The Wind in the Willows

Rating:
Summary: A Beautiful Book
Review: I bought a similar Inga Moore version of this book for my son and we love it. The text has been "sensitively abridged" to make it appropriate for young children and the result is a delightful story that brings small animals to vivid life. Inga Moore's illustrations are what drew me to this book. They are wonderfully detailed and evocative of the beauty of the Thames Valley.

Rating:
Summary: The Wind in the Willows
Review: This was probably one of my most favorite books when I was young. I remember my mother reading it to me and how wonderfully Mr. Grahame captured the countryside and the wonderful characters. All memorable!
But now we come to this one. A totally beautifully illustrated rendition it is (though it really is hard in my mind to beat Ernest H. Shepard's wonderful Rat, Badger, Toad and all!). The reason for the 1 star is two fold. One, it's an abridged version. Yes, I know it's for consumption by younger folk. I was, however, maybe 4 or 5 when it was first read to me. Why do we continue to sell our children short? The biggest reason though for the poor rating is that several chapters have been left out. The one I have always loved the best is "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn." A beautiful tale of heroism, compassion, and love. It's not in this edition. An outrage! I will NOT buy this book and I will certainly NOT recommend it to others!