- Hardcover: 224 pages
- Publisher: Birlinn Ltd (1 Sep 2010)
- Language English
- ISBN-10: 1841588458
- ISBN-13: 978-1841588452
- Product Dimensions: 19.8 x 13.8 x 2.8 cm
- Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
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Amazon Bestsellers Rank:
207,138 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- #61 in Books > History > Countries & Regions > Asia > Middle East > Iran
- #87 in Books > Biography > Historical > Countries & Regions > Italy
Wojtek the Bear: Polish War Hero
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Product Description
Review
'This is a book that tells a sad and inspiring story in the most heart-warming way possible, bound to please those who know the history and an excellent introduction for those who don' t.' --Cosmopolitan Review
'It's hard not to love that big bear Wojtek. He speaks to the heart.' --The Thoughtful Blogger
'It's hard not to love that big bear Wojtek. He speaks to the heart.' --The Thoughtful Blogger
Product Description
This is the inspiring true story of one of the Second World War's most unusual combatants - a 500-pound cigarette-smoking, beer-drinking brown bear. Originally adopted as a mascot by the Polish Army in Iran, Wojtek soon took on a more practical role, carrying heavy mortar rounds for the troops and going on to play his part as a fully enlisted 'soldier' with his own rank and number during the Italian campaign. After the war, Wojtek, along with some of his Polish compatriots from II Corps, came to Berwickshire, where he became a significant member of the local community before subsequently moving to Edinburgh Zoo. Wojtek's retirement was far from quiet: a potent symbol of freedom and solidarity for Poles around the world, he attracted a huge amount of media interest that shows no sign of abating more than 45 years after his death. In an extended introduction, journalist and historian Neal Ascherson reflects on the Polish experience in the Second World War and gives full recognition to the Poles' heroic sacrifice and the extraordinary influence they had on the countries in which they served.
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
26 of 26 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover
I have read Geoffrey Morgan and Wieslaw Lasocki book about Wojtek already so I thought I wouldn't find anything new really except the entertainment maybe. How wrong I was!!! The book gives an introduction to Wojtek's origins, how he happened to live with Polish soldiers, full account of his silly habits and pranks etc. But the real value of the book becomes evident when the story reaches Scotland and Wojtek's and his friends life there. The invaluable source of information about Wojtek, Polish soldiers, Scots and their attitude towards Poles. A bit sad story to be honest but I won't say anything else... Anyway both books complement each other perfectly.
The book carries a lot of emotional baggage, I couldn't stop thinking about Wojtek for a long time after I finished reading and I suspect everyone will have the same problem. Beware!!!
Aileen Orr is a founder of the Wojtek Memorial Trust, an organisation set up to create Wojtek's memorial, initially in Edinburgh and then in Cassino and in Warsaw. I truly hope she will be succesful in her project and (although I am a convinced atheist) God bless her for her efforts... and the book...
The book carries a lot of emotional baggage, I couldn't stop thinking about Wojtek for a long time after I finished reading and I suspect everyone will have the same problem. Beware!!!
Aileen Orr is a founder of the Wojtek Memorial Trust, an organisation set up to create Wojtek's memorial, initially in Edinburgh and then in Cassino and in Warsaw. I truly hope she will be succesful in her project and (although I am a convinced atheist) God bless her for her efforts... and the book...
22 of 22 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover
Aileen Orr's story is deceptively simple and highly readable, but her research has clearly been extensive and she manages to set this gem of a story about Wpjtek the lovable rogue bear who thought he was a Polish soldier against a background of terrible tragedy and injustice without losing any of the charm. wit, humour and picaresque detail which made him so beloved in his time - splashing in water holes, scoffing down food, begging for a cigarette, always looking for a new game or adventure. Amongst all the anecdotes and reminiscences - and they are guaranteed to make you both laugh and cry - there is a deep understanding of the terrible loss experienced by those Polish soldiers who were encamped in Scotland, and by the people of Poland generally. The fuller details of the political and military events which caused this tragedy are described in a short but very sharp and informative epilogue by Neal Ascherson. This is a life-changing book. Read it and you will never forget Wojtek, and you will never think of Poland and the Polish people in the same way again.
22 of 22 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover
I bought this book not quite knowing what to expect. From the first pages I was hooked! What an amazing story of a truly remarkable animal friend. It's absolutely heartwarming. I found myself laughing out loud at Wojek's antics and crying at his fate. I also learned much about the Polish experience of the Second World War that I did not know about, as well as the Scottish connection. This story touches many people's lives in a profound way. I definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a good read.
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
entertaining and informative
The history of Wojtek the bear is extraordinary, at times even hard to believe. It is true nonetheless - and thoroughly reviewed in this informative book. Read more
Published 2 months ago by Ewa
wojtek the bear
Who knew such a little book would pack such a punch. It's not even 200 pages long and Wojtek's (Voy-check) story ends on page 140. Read more
Published 4 months ago by Ali
A wonderful tale of love, friendship and camaraderie!
Studying History at university, I have read enough historical literature and research to be able to tell you that it's very rare that you come across such a light-hearted, warming... Read more
Published 5 months ago by Cornish Maid
wonderful
My Polish Grandparents told me the story of Wojtek when I was little. So when I saw this book I knew I had to read it. It made me smile, laugh and cry. A real gem.
Published 7 months ago by Anne Boleyn
great story
interesting, wonderful story
hero is not always the one on the first line of fire
hero was the one who gives strength to his friends
I am glad that this book was... Read more
hero is not always the one on the first line of fire
hero was the one who gives strength to his friends
I am glad that this book was... Read more
Published 12 months ago by inkognit
Wojtek the Bear = Polish War Hero
I met the author Aileen Orr when she gave a talk about Wojtek at a meeting - she also brought along the macquette of wojtek and a Polish Soldier which was irresistible to touch. Read more
Published 13 months ago by happygranny
One of the most unusally brilliant war stories
Was really impressed by the story, was compelling and really interesting to read. I am such a fan of war novels and 'Soldier Bear' is one that is unique as you have a bear involved... Read more
Published 18 months ago by Jay
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