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Paddington #15
Paddington's Finest Hour
Paddington – the beloved classic bear from Darkest Peru, now a major movie star – is back in this fantastically funny, brand new illustrated novel from master storyteller Michael Bond!
Hurrying forward, he held out a welcoming hand. “Sir Percival Rushmoor,” he said. “I’m invigilating.”
“I’m sorry to hear that, Sir Percival,” said Paddington. “I hope you feel better very soon.”
Paddington always finds himself in unusual situations so it is no surprise when he has a run-in with the police, appears in a TV cookery show, and gives one of his hard stares to a hypnotist!
128 pages, Hardcover
First published October 3, 2017
About the author
Michael Bond
637 books370 followersMichael Bond, CBE was an English children's author. He was the creator of Paddington Bear and wrote about the adventures of a guinea pig named Olga da Polga, as well as the animated BBC TV series The Herbs. Bond also wrote culinary mystery stories for adults featuring Monsieur Pamplemousse and his faithful bloodhound, Pommes Frites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 15, 2017
I’ve been a huge fan of Paddington Bear ever since I was four years old. I read all of the books I could get my hands on and as time went by, the more I cherished my Paddington books (still own them). When I heard that Harper Collins UK was releasing a brand-new Paddington book (from a friend on Goodreads), I requested it on Netgalley. I wasn’t sure if it was going to be the same as the classic Paddington adventures of my youth but was thrilled to hear that this was written by Michael Bond before his passing.
Paddington and the Browns are back for seven all-new adventures and they include some delightful mishaps such as pouring rain and the post, gardening, a cooking show and more. The chemistry and whimsy are infused in Paddington’s Finest Hour for a whole new generation of readers. I loved it and read it over and over again. Whether you are a child or a grown-up, you’ll fall in love with Paddington all over again. The illustrations are beautiful and reminiscent of the classic illustrations. A must own and read!
Many thanks to Harper Collins UK and Netgalley for giving me an ARC in the hopes I’d review it.
Favorite Character/Quote: Paddington. He’s one of my favourite literary characters and reading this book reminded me of reconnecting with a childhood friend. No matter how much time has gone by, they’re still lovely.
My Rating: 5 stars
This review first appeared: https://princessofthelight.wordpress.com
Paddington and the Browns are back for seven all-new adventures and they include some delightful mishaps such as pouring rain and the post, gardening, a cooking show and more. The chemistry and whimsy are infused in Paddington’s Finest Hour for a whole new generation of readers. I loved it and read it over and over again. Whether you are a child or a grown-up, you’ll fall in love with Paddington all over again. The illustrations are beautiful and reminiscent of the classic illustrations. A must own and read!
Many thanks to Harper Collins UK and Netgalley for giving me an ARC in the hopes I’d review it.
Favorite Character/Quote: Paddington. He’s one of my favourite literary characters and reading this book reminded me of reconnecting with a childhood friend. No matter how much time has gone by, they’re still lovely.
My Rating: 5 stars
This review first appeared: https://princessofthelight.wordpress.com
July 22, 2017
Before his death Michael Bond completed this, his final Paddington bear book, at the age of 91. Paddington's adventures have always been innocent & amusing & this is no exception. While the author's age may affect his writing a little there is plenty of charm in these stories. Besides, you have to love a bear who thinks he's being helpful by licking a plate clean so that it can be used by someone else.
May 18, 2017
Five Marmalade Sandwich Stars
Well it's official, history truly does repeat itself. I started my reading journey as a child with Paddington books (I still have all the paperbacks to prove it) and I've come full circle, through every genre you can think of, back to Paddington. I enjoyed my Paddington experience as much as ever, it would appear my love of this bear and all his misadventures has never died, he is still as affable, naive and lovable as ever, a truly classic experience. A great read with all the usual suspects (I'd forgotten how mean Mr Curry was). A lovely classic to read to your children and grandchildren, or great for the kids to read on their own when they're at that stage. I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review (I saw it and could not resist, not once did I regret my decision).
Well it's official, history truly does repeat itself. I started my reading journey as a child with Paddington books (I still have all the paperbacks to prove it) and I've come full circle, through every genre you can think of, back to Paddington. I enjoyed my Paddington experience as much as ever, it would appear my love of this bear and all his misadventures has never died, he is still as affable, naive and lovable as ever, a truly classic experience. A great read with all the usual suspects (I'd forgotten how mean Mr Curry was). A lovely classic to read to your children and grandchildren, or great for the kids to read on their own when they're at that stage. I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review (I saw it and could not resist, not once did I regret my decision).
November 11, 2020
Paddington is well known around where he lives, including amongst the local police. But when police are around that Paddington doesn't know, he discovers that police have become suspicious about the sight of an innocent bear posting a letter. To say that the police were very unfair to poor Paddington is putting it mildly and retraining is required for those dreadful officers. It is fair to say that in this book, Paddington is discovering just how horrible people can be when his pride and joy rockery in his garden is destroyed just before a garden competition is to be judged. I was outraged in this book about the results of the judging when it was clear that the dreadful Mr Curry had stole Paddington's plants to pass off as his own. Where were the police over this dreadful theft!
