Captain Harry Colebourn, a Canadian veterinarian and horse doctor in World War I, bought a baby bear from a trapper, and later, brought the bear overseas to England. He named the bear Winnipeg after their home, and the bear was called Winnie for short. However, Colebourn is only part of the story.  Both books show Winnie growing from a trapped baby cub to a soldier’s bear to a little boy’s best friend. While both nonfiction books are illustrated, each feature photographs of Winnie and Colebourn.

Finding Winnie by Lindsay Mattick

And so, Captain Harry Colebourn’s empathy flows smoothly across the pages and in doing so demonstrates the meaning of unselfishness. The relationship between himself and Winnie is displayed as lovingly paternal. The story of the bear that inspired the tales of Winnie the Pooh is told here in a soft story book style and is recommended for a lovely quiet read for animal fans. Preschoolers and kindergarteners in particular might find this a great book for cuddle time.

Winnie by Sally M. Walker

Walker’s rendition showcases Captain Harry Colebourn relationship and experiences with Winnie as quite lively. While the language is not as smooth, readers will find humor in the  the anecdotes selected from the live of the bear who inspired the tales of Winnie the Pooh. The illustrations portray the movement and action in each related experience. Recommended for fans looking for a little more romp in their stories.