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Kenneth Grahame was born in Edinburgh, Scotland but in early childhood, after being orphaned, moved to live with his grandmother on the banks of the River Thames in southern England. He was an outstanding pupil at St Edward's School in Oxford and wanted to attend Oxford University but was not allowed to do so by his guardian on grounds of cost. Instead he was sent to work at the Bank of England in 1879, and rose through the ranks until retiring as its Secretary in 1908 due to ill health. In addition to ill health, Grahame's retirement was precipitated in 1903 by a strange, possibly political, shooting incident at the bank. Grahame was shot at three times, all of them missed. Grahame's marriage to Elspeth Thomson was an unhappy one. They had only one child, a boy named Alastair, who was born blind in one eye and was plagued by health problems throughout his short life. Alastair eventually committed suicide on a railway track while an undergraduate at Oxford University, two days before his 20th birthday on 7 May, 1920. Out of respect for Kenneth Grahame, Alastair's demise was recorded as an accidental death. Kenneth Grahame died in Pangbourne, Berkshire in 1932.
Join Mole, Ratty, Badger and Mr. Toad in their adventures and antics, from venturing into the dark and dangerous Wild Wood to simply messing about in boats.
The classic story of Ratty, Toad and Badger – three friends who live on the riverbank – is full of adventure, excitement and wonderful characters. David Roberts’ illustrations bring a touch of sophistication to the familiar story and capture perfectly the outrageous Mr Toad’s great adventure behind the wheel of his car. **** Parents might also be interested in Wild Wood, Jan Needle's richly comic re-telling of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, a book which can be read as political satire but there's much more to enjoy. Though the wood is cold and unemployment bleak it only takes a sea rat with an accordion and a nip of Daisy Ferret's special brew to get the stoats and weasels partying. Wild Wood is as funny, as relevant and as pleasurable in 2014 as it was on first publication in 1981.
The classic adventure of Mole, Ratty, Mr Badger and, of course, Mr Toad is beautifully presented in this gorgeous edition with illustrations by David Roberts. In addition to illustrating the story, David Roberts has also created 32 beautiful playing cards featuring the animals in their watery homes. Perfect for playing family games such as snap.
Friendship, hospitality and having fun propel the adventures of these four animals as they go about their lives against the watery landscape in this classic tale. Life on the riverbank with close-friends Mole, Rat, Toad and Badger is mostly peaceful. There is lots of entertaining as well as a great deal of just messing about on the river. Just occasionally the peace is shattered, as when Toad gets behind the wheel of his car and speeds around the countryside letting rip with the horn or, more seriously, by brief attempts to defeat the weasels and stoats in the Wild Wood.
Kenneth Grahame’s classic story of friendship and the countryside is at its best when published with the original illustrations by E.H Shepherd. The story tells of the mostly peaceful life of close friends Mole, Rat, Toad and Badger who do little more than potter about happily entertaining each other and messing about on the river. Drama comes from small scale but exciting adventures such as Toad recklessly behind the wheel of his car, speeding around the countryside letting rip with the horn. Or from more serious events, an exciting skirmish against the weasels and stoats in the Wild Wood. Friendship, hospitality and the pursuit of having fun propel the adventures of these four animals as they go about their lives against the watery landscape. **** Parents might also be interested in Wild Wood, Jan Needle's richly comic re-telling of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, a book which can be read as political satire but there's much more to enjoy. Though the wood is cold and unemployment bleak it only takes a sea rat with an accordion and a nip of Daisy Ferret's special brew to get the stoats and weasels partying. Wild Wood is as funny, as relevant and as pleasurable in 2014 as it was on first publication in 1981.
The classic story of Ratty, Toad and Badger – three friends who live on the riverbank – is full of adventure, excitement and wonderful characters. David Roberts’ illustrations bring a touch of sophistication to the familiar story and capture perfectly the outrageous Mr Toad’s great adventure behind the wheel of his car. **** Parents might also be interested in Wild Wood, Jan Needle's richly comic re-telling of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, a book which can be read as political satire but there's much more to enjoy. Though the wood is cold and unemployment bleak it only takes a sea rat with an accordion and a nip of Daisy Ferret's special brew to get the stoats and weasels partying. Wild Wood is as funny, as relevant and as pleasurable in 2014 as it was on first publication in 1981.
Friendship, hospitality and having fun propel the adventures of these four animals as they go about their lives against the watery landscape in this classic tale. Life on the riverbank with close-friends Mole, Rat, Toad and Badger is mostly peaceful. There is lots of entertaining as well as a great deal of just messing about on the river. Just occasionally the peace is shattered, as when Toad gets behind the wheel of his car and speeds around the countryside letting rip with the horn or, more seriously, by brief attempts to defeat the weasels and stoats in the Wild Wood. This edition is part of the Vintage Children's Classics series which is aimed at and shaped by 8-12 year olds, and the adults in their lives. It is a broad, affordable selection of books that will inspire a life-long love of reading; these stories that have secured a place in the hearts of thousands. They are all unabridged. To view all the Vintage Children's Classics titles click here. They are books to be given as gifts, and passed down the generations. In addition, story hungry children often don't want the adventure to end, so why not take a look at the fully interactive website - World of Stories - which contains lots of extra material - the backstory: with quizzes, activities and fascinating facts about the books and their authors.
Stunning is definitely the best word to describe this book that is bulging with superb illustrations that complement the moving story by Kenneth Grahame of Ratty, Moley and of course the irascible Toad. It is part of the Walker Illustrated Classics, a new series which brings together some of the best-loved stories ever told, illustrated by some of today's finest artists. These exquisitely designed books, with their magnificent words and glorious pictures, are a pleasure to read - and re-read. The classics have never looked so good. To see more Illustrated Classics click here to go to the Classics section, then click the Illustrated tab.