Paddington decides to throw a party for a loved one but it is about to be ruined by an unexpected and unwanted guest, as always seems to happen. What I liked best about this book was the next story where Paddington discovers that Mr Curry is about to be in the local newspaper and the bear sees a chance for a bit of payback for what happened with his rockery. Mr Curry is really going to regret getting on the wrong side of the bear this time! I loved that Paddington finally gets one over on that dreadful man who is forever taking advantage of him and causing him trouble! I'm so pleased for the bear!
It finishes with Paddington going to a variety show and becoming a volunteer for a hypnotist. The man has met his match in Paddington who proves to be a difficult subject and his hard stares cause chaos! I loved this story as I'm always amused by Paddington's hard stares as I employ that tactic myself when someone is really getting on my nerves! I was having a good laugh at the book but it is with great sadness that I must now say goodbye to the adventures of Paddington. This was the last book written by the author before his death so there will be no more of the charming bear. I'll have fun re-reading the books in years to come though.
Paddington decides to throw a party for a loved one but it is about to be ruined by an unexpected and unwanted guest, as always seems to happen. What I liked best about this book was the next story where Paddington discovers that Mr Curry is about to be in the local newspaper and the bear sees a chance for a bit of payback for what happened with his rockery. Mr Curry is really going to regret getting on the wrong side of the bear this time! I loved that Paddington finally gets one over on that dreadful man who is forever taking advantage of him and causing him trouble! I'm so pleased for the bear!
It finishes with Paddington going to a variety show and becoming a volunteer for a hypnotist. The man has met his match in Paddington who proves to be a difficult subject and his hard stares cause chaos! I loved this story as I'm always amused by Paddington's hard stares as I employ that tactic myself when someone is really getting on my nerves! I was having a good laugh at the book but it is with great sadness that I must now say goodbye to the adventures of Paddington. This was the last book written by the author before his death so there will be no more of the charming bear. I'll have fun re-reading the books in years to come though.
May 30, 2017
A short, lovely book of stories about Paddington, a clever, well-meaning hellion of a bear.
As far as I understand, Paddington is a cultural icon in the UK, something akin to Winnie The Pooh or Peter Pan, an instantly recognizable character that many people grew up with. But where other famous characters got somewhat lost in time as books about them came and went, Paddington keeps going, many stories and two films in now, this being the latest in his series of adventures.
There are seven chapters in the book, all loosely connected by continuity beats, but each largely stand-alone delightful. The adventures are simple and quaint, including a downpour ruining a car trip to post a letter, a gardening mishap, a birthday party, and a variety show. But this easy charm, achieved by sheer warmth emanating from Paddington and his family, is worth quite a lot, especially as all this optimism seems effortless and real, supported by the fact that Mr. Brown, the father of the family, is still a sarcastic run-of-the-mill dad, balanced out by the ever-joyous bear.
Reading this book brought me back to times when I was a kid and gulped down piles of stories about Winnie, fairy tales, and comic books. It's a throwback to a time when life consisted of sunshine and birdsongs and sure, it's naive, it's escapism at its most basic. But it works, it works one hundred percent. I loved this and I definitely see why Paddington is such an icon and why people love him.
As far as I understand, Paddington is a cultural icon in the UK, something akin to Winnie The Pooh or Peter Pan, an instantly recognizable character that many people grew up with. But where other famous characters got somewhat lost in time as books about them came and went, Paddington keeps going, many stories and two films in now, this being the latest in his series of adventures.
There are seven chapters in the book, all loosely connected by continuity beats, but each largely stand-alone delightful. The adventures are simple and quaint, including a downpour ruining a car trip to post a letter, a gardening mishap, a birthday party, and a variety show. But this easy charm, achieved by sheer warmth emanating from Paddington and his family, is worth quite a lot, especially as all this optimism seems effortless and real, supported by the fact that Mr. Brown, the father of the family, is still a sarcastic run-of-the-mill dad, balanced out by the ever-joyous bear.
Reading this book brought me back to times when I was a kid and gulped down piles of stories about Winnie, fairy tales, and comic books. It's a throwback to a time when life consisted of sunshine and birdsongs and sure, it's naive, it's escapism at its most basic. But it works, it works one hundred percent. I loved this and I definitely see why Paddington is such an icon and why people love him.
February 29, 2020
What's not to love? And if you don't I will give you a paddington hard stare
February 28, 2021
Lacks the charm and mischief of the earlier books.
January 7, 2021
"Time!" said Mr Brown. "The unseen enemy! If you want it to pass quickly, the clock seems to stand still. If you want to prolong the moment, it disappears before you can say the proverbial Jack Robinson."
This is a paragraph from my favourite chapter "Dinner For One, which was freakin' hilarious. Maybe even one of the best Paddington stories yet.
I love the Paddington Series. It is definitely one of my all-time favourites. It is a comfortable read and cheers you up when you are feeling down. Now I have to read How to Be More Paddington: A Book of Kindness and then.. I don't know. Perhaps re-read them all over again.
This is a paragraph from my favourite chapter "Dinner For One, which was freakin' hilarious. Maybe even one of the best Paddington stories yet.
I love the Paddington Series. It is definitely one of my all-time favourites. It is a comfortable read and cheers you up when you are feeling down. Now I have to read How to Be More Paddington: A Book of Kindness and then.. I don't know. Perhaps re-read them all over again.
August 29, 2020
This just didn't have quite the same heart and quaintness that the earlier Paddington books did. In light of recent events, the first chapter was just plain frightening rather than funny. There were wonderful moments where the characters reminisced about the early stories, though, which proved that Bond still loved Paddington as much as he did fifty years earlier.
