A BEAR CALLED PADDINGTON

A BEAR CALLED PADDINGTON by Michael Bond

Callie loved this book SO MUCH, she wanted to approve my post to make sure I didn't "mess it up!" Here goes!

A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond is one of those "perfect" books for kids. It is the perfect mix of tenderness and humor. Paddington arrives in London from Darkest Peru. His deepest want is to find and belong to a family. After the Brown family finds him at the train station (my boss is telling me I can't say which train station or I will give too much away), they decide they can't leave him there and promptly take him home. What follows is several chapters of pure joy as Paddington gets into funny little mishaps and genuinely shows his love for his family and community. We could all use a Paddington in our lives. If you are so lucky to find one make sure you have plenty of marmalade!

ALONGSIDE ACTIVITY-How about some marmalade? Marmalade is very unique in that it is a jam-like spread made with the entire fruit. In Paddington's case, it would be the entire orange. Sample some and see if it becomes a new favorite for toast, English muffins, etc. Brew up a pot of tea and really feel like an English household.

RECOMMENDATION for MOMMA- I cannot in good conscience step into the world of Marmalade and not mention Jan Karon's Mitford series. If you have never read them, they are fantastic! (Think Adventures in Odyssey for adults!) One of the characters is famous for her marmalade cake which Jan Karon invented for her series. Readers wanted a recipe so badly a chef from Victoria Magazine created the famous dessert. Enjoy the series, and if you are feeling adventurous you can bake up the sweet, tangy delicacy! I will share the recipe!