The Wind in the Willows is a classic book. President Roosevelt loved it so much that he made a special request to meet the author when he visited England.

  It was written by Kenneth Grahame.

  He studied well in Oxford and wanted to go to Oxford University. He could pass the entrance exams but he couldn't go there because no one would supply the funds to support him. His mother died of disease when he was 5 yeas old.  His father wasn't capable of looking after the four children. Besides, he was addicted to drinking.

  For some time Kenneth lived with his Grandma in a village. There he acquired a lifelong love for the riverbank.

  However, his formal guardian was his uncle and he was asked to work in the Bank of England instead of going to study in Oxford Unversity.

  But Kenneth kept writing essays, stories and books.

  Later Kenneth had a habit of making up stories  for his little son. The boy particularly loved the stories about Toad, Ratty and Mole, who became the main characters in this masterpiece, The Wind in the Willows.

  It is about adventures and growth. The main roles are animals but they speak and act like human beings. They spent time along the river, through the Wild Wood, and around the grand Toad Hall. They enjoyed the sceneries, had fun, shared their friendship and fighted for what they want.

  When I was reading it, I think of the qualities of myself and of people around me. In addition to the interesting stories, I appreciate the values of the author. For instance, to be considerate, honest and modest.

  By the way, I read a Chinese version of a famous book named Counselling for Toads: A Psychological Adventure（1997）, which was first published 89 years after The Wind in the Willows（1908）, based on the stories of Toad.  Both books are classic. So you can see how influencial this book is.

  The Wind in the Willows was recreated for film and TV numerous times. The book has been an essential part of every English child's formative reading over a centuty.

  Enjoy reading it.