Read
September 19, 2017I was a great Paddington fan when young - I am afraid this book probably proves you should never go back. To be clear, I have awarded no stars not because I found the book so dreadful but because I did not finish it, in fact I didn't even finish the first story. As soon as I started reading it, it was clear that Michael Bond had tried to update the stories but it was equally clear even from those first few pages that he had not succeeded.
May 29, 2024
The stories did not flow well and there was an overuse of idioms. I love the Paddington series, but this, for me, ranks lowest of the 14 I have read (I haven't read the last book, which is Love from Paddington).
May 18, 2017
Paddington's Finest Hour is both sweet and nostalgic, and made a nice break from more serious reading. Whilst it is enjoyable, it is not my favourite inclusion in the series by any means; I feel that some of the earlier books have a little more substance than this did.
June 27, 2021
Thought that the style was a bit different in this one, which makes sense since it was written so many years after all the others. I really liked how there were moments where the Browns were reminiscing about their times with Paddington. It really felt like a ending book to the series.
January 27, 2018
I grow up reading this as a kid had fun memories, the only problem though is that its set in modern times and r.w.alley doesn't have the same charming illustrations as Peggy fortnum does. Otherwise its good.
July 31, 2017
Paddington's adventures were a huge pleasure to me in my formative years and an equally huge influence on me as a children's author, so when I saw this beautifully-presented book in Waterstones I couldn't resist one last trip to 32 Windsor Gardens. Sadly, the trip turned out to be something of a disappointment, with the stories lacking some of the substance as well as the sparkle of the earlier books - though I'll be well pleased if I can still produce children's stories at all at such an advanced age.
The opening tale sees us in oddly adult and cynical territory, with Paddington's immigration status being called into question when the Browns encounter the police (I can't remember the earlier books ever being so political) and Paddington's activities in posting a letter for Mr Brown attracting suspicion. It's the real world, but one I'm not sure we want fully to enter at the age of seven. The language of the stories is oddly complex in places too. It's not clear whether the book is aimed at children of today or yesterday. It's also unclear when the stories are set: for all the references to mobile phones, 2014 marmalade and the Brown children saying "awesome", we also have mention of shillings, variety shows with performing animals and more car parking in London than I believe is possible today. It would have been far better to leave the stories in their innocent 1950s world and turn the books into historical tales, much as PG Wodehouse did with post-war outings for Jeeves and Lord Emsworth. Nor are the plots as strong as they were, with several - a magic show, carpentry for Mr Curry (does he never learn not to ask Paddington to do things?), a TV gameshow - being rehashed from earlier books.
By far the most entertaining is the fifth story, "Dinner for One" which sees Paddington on a "Ready Steady Cook"-type show that also parodies "Bake-Off" and "Masterchef". Despite its unlikely ending, it shows the author's old flair for a great musical-hall joke (when told "I'm invigilating", Paddington responds "I hope you feel better very soon") and a puntastic name (the judges include Anne Gellica and Romney Marsh). It's Paddington at his good-hearted and decent best. Sadly, the title story which concludes the book doesn't really live up to its name and recycles Paddington's earlier encounter with a hypnotist as well as "A Visit to the Theatre" from the first book. R.W. Alley's fine illustrations add some much-needed jollity and child-friendliness and made me smile more than once.
It was nonetheless lovely to see Paddington and the Browns again and I hope the author's passing won't deprive us of future visits to his world. If anyone does take on his mantle (or duffel-coat), it will be as well to pitch the stories squarely at a young readership (as they used to be) and to eliminate jarring references to the modern world. Paddington doesn't need them, any more than did William Brown or Jennings. I hope that any future works will ignore the slapstick and stock baddies (and the politics) of filmed versions and retain the gentleness and mischief of the original stories.
The opening tale sees us in oddly adult and cynical territory, with Paddington's immigration status being called into question when the Browns encounter the police (I can't remember the earlier books ever being so political) and Paddington's activities in posting a letter for Mr Brown attracting suspicion. It's the real world, but one I'm not sure we want fully to enter at the age of seven. The language of the stories is oddly complex in places too. It's not clear whether the book is aimed at children of today or yesterday. It's also unclear when the stories are set: for all the references to mobile phones, 2014 marmalade and the Brown children saying "awesome", we also have mention of shillings, variety shows with performing animals and more car parking in London than I believe is possible today. It would have been far better to leave the stories in their innocent 1950s world and turn the books into historical tales, much as PG Wodehouse did with post-war outings for Jeeves and Lord Emsworth. Nor are the plots as strong as they were, with several - a magic show, carpentry for Mr Curry (does he never learn not to ask Paddington to do things?), a TV gameshow - being rehashed from earlier books.
By far the most entertaining is the fifth story, "Dinner for One" which sees Paddington on a "Ready Steady Cook"-type show that also parodies "Bake-Off" and "Masterchef". Despite its unlikely ending, it shows the author's old flair for a great musical-hall joke (when told "I'm invigilating", Paddington responds "I hope you feel better very soon") and a puntastic name (the judges include Anne Gellica and Romney Marsh). It's Paddington at his good-hearted and decent best. Sadly, the title story which concludes the book doesn't really live up to its name and recycles Paddington's earlier encounter with a hypnotist as well as "A Visit to the Theatre" from the first book. R.W. Alley's fine illustrations add some much-needed jollity and child-friendliness and made me smile more than once.
