--------- 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, "simply messing about in boats" - and expanding the bedtime stories he had earlier told his son Alistair 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. In 2003, The Wind in the Willows was listed at number 16 in the BBC's survey The Big Read. A wonderful story about individuality, friendship, nature and life. Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad are a pure delight through their numerous escapades involving motor car envy, messing about in boats, picnic pleasures and untimely snow storms. Set in the English country lanes, woods and riverbanks. It is a beautifully written little gem. This is an exciting children's story which has enough depth to be enjoyed by adults also. It truly showcases an author who has a sensitive appreciation of both the rhythms of the natural world and the foibles of humanity. Scroll Up and Get Your Copy!