This is a wonderful hardback edition (part of the Oxford Children's Classics Collection), perfect as a gift or to last and last when read and reread from the nursery bookshelf. With the complete and unabridged text, 100 years on this superb story of mole and badger and their hapless friend toad still has the power to capture and inspire the reader’s imagination. Just click here to view our range of Children’s Classics. Sally Grindley, December 2010 Guest Editor, explains why she loves The Wind in the Willows: "This is my all time favourite childrens’ book. Thanks, Mum, for introducing me to it! What wonderful characters and what a fabulous plot. You can’t help but love naïve little Mole, discovering life above ground for the first time; industrious Ratty, always on the go and mad about boating; avuncular Badger, ready with a wise word and a warm fire; and, of course, incorrigible Mr Toad, who never stops getting into the most extraordinary scrapes. The backdrop to it all is the Wild Wood, with its wicked bands of stoats and weasels. Watch out, Toad!"
March 2010 Guest Editor Michael Foreman remembers: "One of our teachers, Oscar Outlaw, realised that most of the class had no books at home. He started bringing in his own books and reading to us on Friday afternoons if it was too wet for games. First he read The Wind in the Willows. And then, Treasure Island. What a treat! We looked forward to rain." LoveReading4Kids adds: An absolutely delightful tale of four animals that become the firmest of friends and beat the wretched and wicked weasels; but not before the friends have to rescue the devil-may-care Toad time and time again from his misadventures. Brian Jacques, whose love of the story shines through in a marvellous Introduction to the book, believes it possesses that quintessential English charm and fascination that children of all ages love. And as for Toad, well he’s ‘Billy Bunter, Just William and Dick Turpin with a dash of Bertie Wooster thrown in’ says Jacques. In this terrific pocket size Puffin edition there’s lots of additional material at the end of the book including an author profile, a guide to who’s who in The Wind in the Willows plus many related activities to do beyond the book. An unabridged audio is also available of this title from Puffin.
A touching classic story of a dragon who doesn’t want to do any of the frightening things dragons should do. Published in a handsome 70th anniversary edition with the original illustrations. The LoveReading Comment: This is a funny story of bravery, friendship and derring-do between a young boy and a dragon who he finds living above his home. The two become close companions but the town folk are scared and call upon St George to kill the dragon in combat. This however, proves rather tricky when the dragon simply won’t fight! First published 70 years ago, this is a timeless children’s classic from Kenneth Grahame, the author of The Wind in the Willows and beautifully illustrated by Ernest H. Shepherd who of course is synonymous with the drawings of Winnie the Pooh and of course The Wind in the Willows.
This timeless tale has never been out of print and remains one of the best loved children’s titles in English literature. Grahame’s wonderful imagination and quiet humour continue to charm children and adults alike and this edition is beautifully complemented by some stunning illustrations throughout by award-winning illustrator Robert Ingpen. Other classics illustrated by Robert Ingpen and in a wonderful gift hardback edition include, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, The Jungle Book, and Peter Pan **** Parents might also be interested in Wild Wood, Jan Needle's richly comic re-telling of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, a book which can be read as political satire but there's much more to enjoy. Though the wood is cold and unemployment bleak it only takes a sea rat with an accordion and a nip of Daisy Ferret's special brew to get the stoats and weasels partying. Wild Wood is as funny, as relevant and as pleasurable in 2014 as it was on first publication in 1981.
HarperCollins is proud to present its range of best-loved, essential classics. `There is nothing - absolutely nothing - half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.' One spring day in the idyllic English countryside, Mole, Rat, Toad and Badger embark on a series of escapades. From Ratty's exploits on the river to Toad's passion for motorcars and the invasion of Toad Hall by the stoats and weasels, these woodland friends encounter adventure at every turn. A timeless and celebrated classic, Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows has endured for nearly 100 years, and continues to delight readers of all ages.
The riverside adventures of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Mr. Toad have become a timeless classic of children's literature. In this beautiful volume, we see that charming world through the eyes of renowned artist, Grahame Baker-Smith. Brimming with exquisite artwork, this beloved story is brought to life for a whole new generation of readers.
Far from fading with time, Kenneth Grahame's classic tale of fantasy has attracted a growing audience in each generation. Rat, Mole, Badger and the preposterous Mr Toad (with his `Poop-poop-poop' road-hogging new motor-car), have brought delight to many through the years with their odd adventures on and by the river, and at the imposing residence of Toad Hall. Grahame's book was later dramatised by A. A. Milne, and became a perennial Christmas favourite, as Toad of Toad Hall. It continues to enchant and, above all perhaps, inspire great affection.
The most popular children's book ever written, lovingly illustrated by John Burningham. Kenneth Grahame began to tell the tale of the river bank on the night of his son's fourth birthday, but what started out as a short bedtime story soon grew into one of the most enjoyable series of adventures ever to be told in children's literature. The entertaining exploits of the book's four intrepid heroes - Mole, Water Rat, Badger and the incorrigible Toad - have captured the imagination of generations of children. This beautiful edition is illustrated by renowned picture book artist John Burningham, whose wonderfully evocative line drawings marry perfectly with Graham's vivid text. There are twelve glorious full-colour scenes, full of detail, to enjoy over again and again.
With 10 illustrations. According to Wikipedia: "e;Kenneth Grahame (July 20, 1859 - July 6, 1932) was a British writer, most famous for The Wind in the Willows (1908), one of the classics of children's literature. He also wrote The Reluctant Dragon, which was much later adapted into a Disney film."e;
One Spring morning, Mole abandons his spring cleaning and surfaces into the sunlight and warm grass of a great meadow. Rambling busily along the hedgerows he comes all at once to the edge of a river. Mole is entranced. Here on the river bank he meets the Water Rat. Mole stays with the Water Rat in his snug waterside home where the river laps at the sill of the window and here he meets Ratty's friends: Badger who lives in the Wild Wood and the incorrigible Toad of Toad Hall.A timeless tale of waterside Britain that has been loved by generations of children and acclaimed as a classic. The story of Mole, Ratty, Badger, and Toad and their escapades, whether messing about on the river or puttering about in Toad's shiny new car, cannot fail to enchant every listener.Many of the original cast from Alan Bennett's acclaimed National Theatre production appear in this dramatization for BBC Radio 4, including Richard Briers as Rat, Adrian Scarborough as Mole, and Terence Rigby as Albert, with Alan Bennett as the narrator.
