The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame is a children's story that lives in the hearts and minds of its readers well into adulthood. With its subtle blend of anthropomorphism and very-British humor, the book is a classic tale of river life and friendship.
Story Overview: The Wind in the WillowsThe novel begins with Mole, a peace-loving little animal, doing some spring cleaning. He soon meets another of the people who live by the river, Ratty, who enjoys nothing more than "messing about in boats." After a number of pleasant afternoons having picnics and spending time on the river, Mole and Ratty decide to visit one of Ratty's friends, Toad who—when they arrive—explains to them his latest obsession: a horse and cart. They go for a ride with Toad, but whilst on the road, they are tipped over by a speeding motorcar (which completely breaks Toad's little cart).
Far from being upset by the loss of his favorite toy, Toad's first thought is that he, too, wants one of those incredible automobiles. This obsession leads him to trouble, however. Much to Mole, Ratty and their old and wise friend Badger's sadness, Toad is soon arrested and sent to prison for stealing a motor car. However, one of the guard's daughters soon feels sorry for the poor Toad (who certainly wasn't made for prison life) and gives him some old washerwoman’s clothes and helps him to escape.
Toad returns to the river and is welcomed by his friends, who tell him that his home, Toad Hall—once his pride and joy—has been overtaken by the cruel woodlanders: the stoats and the weasels. Some hope does seem to be in sight: Badger tells Toad that there is a secret tunnel leading back into the very heart of Toad Hall and the four friends follow it, leading them right into the lair of their enemies.
An enormous battle ensues and Badger, Mole, Ratty and Toad manage to rid the hall of stoats and weasels, placing Toad back where he belongs. The rest of the book suggests that the four friends will continue in their easygoing lifestyle, occasionally taking trips on the river and eating picnics. Toad manages to curb his obsessive behavior, somewhat, but cannot completely cure himself.
The animal characters are completely humanized, but their personalities and characteristics are still linked to their animal's characteristics. The Wind in the Willows is wryly humorous and tremendously fun. This book is one of the greatest children's books of all time.
Story Overview: The Wind in the WillowsThe novel begins with Mole, a peace-loving little animal, doing some spring cleaning. He soon meets another of the people who live by the river, Ratty, who enjoys nothing more than "messing about in boats." After a number of pleasant afternoons having picnics and spending time on the river, Mole and Ratty decide to visit one of Ratty's friends, Toad who—when they arrive—explains to them his latest obsession: a horse and cart. They go for a ride with Toad, but whilst on the road, they are tipped over by a speeding motorcar (which completely breaks Toad's little cart).
Far from being upset by the loss of his favorite toy, Toad's first thought is that he, too, wants one of those incredible automobiles. This obsession leads him to trouble, however. Much to Mole, Ratty and their old and wise friend Badger's sadness, Toad is soon arrested and sent to prison for stealing a motor car. However, one of the guard's daughters soon feels sorry for the poor Toad (who certainly wasn't made for prison life) and gives him some old washerwoman’s clothes and helps him to escape.
Toad returns to the river and is welcomed by his friends, who tell him that his home, Toad Hall—once his pride and joy—has been overtaken by the cruel woodlanders: the stoats and the weasels. Some hope does seem to be in sight: Badger tells Toad that there is a secret tunnel leading back into the very heart of Toad Hall and the four friends follow it, leading them right into the lair of their enemies.
An enormous battle ensues and Badger, Mole, Ratty and Toad manage to rid the hall of stoats and weasels, placing Toad back where he belongs. The rest of the book suggests that the four friends will continue in their easygoing lifestyle, occasionally taking trips on the river and eating picnics. Toad manages to curb his obsessive behavior, somewhat, but cannot completely cure himself.
The animal characters are completely humanized, but their personalities and characteristics are still linked to their animal's characteristics. The Wind in the Willows is wryly humorous and tremendously fun. This book is one of the greatest children's books of all time.
