The Wind in the Willows

Country life, a river, boating, home, leisure, the wild, a divine encounter, adventure, foolishness, imprisonment, a daring escape, and a great tussle. These are just a small sample of what is found in this great book about four animal heroes: a river rat, a mole, a badger, and a toad.

It’s difficult to convey the pleasure, at times, stirring sense of beauty and joy that arose while reading Kenneth Grahame’s story. One is made to feel the significance of nature, leisure, friendship, tradition, one’s property, home, history, chivalry, and courage. There’s the comforting river that dominates their world. A happy friendship between the Rat and Mole. The fearsome and serious badger. The pleasures of summer and late-night fireside conversations.

Seasons of calm and pleasure are broken up by Mr. Toad’s adventures and self-conceit. But he is entirely humorous as he manages, or rather fails to manage, his estate, wasting his resources on motor cars and other obsessions. His friends try to make him settle down and live honorably, but seem to be thwarted by Toad’s indomitable spirit and visions of grandeur. Trials, tribulations, and narrow escapes await.

This is the kind of classic story that entertains and enlightens young and old alike. It can be read with benefit more than once. Weighty matters confront readers in entertaining ways: the effect of good company, the danger of discontendedness, the importance of preparation, the value of wisdom, the peace and joy of purpose fulfilled, the achievement of civilization, and so much more.

A highly recommended book for reading to your students.

Lastly, the stop-motion animated films are quite good, though recommend reading the book first. Amazon hosts the film version of the book, and others in the series expand the story.