It was nonetheless lovely to see Paddington and the Browns again and I hope the author's passing won't deprive us of future visits to his world. If anyone does take on his mantle (or duffel-coat), it will be as well to pitch the stories squarely at a young readership (as they used to be) and to eliminate jarring references to the modern world. Paddington doesn't need them, any more than did William Brown or Jennings. I hope that any future works will ignore the slapstick and stock baddies (and the politics) of filmed versions and retain the gentleness and mischief of the original stories.
Read
November 19, 2023Paddington’s Finest Four
Parking Problems
Mr. Brown has an important letter to mail. It’s an income tax demand note and he’s already in bad standing. But they’re stuck in the car, there’s no mailbox in sight, and it’s pouring down raining and they’re stuck in a line of cars. So, Paddington chooses to go out and mail the letter because he has a duffel coat on (and it needs a cleaning). Mr. Brown says he’ll give him a reward. He makes him promise to guard it with his life. Paddington looks out the window and sees a policeman looking in. mr. Brown warns him not to get his letter mixed up with his sandwich and not to get distracted by the police. He also shouldn’t get the letter wet. The noisy cop knocks on the window and tells Mr. Brown he has a bear in his car and wants Mr. Brown to get out but he doesn’t. The cop gets offended and says he was just looking out. Jonathan and Judy said he was probably drafted to come in to help because there’s a carnival. After the cop leaves, they hear a conversation about some cops talking about a foreigner which makes them suspicious. They think he’s in a gang run by a woman named “Aunt Lucy” and that marmalade might be a code word. The cops then question (accuse) Mr. Brown and want to search his car. When he turns this down they start finding violations. They even kick his car and try to write him up because he doesn’t have a spar. But Mr. Brown tells him he knows the superintendent and he won’t be too happy when they tell him how he kicked his car. Paddington then arrives and drenches the policeman with his umbrella. The second police decides just to call a tow truck from them. Mrs. Bird tells them there’s been a rumor that its been said it's been “raining bears” as an explanation for all the recent storms to drum up publicity for the traveling carnival that no one is going to on account of the rain They all agree that Paddington should keep out of the way for nine days. .
(Hmm! Interesting! I didn’t know that the police did stuff like this to *other* people. That’s the most surprising part. Mr. Brown stood his ground tho. G otta give him that. But sadly well if it was another Mr. Brown this could have gone a WHOLE lot differently if he’d refused to get out the car. Actually, the story should have stopped with the police getting the car towed. I’ve noticed that when Mrs. Bird starts to “explain” things that’s where the confusion starts. What was the connection between what happened with Paddington, the rain, and promotion for the carnival?(
“A Bird In The Hand”
Paddington wakes up to the chirping of a Robin Red Breast. So, he decides to go outside to tend to his garden (since there’s no sign of rain -a rare thing these days=/ Mrs. Bird gives him a special breakfast of marmalade and then suggests he go for a run around the garden. He warms him to keep his coat on. It might be sunny but it’s still chilly. Not what he had in mind but.. he goes to inspect his rockery. He hears Mr. Curry out grunting and making sounds like he’s cutting tin. Paddington’s curiosity gets the better of him.
“Curry’s The Name”
Mr Curry makes a comment about having problems with his legs and cutting them off. It’s not long before he’s convinced Paddington to “help him” saw (repair) some of his tables and chairs. He makes Paddington promise not to tell anyone, tells him he has something to do, and then leaves him to it. Amazingly everything is tidy when the Browns look, but the chair legs now are very small. Mr. Grubber trims the table legs so they’re all equal in size. Mr. Curry is pleased, gives Paddington a shelling, and displays the furniture on the front lawn. The boy who delivers the mail mentions a best spring furniture competition. He says he their neighbor was supposed to give them a flier. Mr. Cury’s furniture is covered. When Mr. Cury unveils his display it’s Paddington’s rock garden. He clearly stole it because the metal ID cards have Paddington’s[ name and address. The judge says they should both split the prize.
(Split the prize? After they found out this man clearly stole from Paddington. He should have been disqualified *and* there should have been some kind of find. You can’t just go on people’s property, take their stuff, and claim it as your own.)
“Paddington’s Magical Moments”
Mr. Grubber has a bday coming up and the Browns decide to ask him to tea. Johnathan gives Paddington a book called “Jumbo Party Tricks.” Unfortunately, Mr. Curry invites himself to the party. Paddington tries his first trick. He’ll sing a song without moving his lips, but they discover it’s a wind up gramophone when the needle gets stuck in the groove and the words repeat. His next trick is trying to raise a rod up to the ceiling. Mr. Cury isn’t fooled. He knows it’s balloons. He makes a plate of cakes disappear, but Mr. Curry points out he’s got cream on his whiskers. He brings Mr. Curry tea but Mr. Curry says that’s the oldest trick in the book- (gluing the tea set together). He then reveals the cakes that “vanished” he’s hidden under the table.
“Dinner for One”.
