Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear


Bibliography 
Mattick, Lindsay, 2015. FINDING WINNIE: THE TRUE STORY OF THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS BEAR. Ill. by Sophie Blackall. New York, NY: Little Brown and Company. ISBN 9780316324908.

Plot Summary
In this heartwarming true story, Lindsay Mattick tells the story of a Canadian veterinarian, Captain Harry Coleburn, serving in World War I and how he came across a special bear cub while traveling to an army camp in Canada. Something about this special bear led Coleburn to rescue, raise her at the army camp, and travel with her to England. She was named Winnie and together, they formed an unbreakable friendship. When the war finally began, Coleburn was being stationed over in France. He had to consider Winnie's safety and wellbeing, so he made the tough decision of leaving Winnie at the London Zoo. While this bond was unbreakable, Winnie was loved and formed another strong relationship with a friend by the name of Christopher Robin. His father, A.A. Milne, wrote about this special relationship, inspiring the stories of Winnie the Pooh.

Critical Analysis
Mattick's writing is gentle and loving, telling a special story close to heart. Lindsay Mattick is the great-granddaughter of Captain Harry Coleburn, sharing the special, true story of Winnie the bear. When reading through the story, the reader can feel the pride and love of sharing this amazing family tale. Although this is a true story, it's relatable in the beginning when Cole and his mother are having a bedtime story. Cole interrupts a few times, which has happened to almost every child during any story time. Also, the language of the text is explained well, which encourages the story to be child friendly. Another perk is that readers are learning about true, historical events, while making connections with the special bear who inspired Winnie the Pooh. 

Blackall's illustrations are so detailed, subtle, and bring a softness to the story. The illustrations create a gentle, yet informative tone that support the writing. The perfect bedtime read, just like Cole is listening to the same story before going to sleep. The watercolor art is eye catching and enthralling, as they follow this family story beautifully. Each memory, event, and setting is captured and shared in a way that keeps the reader engaged and feeling as though they are right there in the story. So much time and effort had to have gone into researching Canada's military training camps and capturing Winnie's movements as she grew up. Just to ensure the reader is given the true, accurate story of Winnie's life and travels. 

Review Excerpt(s) 
Randolph Caldecott Medal - 2016
Notable Children's Books - 2016
Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Children everywhere will enjoy this tale for years. A must-have."
Starred review in BOOKLIST: "Little ones who love A.A. Milne's classic stories will be enchanted by this heartening account of the bear's real-life origins."

Connections
- For any bear enthusiasts, this story will be heartwarming and strengthen one's love of bears.
- Any Winnie the Pooh fans will enjoy the story that inspired the special adventures of Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin.
- Any history fanatics will enjoy this true, historical story and will also be treated to a good heartfelt story.
- Similar book recommendations:
Raven, Margo Theis. RAGS, HERO DOG OF WWI. ISBN 9781585362585
Richardson, Justin & Parnell, Peter. CHRISTIAN, THE HUGGING LION. ISBN 9781416986621

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