Mattick, L. (2015). Finding Winnie: the true story of the world’s most famous bear. Ill. by Blackall, S. New York, NY: Little, Brown. ISBN: 9780316324908

The story begins with a mother sharing a story with her son about a veterinarian named Harry that was called to assist with animals at war. On his journey he came across a bear and decided to rescue it from the trapper. All the while he knew the work it would take to care for a bear. After sometime he and the soldiers grew accustomed to the bear and named it Winnie. They were set to sail across the ocean, knowing it would not be a place for a bear. Harry decided it was only right to place Winnie where he needed to be, The London Zoo. As a result that bear Winnie, then became who we know now as Winnie-the-Pooh.

It was a bit confusing as I had to reread the second part of the story more than once. The illustrations were breathtaking as Harry traveled to and from home, the London Zoo, and across the ocean.

Starred Review in Horn Book "The sum total is as captivating as it is informative, transforming a personal family story into something universally resonant."

Starred Review in School Library Journal "A perfect melding of beautiful art with soulful, imaginative writing, this lovely story, penned by Colebourn's great-great granddaughter, is ideal for sharing aloud or poring over individually."

The Caldecott Medal

Charlotte Zolotow Award