Paddington by Michael Bond

This story of Paddington invites readers in with his charming and kindhearted spirit. This small bear leaves Peru to venture into the modern world of London with nothing, but a red hat, blue coat, and jar of marmalade. Paddington’s journey is playful and comical for young children. He learns how to live like humans by staying with the Brown Family. The Brown’s treated Paddington as their own child. This relationship may emulate the modern blended family dynamic. Students can see that physical differences and cultural backgrounds do not determine acceptance. Paddington’s story depicts true love sacrifice for loved ones.