This carefully abridged edition follows the exciting adventures of water-loving Rat, sensitive Mole, fun-loving Toad and wise Badger as they mess about in boats, get lost in the Wild Wood and battle to take back Toad Hall. Favourite characters and scenes have been reimagined with plate illustrations, presented in a sumptuous hardback design.
The Wind in the Willows is a children's novel by Kenneth Grahame, first published in 1908. Alternately slow moving and fast paced, it focuses on four anthropomorphised animals in a pastoral version of Edwardian England. The novel is notable for its mixture of mysticism, adventure, morality and camaraderie, and celebrated for its evocation of the nature of the Thames Valley. In 1908, Grahame retired from his position as secretary of the Bank of England. He moved back to Berkshire, where he had lived as a child, and spent his time by the River Thames doing much as the animal characters in his book do - as the book says, "e;simply messing about in boats"e; - and expanding the bedtime stories he had earlier told his son Alastair into a manuscript for the book. The novel was in its 31st printing when playwright A. A. Milne adapted part of it for the stage as Toad of Toad Hall in 1929. Almost a century later, it was adapted again for the stage as a musical by Julian Fellowes. In 2003, The Wind in the Willows was listed at number 16 in the BBC's survey The Big Read.
Depicting the adventures of Rat, Mole, Badger and the pretentious Mr Toad, The Wind in the Willows sees these four animals getting into all sorts of trouble as they wander along the river, through the Wild Wood and around the grand Toad Hall. Adapted for the stage by A.A. Milne as Toad of Toad Hall, and recreated for film and TV numerous times, Kenneth Grahame's tale has been an essential part of every English child's formative reading for over a century, with new generations of readers succumbing to its charm, wit and wonder.
This new hardback edition of The Wind in the Willows, the classic story loved by children and adults alike, has been created in partnership with the world-famous V&A Museum, with exquisite cover designs from their William Morris collection. Spring is in the air and Mole has found a wonderful new world. There's boating with Ratty, a feast with Badger and high jinx on the open road with that reckless ruffian, Mr Toad of Toad Hall. The four become the firmest of friends, but after Toad's latest escapade, can they join together and beat the wretched weasels?
Experience the timeless story of Toad, Rat, Mole, and Badger in a beautiful new unabridged, hardcover designed and illustrated by New York Times Bestselling author and Eisner Award winning creator David Petersen (Mouse Guard). Painstakingly illustrated over three years, this exquisite and lavish edition features both color and pen and ink illustrations throughout. Begun as a series of letters from Kenneth Grahame to his son, The Wind in the Willows is a timeless tale of animal cunning and human camaraderie. Since its first publication in 1908, generations of adults and children have cherished this world of gurgling rivers and whispering reeds, serving as home to the most lovable creatures in all literature-Rat, Mole, Badger, and the irrepressible Toad of Toad Hall; with his goggles, overcoat and love of fast cars. Follow these little adventurers through gypsy caravans, stolen sports cars, and their Wild Wood.
In this delightful tale an unnamed boy discovers that there is a dragon living in the downs above his house. But this is no ordinary dragon, this is an erudite, poetry-loving dragon. The boy and the dragon become friends in short order. Unfortunately, the villagers also discover that there is a dragon living in the downs and they send for the great dragon slayer St. George. The boy and the dragon need a plan, a plan that will save the life of this unique and delightful dragon. This edition is illustrated with whimsical dragons throughout. From the author of 'The Wind in the Willows.'
Project X Origins Graphic Texts can help children to reach higher standards in comprehension. This graphic retelling of The Wind in the Willows brings a fresh look to a well-loved classic. Life on the river bank is peaceful for Mole, Ratty and Badger until their friend Toad gets a motor car! Can Toad's friends convince him to stay out of trouble? This book also contains notes on the inside front and back covers with advice on supporting older children with their reading, ideas for follow-up activities and higher-level comprehension questions.
Follow the charming adventures of Mole, Mr. Toad, Ratty, and Badger in The Wind in the Willows. Originally published in 1908, the classic children's tale The Wind in the Willows tells the stories of four animals and their adventures together. It is celebrated for its sense of camaraderie, morality, and mysticism. With illustrations by Paul Bransom, this beautiful, vibrant clothbound hardcover is unabridged and makes a great addition to every child's library. The Knickerbocker Classics bring together the essential works of classic authors from around the world in stunning editions to be collected and enjoyed.
HarperCollins is proud to present its range of best-loved, essential classics. `There is nothing - absolutely nothing - half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.' One spring day in the idyllic English countryside, Mole, Rat, Toad and Badger embark on a series of escapades. From Ratty's exploits on the river to Toad's passion for motorcars and the invasion of Toad Hall by the stoats and weasels, these woodland friends encounter adventure at every turn. A timeless and celebrated classic, Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows has endured for nearly 100 years, and continues to delight readers of all ages.
Bring to life the classic story of The Wind in the Willows with this exquisite cut-paper gift edition illustrated by Inga Moore. Kenneth Grahame's classic children's story The Wind in the Willows is brought to life in this exquisite three-dimensional cut-paper gift edition, beautifully illustrated by the award-winning Inga Moore. Presented in a slipcase, this charming book unfolds to reveal twelve of the most famous moments in Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad's adventures along the riverbank.
Ducks love to swim and bob in the river! Babies and toddlers will get a kick out of this bouncy poem about being yourself, whether you are a cheerful duck or a happy child.
