-draw-london-landmarks.
•  Make a Father's Day card.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!