Thanks for the tips, JJ! I got the tiny jar of Marmite today and tried it on some bagel-like bread (ate it right inside the store) and my first impression is that it tastes a LOT like the thick, sticky soy sauce from Chinese cooking (it is quite different from the more generic, free-flowing soy sauce). There were subtle flavors in there too, so I'll have to eat more of it before rushing to conclusions. It does appear to be a good base for vegetarian soup.
Also found a local library with around 6 of the Paddington books, and read the first one, and the first story of "Paddington takes the test". I realize what you mean now, that despite each book having a "theme" in its title, the individual chapters are usually independent free-standing storylines.
There are some nice (and fairly obvious) parallels to Foster's: The Brown's home is effectively a foster home for the bear; however, despite both anthropomorphic characters always getting in trouble, Paddington always resolves his problems in a polite and positive manner, unlike Bloo. Some of the interjections in the books also remind me a lot of Mr Herriman ("Well, I never!" and "I do believe that such and such...")
The best part I read today was in the 1st chapter of "Takes the Test". A quick summary of the events: Mr. Brown needs a new car, since his current one is falling apart, and Paddington volunteers to "paw signal" turns. However, a policeman disapproves and forces Mr Brown to retake the driving exam. Paddington is mistaken for Mr Brown, and the examiner begins asking him questions on the rules of the road.
Examiner: What should we be careful with this time of year?
Paddington: Strawberries! Eating while driving is especially dangerous when your ashtray is full of stems!
E: I was looking for "rain showers"... Now, what does this sign indicate?
P: It looks like a man trying to open an umbrella!
At this point I was trying very hard to control my laughter and not get kicked out of the library! The next few lines involve the Examiner correcting the bear, and the latter trying to explain, "Well, he must be getting ready for those rain showers you talked about!"