Die grandiosen Geschichten uber die Abenteuer von Maulwurf, Ratte, Kroterich und Dachs machten Kenneth Grahame weltberuhmt. Bis heute lassen sich Kinder und Erwachsene verzaubern von der anruhrenden Freundschaft der vier ungleichen Helden, die bei ihren gemeinsamen Ausflugen mit Heldenmut und Witz so manche brenzlige Situation uberstehen. Diese Ausgabe prasentiert Grahames (Grahame, Kenneth 1859 - 1932) Kinderbuchklassiker in neuer Ubersetzung.
The classic story of Ratty, Toad and Badger – three friends who live on the riverbank – is full of adventure, excitement and wonderful characters. David Roberts’ illustrations bring a touch of sophistication to the familiar story and capture perfectly the outrageous Mr Toad’s great adventure behind the wheel of his car. **** Parents might also be interested in Wild Wood, Jan Needle's richly comic re-telling of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, a book which can be read as political satire but there's much more to enjoy. Though the wood is cold and unemployment bleak it only takes a sea rat with an accordion and a nip of Daisy Ferret's special brew to get the stoats and weasels partying. Wild Wood is as funny, as relevant and as pleasurable in 2014 as it was on first publication in 1981.
Here today, up and off to somewhere else tomorrow! Toad has always been a silly sort of fellow. But when his latest obsession with motor cars - the faster the better - threatens to lead him to disaster, it is up to Toad's good friends Mole, Ratty and Badger to get him under control. Can they save Toad from prison, and his home Toad Hall from the wicked Weasels and Stoats?
Follow Toad, Rat, Badger, Mole, and their many friends as they are "e;simply messing about in boats."e; And join them as they have one adventure after another. Rich, compelling, and exciting, there's something here for the entire family.
Mr. Toad and his friendsMole, Ratty, and Mr. Badgerhave outrageous adventures in the Wild Wood, but Toad ever learn to be the responsible toad he should be?HarperPerennial Classics brings great works of literature to life in digital format, upholding the highest standards in ebook production and celebrating reading in all its forms. Look for more titles in the HarperPerennial Classics collection to build your digital library.
Meet Mole, Rat Known as Ratty to his friends, Mr. Toad, Mr. Badger, Otter,portly, the Weasels, Pan, The Wayfarer and squirrels and rabbits. Journey with them on their amazing light-hearted adventures of folly, mysticism, friendship, forgiveness, and morality. The Wind in the Willows by author Kenneth Grahame is a heartwarming children's story. It follows the lives of Mole, Water Rat, Otter, Badger, and Toad. The Wind in the Willows is full of fun and adventure. It is a timeless story of friends who will do anything for each other. This beloved classic of literature has touched the hearts of young readers for over three generations.
Meet Mole, Rat Known as Ratty to his friends, Mr. Toad, Mr. Badger, Otter,portly, the Weasels, Pan, The Wayfarer and squirrels and rabbits. Journey with them on their amazing light-hearted adventures of folly, mysticism, friendship, forgiveness, and morality. The Wind in the Willows by author Kenneth Grahame is a heartwarming children's story. It follows the lives of Mole, Water Rat, Otter, Badger, and Toad. The Wind in the Willows is full of fun and adventure. It is a timeless story of friends who will do anything for each other. This beloved classic of literature has touched the hearts of young readers for over three generations.
When Mole goes for a walk one spring day, he meets the friendly Ratty at the riverside who invites Mole to join him on his river-boat. The two become firm friends and regularly go boating together, one day ending up at the impressive Toad Hall. They decide to say hello to Toad Hall's owner, the extremely wealthy and fickle Mr Toad who has since developed an unhealthy passion for motor cars. As Mr Toad continues to waste huge amounts of money on motor cars and regularly injures himself in car crashes; Mole, Ratty and their new friend Badger decide to put Toad under house arrest to prevent him from being a danger to himself. Unfortunately, the devious Toad escapes and recklessly drives away from Toad Hall in one of his new cars. He is then arrested and it is up to Mole, Ratty and Badger to look after Toad Hall and safeguard it from the weasels, stoats and ferrets until Toad comes back.
Trajectory presents classics of world literature with 21st century features! Our original-text editions include the following visual enhancements to foster a deeper understanding of the work: Word Clouds at the start of each chapter highlight important words. Word, sentence, paragraph counts, and reading time help readers and teachers determine chapter complexity. Co-occurrence graphs depict character-to-character interactions as well character to place interactions. Sentiment indexes identify positive and negative trends in mood within each chapter. Frequency graphs help display the impact this book has had on popular culture since its original date of publication. Use Trajectory analytics to deepen comprehension, to provide a focus for discussions and writing assignments, and to engage new readers with some of the greatest stories ever told. "e;The Headswoman"e; by Kenneth Grahame is a 1898 novel about a beautiful woman who seduces men in order to execute and kill them.
What are you looking for? Adventure! Excitement! Fun! Friendship! Join in the delights and disasters on the riverbank with Mole and his new friends. With sensible Ratty, wise Badger, fun-loving Toad, and the dastardly stoats and weasles, there's never a dull moment! Oxford Children's Classics present not only the original and unabridged story of The Wind in the Willows in a stunning new edition, but also help you to discover a whole world of new adventures with a vast assortment of recommendations and activities.
The classic story of Mole, Rat, Toad, Badger and the wonderful adventures they share As spring begins to bloom across the countryside, so too does Mole's desire to leave his underground home and venture into the wilds above. His journey delivers him to the banks of a riverthe first Mole has ever seenand to the blue-and-white boat captained by Rat. Their camaraderie sparked, Mole and Rat continue into the Wild Wood, meeting up with the cantankerous Badger and the impulsive Toad. No stranger to calamity, Toad and his reckless habitsincluding a tendency toward spectacular car crasheswill get the four friends into heaps of trouble, but their steadfast loyalty to one another always sees them through.The Wind in the Willowsis a charming, unforgettable ode to friendship and one of the most cherished children's stories of all time. This ebook has been professionally proofread to ensure accuracy and readability on all devices.
