A Bear Called Paddington
Recommended. Age: 8+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
A little bear from Peru arrives alone at a train station in London. A kind family takes him home and makes him one of their own. Paddington is very polite and always means well, but he keeps making funny messes. There is nothing scary or rude in this book. It is great for the whole family, and kids in second or third grade can read it alone. This is the wholesome rung of the Lumen ladder in book form. A family welcomes a stranger, and a small bear answers with good manners and an honest heart. There is no faith content, so the charity here is natural virtue and worth connecting to the Gospel yourself.
For parents
Read aloud from 5, independent reading from 7 or 8. Common Sense Media says 6 and Memoria Press teaches it in grades 3-4. Ask why the Browns take Paddington home when they know nothing about him, then read Matthew 25:35 together. Welcoming the stranger is a work of mercy (CCC 2447). Ask how Paddington behaves after he makes a mess: he tells the truth and tries to put it right. The book never mentions God. Help your children see where that kindness comes from.