Paddington enters a cooking program. There are a lot of celebrities there and Sir Percival. Paddington’s dish contains (cream, truffle, and chickory). But when the judges go to taste it, he says he ate it. He says nothing in the law said he couldn’t but they say he’ll have to be eliminated because he hasn’t submitted anything. He shows them the marmalade sandwich under his hat. The judges all taste some and agree it’s delicious. Paddington tells them he made it himself. He tells them the secret is in the equal thick to thin chunks. He wins the prize money and decides he’ll spend some on the Browns and give the rest to the retired bear home in Lima.
(This felt like cheating. Anyone could have made a sandwich and brought it in, but as always things just seem to work for Paddington. Usually, cooking shows make you use *what’s there*. But I'd rather Paddington win than Mr. Curry so).
“A Visit To The Cleaners”
Mr. Curry’s lawn gets a lot of attention. Paddington is asked to take some clothes to the cleaners. Mr. Curry stops him and puts his best suit on the pile. He wants to look his best because he’s going to be photographed. Mr. Samuels thinks the suit is ratty and it’ll fall to pieces if he washes it. Then he tells Paddington about some of the weird things people bring in (distressed jeans). He leaves the clothes and goes to have his elevensies. Then he goes back to help Jonathan with his spring cleaning. He then does some “altering” to Mr. Cury’s suit. There’s a piece in the paper about how to make your own family scarecrow.
“Paddington’s Finest Hour”
The Browns and Paddington go to a variety show. He goes to get a program and then gives the girl a hard star because she won’t give him a receipt. Paddington watches the show and decides he wants to try some of the acts. Mrs. Brown vows to keep her eyes on him (and her china). Mr/ Brown has gotten them six center seats. Mrs. Brown doesn’t think this is such a good idea. The show starts with acrobats. Then there’s a ventriloquist on a unicycle with a dummy. There’s also a contortionist, someone spinning plates, and chimpanzees on the handlebars of bikes. There’s a hyptnotize who gets the audience to clap their hands above their head and some need assistance to unclasp them (as Mr. Brown has said it was rumored would happen). He picks Paddington out of the crowd and commands him to look into his eyes and follow the path of his watch. He then tells him to sing him a song, but he refuses (due to the fact bears can’t sing). Paddington gets applause, but the hyptnoise is mad. He commands him to do something but Paddington gives him another hard stare. The stage manager ends the show on this note. People see the parallel David and Golith and its agree it’s his finest hour.
(Umm.. What? They applauded because he DEFIED him and made his act look bad? Okaay),
Rating: 5
Parking Problems
Mr. Brown has an important letter to mail. It’s an income tax demand note and he’s already in bad standing. But they’re stuck in the car, there’s no mailbox in sight, and it’s pouring down raining and they’re stuck in a line of cars. So, Paddington chooses to go out and mail the letter because he has a duffel coat on (and it needs a cleaning). Mr. Brown says he’ll give him a reward. He makes him promise to guard it with his life. Paddington looks out the window and sees a policeman looking in. mr. Brown warns him not to get his letter mixed up with his sandwich and not to get distracted by the police. He also shouldn’t get the letter wet. The noisy cop knocks on the window and tells Mr. Brown he has a bear in his car and wants Mr. Brown to get out but he doesn’t. The cop gets offended and says he was just looking out. Jonathan and Judy said he was probably drafted to come in to help because there’s a carnival. After the cop leaves, they hear a conversation about some cops talking about a foreigner which makes them suspicious. They think he’s in a gang run by a woman named “Aunt Lucy” and that marmalade might be a code word. The cops then question (accuse) Mr. Brown and want to search his car. When he turns this down they start finding violations. They even kick his car and try to write him up because he doesn’t have a spar. But Mr. Brown tells him he knows the superintendent and he won’t be too happy when they tell him how he kicked his car. Paddington then arrives and drenches the policeman with his umbrella. The second police decides just to call a tow truck from them. Mrs. Bird tells them there’s been a rumor that its been said it's been “raining bears” as an explanation for all the recent storms to drum up publicity for the traveling carnival that no one is going to on account of the rain They all agree that Paddington should keep out of the way for nine days. .
(Hmm! Interesting! I didn’t know that the police did stuff like this to *other* people. That’s the most surprising part. Mr. Brown stood his ground tho. G otta give him that. But sadly well if it was another Mr. Brown this could have gone a WHOLE lot differently if he’d refused to get out the car. Actually, the story should have stopped with the police getting the car towed. I’ve noticed that when Mrs. Bird starts to “explain” things that’s where the confusion starts. What was the connection between what happened with Paddington, the rain, and promotion for the carnival?(
“A Bird In The Hand”
Paddington wakes up to the chirping of a Robin Red Breast. So, he decides to go outside to tend to his garden (since there’s no sign of rain -a rare thing these days=/ Mrs. Bird gives him a special breakfast of marmalade and then suggests he go for a run around the garden. He warms him to keep his coat on. It might be sunny but it’s still chilly. Not what he had in mind but.. he goes to inspect his rockery. He hears Mr. Curry out grunting and making sounds like he’s cutting tin. Paddington’s curiosity gets the better of him.
“Curry’s The Name”
Mr Curry makes a comment about having problems with his legs and cutting them off. It’s not long before he’s convinced Paddington to “help him” saw (repair) some of his tables and chairs. He makes Paddington promise not to tell anyone, tells him he has something to do, and then leaves him to it. Amazingly everything is tidy when the Browns look, but the chair legs now are very small. Mr. Grubber trims the table legs so they’re all equal in size. Mr. Curry is pleased, gives Paddington a shelling, and displays the furniture on the front lawn. The boy who delivers the mail mentions a best spring furniture competition. He says he their neighbor was supposed to give them a flier. Mr. Cury’s furniture is covered. When Mr. Cury unveils his display it’s Paddington’s rock garden. He clearly stole it because the metal ID cards have Paddington’s[ name and address. The judge says they should both split the prize.