Spring has finally arrived, and with it, new adventures. Friends Rat and Mole go on a river cruise or stop by Toad Hall to visit their friend Toad. Toad is a friendly fellow, but he obsesses over the latest fads. From boats to horse-drawn caravans, his adventures get bigger and bigger. When Toad discovers the shiny, fast motorcar, Mole and Rat have more on their hands than they can handle. The two team up with Badger to save their friend...but more trouble awaits them than they could possible imagine. Scottish author Kenneth Grahame wrote this tale of friendship and forgiveness, which was first published in 1908 in the UK. This is an unabridged version of the 1913 edition, with illustrations by Paul Bransom.
Since publication in 1908, The Wind in the Willows has established itself as one of the most popular children's books ever written. Rat, Toad, Mole, and Badger are emotional, vibrant, and fully realized characters with their own share of flaws and virtues. They become loyal friends and meet strange and wonderful characters along their journey. The magical fantasy starts on the river bank and goes to the heights of Toad Hall, a truly fine mansion of many secret passages. All children will delight in this story and be taken away on the wings of imagination.
The Wind in the Willows is a classic of children's literature by Kenneth Grahame. Alternately slow moving and fast paced, it focuses on four anthropomorphised animal characters in a pastoral version of England. The novel is notable for its mixture of mysticism, adventure, morality, and camaraderie and celebrated for its evocation of the nature of the Thames valley. In 1908 Grahame retired from his position as secretary of the Bank of England. He moved back to Cookham, Berkshire, where he had been brought up and spent his time by the River Thames doing much as the animal characters in his book do-namely, as one of the most famous phrases from the book says, "e;simply messing about in boats"e;-and wrote down the bed-time stories he had been telling his son Alistair.
Like his renowned countryman Lewis Carroll, British author Kenneth Grahame (1859–1932) found writing tales for children a pleasant diversion from his regular duties in the everyday world. The Wind in the Willows, his most memorable collection of stories, is today a much-loved classic of children's literature.Begun as a series of bedtime stories that Grahame, a bank executive, told his young son, this engaging fantasy recounts the whimsical adventures of a delightful company of animals — among them Mole, Ray, Badger, and Toad — all of whom possess decidedly human characteristics.This charming new version, with over 30 original illustrations by Thea Kliros, has been specially prepared for young readers and retains all the character and flavor of the original stories. Once again youngsters follow the shy but curious Mole as he sets out one spring day from his little underground home and is befriended by the extremely personable Water Rat, who introduces him to Badger, the reclusive philosopher, and to pleasure-seeking Toad of Toad Hall.Children and adults alike will fall under the charming spell of this humorous potpourri of make-believe as it paints a gently satirical picture of loyalties, weakness, and extravagant behavior.
Friendship, hospitality and having fun propel the adventures of these four animals as they go about their lives against the watery landscape in this classic tale. Life on the riverbank with close-friends Mole, Rat, Toad and Badger is mostly peaceful. There is lots of entertaining as well as a great deal of just messing about on the river. Just occasionally the peace is shattered, as when Toad gets behind the wheel of his car and speeds around the countryside letting rip with the horn or, more seriously, by brief attempts to defeat the weasels and stoats in the Wild Wood.
Friendship, hospitality and having fun propel the adventures of these four animals as they go about their lives against the watery landscape in this classic tale. Life on the riverbank with close-friends Mole, Rat, Toad and Badger is mostly peaceful. There is lots of entertaining as well as a great deal of just messing about on the river. Just occasionally the peace is shattered, as when Toad gets behind the wheel of his car and speeds around the countryside letting rip with the horn or, more seriously, by brief attempts to defeat the weasels and stoats in the Wild Wood. This edition is part of the Vintage Children's Classics series which is aimed at and shaped by 8-12 year olds, and the adults in their lives. It is a broad, affordable selection of books that will inspire a life-long love of reading; these stories that have secured a place in the hearts of thousands. They are all unabridged. To view all the Vintage Children's Classics titles click here. They are books to be given as gifts, and passed down the generations. In addition, story hungry children often don't want the adventure to end, so why not take a look at the fully interactive website - World of Stories - which contains lots of extra material - the backstory: with quizzes, activities and fascinating facts about the books and their authors.
For young dreamers, nostalgic parents, and imaginative readers of all ages, this wonderful eBook collection not only contains five of the most beloved children's books in the world but some of the most admired and enduring literature ever put to page. Each of these can be considered a ';Household Book,' as A. A. Milne so affectionately described The Wind in the Willows—books that ';everybody in the household loves, and quotes continually ever afterwards; [books which are] read aloud to every new guest.' THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Kenneth Grahame Written by Kenneth Grahame as bedtime stories for his son, The Wind in the Willows continues to delight readers today. Basing his fanciful animal characters on human archetypes, Grahame imparts a gentle, playful wisdom in his timeless tales. Few readers will be able to resist an invitation to join the Wild Wooders at Toad Hall, enjoy a quick splash in the river with Rat and Badger, or take a swerving ride with Toad in a ';borrowed' motor-car. ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND & THROUGH THE LOOKING-GLASS Lewis Carroll Conceived by a shy British don on a golden afternoon to entertain ten-year-old Alice Liddell and her sisters, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass have delighted generations of readers in more than eighty languages. ';The clue to the enduring fascination and greatness of the Alice books,' writes A. S. Byatt in her Introduction, ';lies in language. It is play, and word-play, and its endless intriguing puzzles continue to reveal themselves long after we have ceased to be children.' PETER PAN J. M. Barrie Set in London and and the magical Neverland, J. M. Barrie's tale of a boy who refuses to grow up has delighted generations of readers. In this novel, which Barrie adapted from his 1904 play, Peter introduces Wendy, Michael, and John Darling to the fairy Tinker Bell and the lost boys. Together, they do battle with Captain Hook and his fierce band of pirates. THE THREE MUSKETEERS Alexandre Dumas First published in 1844, Alexandre Dumas's swashbuckling epic chronicles the adventures of D'Artagnan, a gallant young nobleman who journeys to Paris in 1625 hoping to join the ranks of the musketeers guarding Louis XIII. He soon finds himself fighting alongside three heroic comrades—Athos, Porthos, and Aramis—who seek to uphold the honor of the king by foiling the wicked plots of Cardinal Richelieu and the beautiful spy ';Milady.'
