In 1958, British writer Michael Bond shared with the world how ordinary events become extraordinary for the Brown family upon adopting Paddington, a friendly bear in his novel A Bear called Paddington.  

How would you describe Paddington’s character? Based on the way he perceives things like humour and surprises, how is he different from the Brown family and the other members of the local community? Who do you relate to better, and why? 

In the book, Paddington was considered to be an ‘immigrant’ from Peru. How does the story help improve your understanding of immigrants and the struggles they may encounter as they settle into their new homes, merge with the local communities and potentially new families?

On the other hand, how does the Brown family learn to accept the presence of their new member? Do you think they treat him as a pet, a friend, a family member or something else? What makes you think so?

In the process of adapting to the new culture, Paddington gets himself into all sorts of trouble that both the Brown family and readers find hilarious. Judging from his reactions, how do you think Paddington feels about it? How would you feel about it if you were in his shoes?