(Split the prize? After they found out this man clearly stole from Paddington. He should have been disqualified *and* there should have been some kind of find. You can’t just go on people’s property, take their stuff, and claim it as your own.)
“Paddington’s Magical Moments”
Mr. Grubber has a bday coming up and the Browns decide to ask him to tea. Johnathan gives Paddington a book called “Jumbo Party Tricks.” Unfortunately, Mr. Curry invites himself to the party. Paddington tries his first trick. He’ll sing a song without moving his lips, but they discover it’s a wind up gramophone when the needle gets stuck in the groove and the words repeat. His next trick is trying to raise a rod up to the ceiling. Mr. Cury isn’t fooled. He knows it’s balloons. He makes a plate of cakes disappear, but Mr. Curry points out he’s got cream on his whiskers. He brings Mr. Curry tea but Mr. Curry says that’s the oldest trick in the book- (gluing the tea set together). He then reveals the cakes that “vanished” he’s hidden under the table.
“Dinner for One”.
Paddington enters a cooking program. There are a lot of celebrities there and Sir Percival. Paddington’s dish contains (cream, truffle, and chickory). But when the judges go to taste it, he says he ate it. He says nothing in the law said he couldn’t but they say he’ll have to be eliminated because he hasn’t submitted anything. He shows them the marmalade sandwich under his hat. The judges all taste some and agree it’s delicious. Paddington tells them he made it himself. He tells them the secret is in the equal thick to thin chunks. He wins the prize money and decides he’ll spend some on the Browns and give the rest to the retired bear home in Lima.
(This felt like cheating. Anyone could have made a sandwich and brought it in, but as always things just seem to work for Paddington. Usually, cooking shows make you use *what’s there*. But I'd rather Paddington win than Mr. Curry so).
“A Visit To The Cleaners”
Mr. Curry’s lawn gets a lot of attention. Paddington is asked to take some clothes to the cleaners. Mr. Curry stops him and puts his best suit on the pile. He wants to look his best because he’s going to be photographed. Mr. Samuels thinks the suit is ratty and it’ll fall to pieces if he washes it. Then he tells Paddington about some of the weird things people bring in (distressed jeans). He leaves the clothes and goes to have his elevensies. Then he goes back to help Jonathan with his spring cleaning. He then does some “altering” to Mr. Cury’s suit. There’s a piece in the paper about how to make your own family scarecrow.
“Paddington’s Finest Hour”
The Browns and Paddington go to a variety show. He goes to get a program and then gives the girl a hard star because she won’t give him a receipt. Paddington watches the show and decides he wants to try some of the acts. Mrs. Brown vows to keep her eyes on him (and her china). Mr/ Brown has gotten them six center seats. Mrs. Brown doesn’t think this is such a good idea. The show starts with acrobats. Then there’s a ventriloquist on a unicycle with a dummy. There’s also a contortionist, someone spinning plates, and chimpanzees on the handlebars of bikes. There’s a hyptnotize who gets the audience to clap their hands above their head and some need assistance to unclasp them (as Mr. Brown has said it was rumored would happen). He picks Paddington out of the crowd and commands him to look into his eyes and follow the path of his watch. He then tells him to sing him a song, but he refuses (due to the fact bears can’t sing). Paddington gets applause, but the hyptnoise is mad. He commands him to do something but Paddington gives him another hard stare. The stage manager ends the show on this note. People see the parallel David and Golith and its agree it’s his finest hour.
(Umm.. What? They applauded because he DEFIED him and made his act look bad? Okaay),
Rating: 5
September 4, 2020
I absolutely adore Paddington and have the films on DVD. I haven’t read any of the books since childhood so thought I might give the series another read as Paddington’s character really makes me chuckle. While I felt this wasn’t one of the strongest in the series, I see myself continuing with it.
August 23, 2020
Reflections and lessons learned:
So many happy familiarities from multiple times of my life - Paddington, the Brown family, Mrs Bird and Stephen Fry... like a big ball of feathers in pillows and a quilt of short stories making me comfy...
So many happy familiarities from multiple times of my life - Paddington, the Brown family, Mrs Bird and Stephen Fry... like a big ball of feathers in pillows and a quilt of short stories making me comfy...
June 5, 2018
Not of the better Paddington books. Doesn't flow well making it difficult to read to children and keep them entertained. I usually lobe Paddington books so I was disappointed.
September 1, 2024
Paddintgon's Finest Hour is the last Paddington book written by Michael Bond just before his passing at the respectable age of 91 - and I am saddened to say that it's a farewell that could have been left out.
Like the other Paddington books, the chapters of this book are mostly short stories about some whimsical adventure Paddington ends up in. Before this, we had read the very first two books and enjoyed them quite a lot, but here the magic seems to be gone, even when though we had not read every book in the decades spanning series.
The adventures and whimsical tragedies here repeat many of the things already seen in the first books: once more, Paddington performs a silly magic show and goes to the theater but neither is as funny or exciting as the first time around. The other chapters are similarly disappointing, the first one being an unfortunate highlight in the way that I still am not sure what was the point of it or what happened.
