Soldier Bear

In this charming novel for children, Dutch author Bibi Dumon Tak fictionalizes the true story of an orphaned Syrian brown bear cub who's adopted by a group of Polish soldiers during World War II, eventually becoming the unit's beloved mascot. The mischievous bear cub was named Voytek (smiling warrior) by the soldiers. As the soldiers journeyed through Iran and Iraq on their way to their assignment in Palestine to join their Brtish allies, even the officers softened at the adorable teddy bear of a cub. But of course, cute little cubs soon grow big, and Voytek soon is getting into plenty of trouble, especially with the resident monkey, Kaska, who loved to throw stones, sand, or whatever she could find at poor Voytek's head. But that wasn't the whole menagerie that followed the soldiers around; there was also a dog named Stalin, who Kaska liked to hitch rides on, and a dalmatian who loved to romp around with the bear.Tak writes about the soldiers and their animal friends with such good humor that I found myself laughing out loud at their antics, especially touching in the middle of a war. When the soldiers are sent to supply Allied troops in Italy, Voytek takes his place helping to move live artillery shells, when he's not stealing food from the cook or sliding up and down cranes like an acrobat, stopping traffic as soldiers stopped to cheer him on.While a story of a tamed bear who's goodnaturedly given chocolate, beer, and cigarettes isn't quite "politically correct" for today's American audience, I was charmed by the story of Voytek, his animal friends, and the soldiers who loved them in the middle of wartime. The book is greatly enriched by the pencil drawings of Dutch illustrator Philip Hopman, which perfectly capture the humor and pathos of the story. Any animal lover will be delighted by the story of lonely soldiers, little more than boys themselves, cuddling up at night with a furry bear, who liked to suck on their fingers at night as a sort of human pacifier.The conclusion of the book includes some photographs of Voytek with his soldier buddies, as well as an afterword about Voytek's true story.

This book was Fantastic, the only reason why I chose I four star review was because I was really into the book and I was sad when it came to the end and the tough choice the main characters had to make. I enjoyed the book so much that I recommend it to everyone who likes reading because once I was past the first two chapters I could not stop waiting to read the next chapter and continue on in the story.

As a child, I heard tales of Wojtek & didn't think it odd that an animal could be as noble and heroic as a human. When I learned about this book, I initially thought of giving a copy to a young, animal-loving reader then realized I wanted to read it myself. With 1 exception, all of the episodes depicted in the book were stories I had been told. I enjoyed the book & believe that any adult who reads this to children will love Wojtek as much as the little ones will. And the children will learn from a lively history lesson that deep friendship & loyalty are possible between those of completely different backgrounds, nationalities, or species.

Overall, I like the story of the famous bear. I also enjoy the illustrations. If something was lacking, it might be that I would like to hear more about the bear's post-war life.

I got this for a niece as its written more for older kids. I was already familiar with the story.

My grandson has shown some interest in the history of the two world wars. The story of the bear has some relevance to us. I am of Polish heritage and two of my father's cousins fought in the Anders army during WW II. While there are no stories of bears in our family lore, I thought the story would be of interest. And it is about an animal.

This is a true story about Wotjek the Bear. He was a bear who thought he was a Polish soldier in World War II. His mixture of bear and human traits make him an endearing historical character. His adventures and misadventures are entertaining reading. He has become a symbol for the Polish people.

Gave to my 16vyear old grandson and he could not put book down.

Great book

Yes, the book is lovely to read, based on a true story, a very fascinating piece of history, just go ahead and buy it!!!!

good kids book