Thursday, June 25, 2015

The Real Pooh-Bear


Winnie: The True Story of the Bear Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh by Sally M. Walker is my June selection for "Mimi & Grandpa's Book of the Month." Children love animal stories; and,  my grandchildren are familiar with Winnie-the-Pooh, so I know they'll love this book!

On his way to military training, Harry Colebourn, a veterinarian, purchases an orphaned black bear cub and names  her Winnipeg- "Winnie" for short. Harry feeds Winnie milk and biscuits. Winnie follows Harry as he tends to the horses, and she sleeps under his cot every night. Other soldiers help Harry play with and care for Winnie. And, who wouldn't want to cuddle and play with a black bear cub?


During World War I, Harry and the veterinarian corps travel to England to care for horses used in battle.  Harry takes Winnie along, and she watches the men train. Soon, Harry's company must go to France to help wounded horses. Because the battlefield is too dangerous for Winnie, Harry makes arrangements for her to live at the London Zoo.

Winnie loves her new home, and receives a special visitor, the son of a famous author.


Jonathan D. Voss illustrated the story using watercolors, and pen & ink. The end sheets contain black and white photos of Winnie, Harry, and others.

Winnie: The True Story of the Bear Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh is published by Henry Holt and Company, and appropriate for ages 4- 8. Check it out. It's worth reading!




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