The Wind in the Willows

by Kenneth Grahame
The Wind in the Willows cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Children's Fiction
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £3.99–£8.99 Hardback • £8.99–£25.00 CD-Audio • £10.99
Bookshop
Format • £6.64–£18.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 29
  • Added: 2025-08-10
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780735842953
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2017-11-07
  • Formats: 922
  • Reviews: 4

The Wind in the Willows follows the escapades of four animal friends—Toad, Mole, Rat, and Badger—as they explore the joys and challenges of life along a river in the English countryside. Their adventures are filled with camaraderie, humor, and a deep appreciation for nature. The story captures the simplicity and beauty of rural life, with themes of friendship, curiosity, and the occasional mishap. Toad's obsession with a motorcar, Mole's love for comfort, Rat's passion for boating, and Badger's wisdom all contribute to a tale that has delighted readers of all ages.

Reviews
Goodreads · A.A. Milne · 2025-10-05
delightful 4.50

The story is lighthearted and whimsical, with occasional mystical elements. It is a delightful tale that has stood the test of time.

A.A. Milne, a well-known fan of The Wind in the Willows, highlights the lighthearted and whimsical nature of the story. They appreciate the occasional mystical elements that add depth to the narrative. Milne finds the story to be a delightful and timeless tale that continues to captivate readers across generations. The characters and their adventures are charmingly portrayed, making it a beloved classic.

Quick quotes

    Milne's comments may seem overly grave, especially to those familiar with Grahame's lighthearted, whimsical, occasionally mystical, story of Mole and Water Rat.

    It is a delightful tale that has stood the test of time.

    The characters and their adventures are charmingly portrayed.

Fantasy Book Review · Werty · 2025-09-03
fabulous 5.00

The book is praised as a fabulous classic that has not lost its appeal over time. The review emphasizes the story's enduring magic and the strong connection readers feel with its characters and setting.

Werty from Poland rates The Wind in the Willows very highly, expressing enthusiasm for how well the book has stood the test of time. The review points out that the narrative’s combination of whimsy, adventure, and reflection on friendship and home creates a magical reading experience. The characters are seen as vividly memorable and relatable, contributing to the story’s charm and emotional depth. This perspective highlights the book’s ability to enchant readers and maintain relevance well beyond its original publication era.

Quick quotes

    Fabulous classic that remains enchanting after all these years.

    The characters and setting create a magical, immersive world.

    A timeless story full of warmth, adventure, and friendship.

classicbookclub.co.uk · 2025-09-03
nostalgic 4.50

The reviewer expresses delight in rediscovering the book through an audiobook format, emphasizing the story’s timeless appeal and emotional resonance. They admire the character development and the nostalgic quality of the narrative.

This review highlights the joy of revisiting The Wind in the Willows after many years, particularly appreciating the audiobook format which brings the story vividly to life. The reviewer finds the characters endearing and the story emotionally engaging, noting that the novel’s themes of friendship and adventure remain relevant and touching. The nostalgic tone suggests that the book not only entertains but also evokes warm memories and emotions, reinforcing its status as a beloved classic. This perspective underscores the book’s lasting impact across generations.

Quick quotes

    Completely captivated by the timeless charm of this story.

    The characters are wonderfully endearing and richly drawn.

    A nostalgic journey that brings warmth and joy to the listener.

The Bookbag · Sue Magee · 2025-09-03
charming 4.00

The book is appreciated for its enduring charm and the quality of its storytelling, with a focus on friendship and adventure. The review highlights the story's ability to engage readers of various ages and praises Robert Ingpen's illustrations.

Sue Magee values the timeless nature of the story, noting how it captivates readers by combining elements of friendship, adventure, and the beauty of the English countryside. She appreciates the balance between the light-hearted escapades and underlying moral lessons, such as humility and loyalty. Additionally, the artwork by Robert Ingpen is seen as a wonderful complement that enhances the reader’s experience, making the book appealing not just as a story but also as a visual delight. The review reflects a strong fondness for the book's capacity to entertain while conveying meaningful themes.

Quick quotes

    An enduring classic that captures the spirit of friendship and adventure.

    Robert Ingpen’s illustrations beautifully complement the text.

    A story that appeals to readers both young and old with its charm and warmth.

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