Finding Winnie
Finding Winnie
Book Brief
56
Novel • Fiction
World War I
2015
Middle grade
3-8 years
Super Short Summary
Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear by Lindsay Mattick tells the real-life story of a bear cub named Winnie, adopted by Captain Harry Colebourn during World War I. The book details how Harry, a kind veterinarian, bought Winnie from a trapper, brought her to a cavalry base where she became the soldiers’ beloved mascot, and eventually left her at London Zoo, where she inspired A.A. Milne’s fictional Winnie-the-Pooh.
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Finding Winnie by Lindsay Mattick has been praised for its heartwarming true story, charming illustrations, and emotional depth. Readers appreciate the multi-generational narrative and historical context. However, some felt the pacing could be slow for younger children. Overall, its blend of history and sentiment makes it a compelling read for all ages.
Who Should Read Finding Winnie?
Readers who cherish heartwarming true stories and adored Winnie-the-Pooh will delight in Finding Winnie by Lindsay Mattick. Perfect for fans of The Velveteen Rabbit and Goodnight Moon, it captures the bond between a soldier and a bear, ideal for both children and nostalgic adults.
Finding Winnie is inspired by the real-life story of Winnie-the-Pooh, whose name originated from a female black bear named Winnipeg at the London Zoo.
The author, Lindsay Mattick, is the great-granddaughter of Harry Colebourn, the Canadian veterinarian who adopted the bear cub, Winnie, during World War I.
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Finding Winnie won the 2016 Caldecott Medal for its illustrations by Sophie Blackall, recognizing it as the most distinguished American picture book for children that year.
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56
Novel • Fiction
World War I
2015
Middle grade
3-8 years
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