Three timeless classics: The Jungle Book, Treasure Island and The Wind in the Willows all packaged together in a beautiful slipcased collection. Each of these children's favourites is complete and unabridged and illustrated by award-winning artist, Robert Ingpen. Publication coincides with Robert Ingpen’s 75th birthday.
HarperCollins is proud to present its new range of best-loved, essential classics. `There is nothing - absolutely nothing - half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.' A timeless and celebrated children's classic, Grahame's The Wind in the Willows has delighted for nearly 100 years. In the idyllic English countryside, Mole, Badger, Rat and Toad encounter adventure at every turn - whether it's gipsy caravans, Rat's love for the river, or Toads passion for motorcars, the loveable friends and their escapades continue to delight children and adults alike.
Join Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad on more adventures read by the wonderful Richard Briers.Join Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad on more adventures read by the wonderful Richard Briers.
Here is a collection of four delightful dragon stories by two master writers for children. The Reluctant Dragon is the best known, but the others are equally appealing. In The Reluctant Dragon , a boy discovers a dragon in a nearby cave. The villagers want to send for St George to slay him, but he is a friendly dragon and doesn't want to fight! In The Island of Nine Whirlpools , a princess is imprisoned and a suitor has to get past the dragon in order to marry her. In The Fiery Dragon , Princess Sabrinetta is kept in a dragon-proof tower, but a fiery dragon is roaming the neighbourhood. Finally, in The Last Dragon , the King of Cornwall's daughter doesn't want to be tied to a rock awaiting a prince to rescue her from the clutches of a dragon. In any case, there is only one dragon left alive. This title is presented with lively music and even the occasional amusing sound effect.
Stunning is definitely the best word to describe this book that is bulging with superb illustrations that complement the moving story by Kenneth Grahame of Ratty, Moley and of course the irascible Toad. It is part of the Walker Illustrated Classics, a new series which brings together some of the best-loved stories ever told, illustrated by some of today's finest artists. These exquisitely designed books, with their magnificent words and glorious pictures, are a pleasure to read - and re-read. The classics have never looked so good. To see more Illustrated Classics click here to go to the Classics section, then click the Illustrated tab.
This is a wonderful hardback edition (part of the Oxford Children's Classics Collection), perfect as a gift or to last and last when read and reread from the nursery bookshelf. With the complete and unabridged text, 100 years on this superb story of mole and badger and their hapless friend toad still has the power to capture and inspire the reader’s imagination. Just click here to view our range of Children’s Classics. Sally Grindley, December 2010 Guest Editor, explains why she loves The Wind in the Willows: "This is my all time favourite childrens’ book. Thanks, Mum, for introducing me to it! What wonderful characters and what a fabulous plot. You can’t help but love naïve little Mole, discovering life above ground for the first time; industrious Ratty, always on the go and mad about boating; avuncular Badger, ready with a wise word and a warm fire; and, of course, incorrigible Mr Toad, who never stops getting into the most extraordinary scrapes. The backdrop to it all is the Wild Wood, with its wicked bands of stoats and weasels. Watch out, Toad!"
The much-loved classic tales of Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad. When Mole goes boating with Ratty instead of doing his spring-cleaning, he discovers a whole new world. As well as adventures on the river and in the Wild Wood, there are high jinks on the open road with that reckless ruffian, Mr Toad of Toad Hall. Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad become the firmest of friends, but after Toad's latest escapade, can they join together and beat the wretched weasels once and for all? The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame is one of the twelve wonderful classic stories being relaunched in Puffin Classics in March 2008.
March 2010 Guest Editor Michael Foreman remembers: "One of our teachers, Oscar Outlaw, realised that most of the class had no books at home. He started bringing in his own books and reading to us on Friday afternoons if it was too wet for games. First he read The Wind in the Willows. And then, Treasure Island. What a treat! We looked forward to rain." LoveReading4Kids adds: An absolutely delightful tale of four animals that become the firmest of friends and beat the wretched and wicked weasels; but not before the friends have to rescue the devil-may-care Toad time and time again from his misadventures. Brian Jacques, whose love of the story shines through in a marvellous Introduction to the book, believes it possesses that quintessential English charm and fascination that children of all ages love. And as for Toad, well he’s ‘Billy Bunter, Just William and Dick Turpin with a dash of Bertie Wooster thrown in’ says Jacques. In this terrific pocket size Puffin edition there’s lots of additional material at the end of the book including an author profile, a guide to who’s who in The Wind in the Willows plus many related activities to do beyond the book. An unabridged audio is also available of this title from Puffin.
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame is an English classic loved by adults and children alike. ***Now in a beautiful cloth-bound hardback edition - a perfect gift for young readers.*** Spend a season on the river bank and take a walk on the wild side . . . Spring is in the air and Mole has found a wonderful new world. There's boating with Ratty, a feast with Badger and high jinx on the open road with that reckless ruffian, Mr Toad of Toad Hall. The four become the firmest of friends, but after Toad's latest escapade, can they join together and beat the wretched weasels? PLUS A behind-the-scenes journey, including author profile, a guide to who's who, activities and more . . .
