The Wind In the Willows

The Wind in the Willows is a classic children's book by Kenneth Grahame, published in 1908. The story follows the adventures of four animal friends - Mole, Rat, Badger, and Toad - as they explore the English countryside, battle against weasels and stoats, and learn about the value of friendship, loyalty, and the joys of a simple life. Through their adventures, the characters discover the importance of home and the pleasures of a peaceful existence. With its charming characters, vivid descriptions of nature, and timeless themes, The Wind in the Willows remains a beloved classic today.

Methuen and Company published the First UK Edition, First Printing hardcover in 1908, London. The edition is bound in green-blue cloth boards with intricate gold gilt illustrations and lettering. The first edition dust wrapper can be identified by the publisher’s printed price of 6’- on the front panel on peach-tan paper with black inked illustration. 

Methuen and Company published the First Illustrated Edition hardcover in 1931, London. The illustrated edition was made in a set of 200 copies signed by both Grahame and Shepard, printed on handmade paper. Grahame's children's classic was originally published in 1908 with only a frontispiece for an illustration. Although the work was subsequently published with illustrations by several artists, it was E. H. Shepard who brought the narrative to life with his evocative line drawings

The Folio Society published a Limited Edition, Special Centenary Edition hardcover in 2008, London. The book is bound in quarter vellum with gold gilt on the cover and spine. Each copy contains a limitation spread with a tipped-in etching, hand-printed by Charles Van Sandwyk containing 16 coloured plates with gold detailing. This particular edition is often accompanied by a light green cloth-bound solander box with gilt lettered title label.

Methuen and Company published a First Edition Thus, Limited Edition hardcover in 1971, London. The edition is bound in green boards with 5 raided bands and titles in gilt on the spine. The front cover has a gilt illustration of the characters. Often accompanying this copy is the publisher’s printed slipcase. 

Limited Editions Club published a Limited US Edition hardcover in 1940, New York. The edition is bound in cream cloth patterned boards with gold gilt.