Paddington and the Christmas Surprise

It’s near Christmas time, and Paddington has saved up enough money to take the Brown family to Santa’s Workshop at Barkridges store. First, they go on a Winter Wonderland sleigh-ride. The rest of the family tries to put on a brave face about things, but Paddington is disappointed. The lollipop garden is cracked and taped all over. The reindeer stable has only one reindeer tipped over in the snow. He does not like the lighthouse light flashing on and off. The family tries to tell him that’s what lighthouses do, but he isn’t listening. When they reach the workshop where the elves make the toys, Judy looks back at Paddington to explain what elves are, but he’s gone. Immediately the family tells the elves that their bear has disappeared. They all begin looking everywhere. Finally they find him trying to “fix” the flashing lighthouse light. They head home, but the rest of the store keeps searching. The Barkridges store had not been doing well, and not a lot of people had been going there. Now, thanks to Paddington, loads of people are coming to search for him. One day, the Brown family goes back to the store, and Paddington is greeted by the manager, who thanks him for coming, since now the lines are winding around the block. Paddington finally gets to meet Santa Claus, and gets his number one Christmas wish, a jar of marmalade.

Paddington is a cute, funny, lovable little bear. His Christmas adventure is exciting and wonderful. The story keeps you guessing and you wonder what’s next. I like the colorful illustrations too. They are scattered everywhere and as you read the words, they help describe the story. It’s good for little kids because there are lots of pictures, but older kids will like it too. There is mystery and excitement, and Christmas spirit.