There's nothing--absolutely nothing--half so much worth doing as messing about in boats. One of the all-time great animal stories. Kenneth Grahame's classic children's book has delighted generations. The Wild Wood seems a terrifying place to Mole, until he finds it's full of friends - Kind, sleepy Badger; brave and lively Ratty; and the irresponsible Mr Toad, famous for his wealth and his car smashes. But there are also the sinister weasels and stoats, and they capture Toad Hall when Mr Toad is in jail. How will he escape? And can the friends fight together to save Toad Hall? Kenneth Grahame's classic The Wind in the Willows needs no introduction. Entertaining adults and children alike for over a hundred years, characters such as Ratty, Mole, Badger and, of course, the irrepressible Mr Toad have influenced children's animal stories ever since. Fun, exciting, whimsical and dangerous at times, The Wind in the Willows can't help but spark a child's imagination. In this Egmont edition, Kenneth Grahame's animal book, is made all the more beautiful and enthralling thanks to the original illustrations by E. H. Shepard, the man who also drew Winnie-the-Pooh. Kenneth Grahame was born in 1859. He told his son stories about water rats and moles which became The Wind in the Willows, the book for which he is best known. He died in 1932.
A touching classic story of a dragon who doesn’t want to do any of the frightening things dragons should do. Published in a handsome 70th anniversary edition with the original illustrations. The LoveReading Comment: This is a funny story of bravery, friendship and derring-do between a young boy and a dragon who he finds living above his home. The two become close companions but the town folk are scared and call upon St George to kill the dragon in combat. This however, proves rather tricky when the dragon simply won’t fight! First published 70 years ago, this is a timeless children’s classic from Kenneth Grahame, the author of The Wind in the Willows and beautifully illustrated by Ernest H. Shepherd who of course is synonymous with the drawings of Winnie the Pooh and of course The Wind in the Willows.
This hardcover edition of the classic tale of THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS has been read and loved by children for generations. Start a new tradition of reading this timeless tale in your home today!Fully illustrated in color, bringing each tale to lifeFilled with humor, adventure and imagination for children of all agesGreat first-time reading for children as well as reading again for parents and grandparentsBeautiful story and unforgettable characters
This timeless tale has never been out of print and remains one of the best loved children’s titles in English literature. Grahame’s wonderful imagination and quiet humour continue to charm children and adults alike and this edition is beautifully complemented by some stunning illustrations throughout by award-winning illustrator Robert Ingpen. Other classics illustrated by Robert Ingpen and in a wonderful gift hardback edition include, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, The Jungle Book, and Peter Pan **** Parents might also be interested in Wild Wood, Jan Needle's richly comic re-telling of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, a book which can be read as political satire but there's much more to enjoy. Though the wood is cold and unemployment bleak it only takes a sea rat with an accordion and a nip of Daisy Ferret's special brew to get the stoats and weasels partying. Wild Wood is as funny, as relevant and as pleasurable in 2014 as it was on first publication in 1981.
Since 1903, the escapades of Mole, his friend Water Rat, shy Badger and Toad of Toad Hall have delighted children and adults, too. Follow the winning foursome through the seasons as they sail the river, get lost in the Wild Wood, take off on a merry adventure in Toad's colourful carriage and rescue Toad Hall from a band of nasty marauding weasels. Abridged for easier reading and carefully rewritten, with Classic Starts[trademark] , young readers can experience the wonder of timeless stories from an early age.
Richard Briers, Adrian Scarborough and Terence Rigby star in this full-cast dramatisation, narrated by Alan Bennett.When Mole abandons his spring cleaning one morning, he surfaces into the sunlight and encounters the Water Rat. Mole stays with Ratty in his snug waterside home, and soon he meets Ratty's friends: Badger, who lives in the Wild Wood, and the incorrigible Toad of Toad Hall. This timeless tale of waterside Britain has been loved by generations of children and acclaimed as a classic. The story of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad and their escapades never fails to enchant. Many of the original cast from Alan Bennett's acclaimed National Theatre production appear in this Radio 4 dramatisation, including Richard Briers as Rat, Adrian Scarborough as Mole and Terence Rigby as Albert - with Alan Bennett as the narrator.
The Wind in the Willows is a book for those ';who keep the spirit of youth alive in them; of life, sunshine, running water, woodlands, dusty roads, winter firesides.' So wrote Kenneth Grahame of his timeless tale of Rat, Mole, Badger, and Toad, in their lyrical world of gurgling rivers and whispering reeds, a world which is both beautiful and benevolently ordered. But it is also a world threatened by dark forces'the Terror of the Wild Wood' with its ';wicked little faces' and ';glances of malice and hatred'and defended by the mysterious Piper at the Gates of Dawn.In the end, Grahame triumphantly succeeds in conveying his most precious theme: the miracle of loyalty and friendship. This tale of four friends and their adventures is a timeless classic that will inspire and delight listeners of all ages.
When a dragon is discovered up on the Downs, the Boy is not in the least surprised. He's always known that cave was a dragon cave-it seems only right for a dragon to be living in it.The Boy decides to pay a visit to the cave, and he thinks he knows just what to expect. But this particular dragon is not a bit like the ones in fairy tales.
Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows is a treasure of British Literature which has already been brought to screen and now has its first ever comic book interpretation. His colourful characters, his inimitable madness and his love of nature shine through on every page and have fascinated countless readers of all ages...amongst whom was Michel Plessix, the author of this tender and lively adaptation.
Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows is a treasure of British Literature which has already been brought to screen and now has its first ever comic book interpretation. His colourful characters, his inimitable madness and his love of nature shine through on every page and have fascinated countless readers of all ages...amongst whom was Michel Plessix, the author of this tender and lively adaptation.
