Lindsay Mattick

Before there was a famous storybook bear named Winnie-the-Pooh, there was a real bear named Winnie. And she was a girl! In 1914, a veterinarian named Harry Colebourn was on his way to tend horses in World War I when he followed his heart and rescued a baby bear. Naming her Winnie after his hometown of Winnipeg, Harry took his new furry friend on an incredible journey across the ocean to an army base in England. Eventually, Winnie found a safe home at the London Zoo, where she made another very special friend: a real boy named Christopher Robin. Written by Harry Colebourn's real-life great-granddaughter, this beautifully illustrated true story captures a remarkable friendship that changed children's literature forever. Discover the heartwarming, real-life adventure of the brave little bear who inspired the world's most beloved silly old bear.

Even as a tiny cub in the deep Canadian forest, there is something truly extraordinary about this bear. She possesses a bold spirit, a longing to climb higher than any other bear, and a deep curiosity about the world beyond the woods. But her life changes forever on August twenty-four, 1914, when she crosses paths with Lieutenant Harry Colebourn. Harry names the remarkable cub Winnie and brings her along as the official mascot for his regiment, the Second Canadian Infantry Brigade. Together, they embark on an incredible journey across the ocean, sailing straight toward the harsh realities of the Great War. As they travel far from home, Winnie experiences close calls, thrilling triumphs, and the deep bonds of unexpected friendship. Her courage and loyalty shine bright during a time of immense challenge and sacrifice. This novel brings to life the remarkable true history of a brave little bear whose incredible wartime adventure eventually leads her to the London Zoo. There, she will meet a young boy named Christopher Robin and spark the inspiration for one of the most beloved characters in literary history. Discover the heartwarming and thrilling origins of the world's most famous bear in a story that proves heroes come in all shapes and sizes.