London: Methuen and Co., 1908. First edition. A Very Good+ copy of the book in the publisher's original green cloth binding, stamped in gilt. Minor wear at the spine ends, short one inch split to rear inner hinge, faint ghost from removed article on front free end paper, but generally in excellent condition internally. In a supplied, early-issue jacket with the 7/6 net price on the front panel. Spine a bit toned and minor wear at the extremities, but otherwise a handsome example.

The Wind in the Willows, Grahame's famed children's novel, was first published in 1908 and introduces the beloved Mr. Toad, Rat, Badger, and Mole. Grahame began writing the book in his late forties after leaving his position as Secretary of the Bank of England. Much of the plot of The Wind in the Willows had its origins both in the bedtime stories Grahame had invented to tell his own son, and in Grahame’s childhood experiences in Berkshire county. The book might not have been published if not for the efforts of President Theodore Roosevelt, who lobbied Methuen to release it. While reviews were mixed, the book became a classic – and would be adapted by A.A. Milne into the well known play Toad of Toad Hall in1929.

“The Wind in the Willows is a worthy companion to The Golden Age and Dream Days. It is whimsical, fascinating by its apparent seriousness and that sense of underlying poetry which Mr. Grahame somehow manages to convey through all his nonsense” (contemporary New York Times review). Very Good + in Very Good + dust jacket. (Item #6868)