Reliable, family friendly and a true original, Paddington Bear Books are as sure as a PB & J sandwich to illicit smiles from youngsters. The story is well written, entertaining and filled with many “ahh’s and oohs.” Paddington Bear stories transcend the page…dealing with contemporary issues, yet delivered with that special bump and bungling comical narrative, that fans immediately recognize as the classic Paddington style and new readers will undoubtedly find irresistible. Author Michael Bond infuses the story with Paddington’s trademark sense of humor and naivete and in doing so addresses such serious personal questions as how do you define home? And how does one decide where they belong? And although the Brown’s adopted the homeless bear after discovering him among stacks of mailbags at Paddington Station, he doesn’t have the proper paperwork, therefore, technically, Paddington is an immigrant…or even an illegal immigrant. The foundation for this particular story line was laid many years ago when Paddington’s Aunt Lucy decided to move into the Retirement Home for Bears in Lima and helped the little bear stow-away on a ship bound for England. Later, Paddington is arrested and taken to the police station where he is questioned about his citizenship and exclaims, “I’m not an immigrant.” Thus moving us to the crux of the story…is home still where the heart is? Dealing with grumpy neighbors and the always eager tabloids, Paddington has his little paws full, but this is just the beginning of his misadventures. Paddington had been shopping at Portobello for the Brown family for years and nothing like that had ever happened before.

Confused and in a state of dismay, nearby stall owners offer their support, as well as, a few gruff opinions. The book opens as the eternally optimistic and oh so innocent little Peruvian bear returns to the curb to find his shopping cart has been towed away. Paddington Bear is celebrating his 50th birthday the only way this lovable, adventurous little bear would…with a delicious marmalade sandwich…and his first new book in 30 years, Paddington Here and Now! For those of us who have enjoyed reading the stories of Paddington’s escapades, this book is a welcomed return to good ol’ fashioned literature. Half a century has passed & this little bear is still able to melt your heart & keep you & your little ones interested right up to the end.

Paddington original book