However, the biggest flaw is the writing style. Gone is the warm and endearing style that made you, if not laugh, smile from ear to ear. What's here rarely amused us or was even that entertaining. The narration seems to stray of the story to weird tangents that make no sense and pull away from the story, though I'm certain they were meant as funny little quips.
It was weird for us to realize that Paddington of all things failed to entertain us but fortunately, there are more than ten other older books to still experience.
Like the other Paddington books, the chapters of this book are mostly short stories about some whimsical adventure Paddington ends up in. Before this, we had read the very first two books and enjoyed them quite a lot, but here the magic seems to be gone, even when though we had not read every book in the decades spanning series.
The adventures and whimsical tragedies here repeat many of the things already seen in the first books: once more, Paddington performs a silly magic show and goes to the theater but neither is as funny or exciting as the first time around. The other chapters are similarly disappointing, the first one being an unfortunate highlight in the way that I still am not sure what was the point of it or what happened.
However, the biggest flaw is the writing style. Gone is the warm and endearing style that made you, if not laugh, smile from ear to ear. What's here rarely amused us or was even that entertaining. The narration seems to stray of the story to weird tangents that make no sense and pull away from the story, though I'm certain they were meant as funny little quips.
It was weird for us to realize that Paddington of all things failed to entertain us but fortunately, there are more than ten other older books to still experience.
April 2, 2022
I adore Paddington, so I'm afraid my review will be incredibly biased!
I've subsequently discovered that this was Michael Bond's last Paddington book, which he wrote at the grand age of 91. The illustrations were done by my favourite Paddington illustrator, R. W. Alley, whose Paddington is delightfully whimsical and has the most lustrous black fluffy ears. Seven new Paddington stories are included in this volume, which includes all of Paddington's friends and nemisis, Mr Curry, alongside the Brown's and Mrs Bird.
The stories are hilarious and a brilliant example comes when Paddington is sent off in the rain to post an important letter for Mr Brown. He gets back to the car where the family are huddled, trying to keep warm and to distract a police officer who's suspicious about why there's a bear in the car and opens the umbrella in the car - soaking every member of the family.
Paddington gets his own back on Mr Curry after he has his plants stolen from his rockery in advance of the garden show competition. This shows that while Paddington is often naive, which is a huge part of his charm and gets him out of so many sticky situations of his own creation, that he's got the measure of Mr Curry and is able to get his revenge in a wholly wide-eyed and innocent way - go Paddington!
Did I love this book? Hell yes. Could you tell?
I've subsequently discovered that this was Michael Bond's last Paddington book, which he wrote at the grand age of 91. The illustrations were done by my favourite Paddington illustrator, R. W. Alley, whose Paddington is delightfully whimsical and has the most lustrous black fluffy ears. Seven new Paddington stories are included in this volume, which includes all of Paddington's friends and nemisis, Mr Curry, alongside the Brown's and Mrs Bird.
The stories are hilarious and a brilliant example comes when Paddington is sent off in the rain to post an important letter for Mr Brown. He gets back to the car where the family are huddled, trying to keep warm and to distract a police officer who's suspicious about why there's a bear in the car and opens the umbrella in the car - soaking every member of the family.
Paddington gets his own back on Mr Curry after he has his plants stolen from his rockery in advance of the garden show competition. This shows that while Paddington is often naive, which is a huge part of his charm and gets him out of so many sticky situations of his own creation, that he's got the measure of Mr Curry and is able to get his revenge in a wholly wide-eyed and innocent way - go Paddington!
Did I love this book? Hell yes. Could you tell?
January 11, 2022
This is a quick fun read which I though was quite fun. The arrival of a new Paddington Bear book is an unexpected pleasure, like finding a marmalade sandwich under your hat you’d forgotten you’d left there. Little has changed in the Peruvian bear’s world. Despite the odd reference — Michael Bond conjures up a timeless postwar period.
Paddington remains bewildered by human customs but eager to lend a paw, whether it’s adjusting the length of the legs on outdoor furniture, hosting a magic show or entering a TV cookery contest. Of course, chaos always ensues, much to his surprise.
The book mostly is a delight, but the final section is just a little off, as a stage hypnotist is outmatched by one of those famous hard stares.
The characters didn’t seem as innocent as they were in earlier books and in this book the neighbor actually stole Paddington’s flowers and pretended they were his - even after proof - which seemed pretty harsh and then the Browns and housekeeper sort of shrugged their shoulders and the story moved on. Paddington has been such a cute set of stories, narrated by Stephen Fry one of my British all time favorites, but it is missing some of the sparkle.
Paddington remains bewildered by human customs but eager to lend a paw, whether it’s adjusting the length of the legs on outdoor furniture, hosting a magic show or entering a TV cookery contest. Of course, chaos always ensues, much to his surprise.
The book mostly is a delight, but the final section is just a little off, as a stage hypnotist is outmatched by one of those famous hard stares.
The characters didn’t seem as innocent as they were in earlier books and in this book the neighbor actually stole Paddington’s flowers and pretended they were his - even after proof - which seemed pretty harsh and then the Browns and housekeeper sort of shrugged their shoulders and the story moved on. Paddington has been such a cute set of stories, narrated by Stephen Fry one of my British all time favorites, but it is missing some of the sparkle.