Kenneth Graham's The Wind in the Willows is one of the most celebrated works of literature for children, and this Penguin Classics edition contains notes and an introduction by Gillian Avery. Meek little Mole, wilful Ratty, Badger the perennial bachelor, and petulant, boastful Toad: over one hundred years since their first appearance in 1908, they've become emblematic archetypes of eccentricity, folly and friendship. And their misadventures - in gypsy caravans, stolen sports cars, and their beloved Wild Wood - continue to capture readers' imaginations and warm their hearts long after they grow up. Begun as a series of letters from Kenneth Grahame to his son, The Wind in the Willows is a timeless tale of animal cunning and human camaraderie. This Penguin Classics edition features an appendix of the letters in which Grahame first related the exploits of Toad, and new introduction by children's literature historian Gillian Avery. Kenneth Grahame (1859-1932) was an English bank official, writer, author of The Wind in the Willows (1908), set in the idyllic English countryside. The work established Grahame's international reputation as a writer of children's books and has deeply influenced fantasy literature. If you enjoyed The Wind in the Willows, you might enjoy JM Barrie's Peter Pan, also available in Penguin Classics. 'A charming book' Terry Jones
Toad, Rat, Mole, Badger and the other appealing characters in The Wind in the Willows got their start a century ago as the stars of bedtime stories for the author's young son. Their adventures have delighted children of all generations for nearly a century. This attractive new edition of the treasured classic is sure to be cherished for years to come. Sterling Children's Classics is a new series presenting timeless classic works of fiction in handsome hardback volumes at an unbelievable price. Parents, teachers, librarians and of course young readers will welcome these beautiful, unabridged editions of evergreen children's favourites. Each beautiful book features: original full colour dust jacket artwork; three-piece cloth binding; the highest quality paper; detailed spot illustrations; and a ribbon page marker. It is beautiful classic literature at a classic price!
Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows is a treasure of British Literature which has already been brought to screen and now has its first ever comic book interpretation. His colourful characters, his inimitable madness and his love of nature shine through on every page and have fascinated countless readers of all ages...amongst whom was Michel Plessix, the author of this tender and lively adaptation.
When the Water Rat invites the unassuming Mole to spend his first day ever in a boat on the river, and wise Badger comes along for the ride as well, so begins a marvellous season of adventure for the three friends. Mr Toad (he of Toad Hall) completes a happy foursome, but his tendency to get into hot water leads him into some rather hair-raising scrapes of his own.From an idyllic riverside picnic to a snowy encounter in the Wild Wood, and from poop-pooping in Toad's shiny new motor car to battling the massed ranks of Stoats, Weasels, and Ferrets in a battle for Toad Hall, there's never a dull moment when they are all together! In his own inimitable style, Alan Bennett gives voice to each and every character in Kenneth Grahame's beguiling novel.
Shy Mole, who dreams of an exciting new life by the endless River. Ratty, a friendly, unflappable, altogether civilized chap. Gruff Badger, who hates absolutely Everyone--except all his friend. And Toad. Ohh, Toad--glorious, crazy, doomed Toad: Toad the pampered braggart, Toad the desperate thief, Toad the haunted fugitive and the hero of his own silly dreams.From buzzing summer days to winter's killing cold, from gentle picnics to deeds of might and daring, from wild escapes to meeting with a god...Everyone should have a life like this--And friends like these.At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
The classic tales of the riverbank featuring the adventures of Ratty, Mole, Badger and their irrepressible but conceited friend, Toad of Toad Hall.
'There is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.' When the Water Rat invites the unassuming Mole to spend his first day ever in a boat on the river, and wise Badger comes along for the ride as well, so begins a marvellous season of adventure for the three friends. Mr Toad (he of Toad Hall) completes a happy foursome, but his tendency to get into hot water leads him into some rather hair-raising scrapes of his own. From an idyllic riverside picnic to a snowy encounter in the Wild Woods, and from poop-pooping in Toad's shiny new motor car to fighting against the massed ranks of Stoats, Weasels and Ferrets in a battle for Toad Hall, there's never a dull moment when they are all together! In his own inimitable style, Alan Bennett gives voice to each and every character in Kenneth Grahame's beguiling novel. 3 CDs. 3 hrs.
In a beautiful single volume, Inga Moore's magical illustrations bring Kenneth Grahame's much-loved classic to life for a new generation of readers. Kenneth Grahame's classic children's stories, which depict the adventures of the amiable Mole and the Water Rat and the comic misadventures of the wayward Toad, are collected in this beautiful volume. Carefully abridged by the artist herself, this version of the beloved stories is instantly accessible to a young picture book readership.
The tales of Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad. When Mole goes boating with the Water Rat instead of spring-cleaning, he discovers a new world. As well as the river and the Wild Wood, there is Toad's craze for fast travel which leads him and his friends on a whirl of trains, barges, gipsy caravans and motor cars and even into battle.
Spring is in the air and Mole has found a wonderful new world. There's boating with Ratty, a feast with Badger and high jinx on the open road with that reckless ruffian Mr Toad of Toad Hall. the four become the firmest of friends, but after Toad's latest escapade, can they join together and beat the wretched weasels?
This classic of the English countryside, . first published in 1908, is a favourite with readers of all ages. As the late Margery Fisher wrote, 'Adults are sadly aware of the figure of Grahame himself, languishing in a city office and longing for the river: children respond to the fun, the anarchy of Toad and the entrancing detail as Grahame's son Alastair must have done when he listened to the bedside stories that became a book. ' The author invited Arthur Rackham to illustrate his book, but Rackham said he was too busy - a decision he was happily able to reconsider in 1936 when he was approached by the American publisher of the Limited Editions Club. The project, which he carried out with love and great care for the authenticity of detail, was his last: the drawings appeared first in the USA in 1939 and in Britian in 1950.
Illustrated by Arthur Rackham. Far from fading with time, Kenneth Grahame's classic tale of fantasy has attracted a growing audience in each generation. Rat, Mole, Badger and the preposterous Mr Toad, have brought delight to many through the years with their odd adventures on and by the river, and at the imposing residence of Toad Hall.
Far from fading with time, Kenneth Grahame's classic tale of fantasy has attracted a growing audience in each generation. Rat, Mole, Badger and the preposterous Mr Toad (with his `Poop-poop-poop' road-hogging new motor-car), have brought delight to many through the years with their odd adventures on and by the river, and at the imposing residence of Toad Hall. Grahame's book was later dramatised by A. A. Milne, and became a perennial Christmas favourite, as Toad of Toad Hall. It continues to enchant and, above all perhaps, inspire great affection.
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