Bearly Believable, reviewed by Christian Braun

“‘Bearly Believableâ?? is the hilarious story of how Shirley Clarkson grew her company, Gabrielle Designs, from a tiny spare-room business selling tea cosies in Doncaster into an international business shipping Paddington Bears all over the world. With no business experience, no capital, just £100 of backing, and a copy of Michael Bondâ??s book for inspiration, Shirley came up with the original – now classic – Paddington Bear.

Shirley originally made the stuffed toy as a Christmas present for her children TV presenter Jeremy, and corporate lawyer Joanna. But soon, everyone wanted a Paddington! She tells her rollercoaster story with warmth, modesty and a blunt Yorkshire wit. For fans of Paddington, her book provides a delightful insight into how a simple bear became a worldwide icon.”