October 11, 2022
Well, I wanted to start with A Bear Called Paddington (I think I saw the first part of the movie?) but, in a hurry, I borrowed Paddington's Finest Hour from the library. I just learnt that this was the author's last book. Nevertheless, I started with the last book.
Who wouldn't like a bear who is innocent, helpful and witty (but in an innocent way). The book has seven chapters which are loosely connected. I really enjoyed the "Dinner for one" - it was humorous of all chapters.
Who wouldn't like a bear who is innocent, helpful and witty (but in an innocent way). The book has seven chapters which are loosely connected. I really enjoyed the "Dinner for one" - it was humorous of all chapters.
June 7, 2017
Princess Fuzzypants here:
Paddington Bear is a star. He's been a star for many decades thanks to the wonderful books but he is now also a star of film and in this book, he conquers a tv cooking show as well. Will his talents never end?
With his duffle coat and his bush hat, our sweet bear from darkest Peru is back with some very funny and dear tales. No matter with whom he is confronted from the police to a shifty neighbour to the judges on the cooking show, he deals with them with good grace and cheer. He is unfailingly polite and helpful as he manages to charm his way out of trouble and into the hearts of his readers.
There is a reason his stories have traversed generations.
I give this five purrs and two paws up.
Paddington Bear is a star. He's been a star for many decades thanks to the wonderful books but he is now also a star of film and in this book, he conquers a tv cooking show as well. Will his talents never end?
With his duffle coat and his bush hat, our sweet bear from darkest Peru is back with some very funny and dear tales. No matter with whom he is confronted from the police to a shifty neighbour to the judges on the cooking show, he deals with them with good grace and cheer. He is unfailingly polite and helpful as he manages to charm his way out of trouble and into the hearts of his readers.
There is a reason his stories have traversed generations.
I give this five purrs and two paws up.
May 20, 2022
This, the final Paddington adventures, I found just as endearing as the earlier books. Yes the stories have been updated somewhat for the 21st century, with mention of mobile phones, a television cooking programme, and distressed jeans, but there remains an old-world charm about these stories that makes them just as delightful as the previous stories.
All the usual suspects are there, including the annoying neighbour Mr Curry, Paddington’s good friend from the Portobello Road Mr Gruber, and the Browns’ no-nonsense housekeeper Mrs Bird. Though I would have liked to have had more of Mr Gruber in these stories.
There’s plenty of marmalade sandwiches to satisfy everyone here!
All the usual suspects are there, including the annoying neighbour Mr Curry, Paddington’s good friend from the Portobello Road Mr Gruber, and the Browns’ no-nonsense housekeeper Mrs Bird. Though I would have liked to have had more of Mr Gruber in these stories.
There’s plenty of marmalade sandwiches to satisfy everyone here!
November 22, 2017
A rollicking good time will be had by all who read this latest installment in Paddington's adventures. There is plenty of humor surrounding all that Paddington does. And the Brown family, their housekeeper and other people add to the underlying humor. There are a few Britishisms which readers may puzzle over but hopefully this will lead them to research the terminology and enlarge their vocabularies. There are black and white drawings included which help to illustrate various scenes. Middle grade readers will enjoy all the fun.
July 3, 2018
I have been a fan of Paddington since I first read the books and watched the tv show when I was a kid.
This was a sweet little book that I enjoyed listening to. Stephen Fry's narration was great. Each of these stories holds the wonder and whimsy that Paddington's stories always have. It's just as heartwarming and had a soothing quality that made it wonderful to wind down with.
Any Paddington fan would enjoy this story and newer listeners and readers will also enjoy it. A great book for children.
*I received a copy of the audiobook for free for an honest review.*
This was a sweet little book that I enjoyed listening to. Stephen Fry's narration was great. Each of these stories holds the wonder and whimsy that Paddington's stories always have. It's just as heartwarming and had a soothing quality that made it wonderful to wind down with.
Any Paddington fan would enjoy this story and newer listeners and readers will also enjoy it. A great book for children.
*I received a copy of the audiobook for free for an honest review.*
August 21, 2017
The Bear from Darkest Peru is back and still having misadventures.
Paddington takes on cooking, the police and much more in this beautifully written tale.
The classic elements of Paddington are all there, The Browns, Mr Curry, Mrs Bird and of course elevenses with Mr Gruber.
The writing is simple and yet fills you a familiar warmth, like marmalade sandwiches with cocoa.
Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this.
Paddington takes on cooking, the police and much more in this beautifully written tale.
The classic elements of Paddington are all there, The Browns, Mr Curry, Mrs Bird and of course elevenses with Mr Gruber.
The writing is simple and yet fills you a familiar warmth, like marmalade sandwiches with cocoa.
Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this.
March 24, 2024
We're so proud of you for reading "Paddington's Finest Hour" by Michael Bond. You've learned that even in challenging times, kindness, bravery, and determination shine through. Like Paddington, you can overcome obstacles with a positive attitude and a kind heart. Remember, darling, your finest hour is always within reach when you approach life's challenges with courage and kindness.
Love,
Mom and Dad
Love,
Mom and Dad
July 9, 2017
Darkest Peru's biggest export is back in another timeless adventure. I'd grown up with Paddington at an early age and decided, thanks to Netgalley, to introduce my grandson to the lovable bear. Michael Bonds creation continues to charm even after all these years.
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