Classic Starts®: The Wind in the Willows

Kenneth Grahame (March 8, 1859–July 6, 1932) was a British writer most famous for The Wind in the Willows (1908), one of the classics of children’s literature. Grahame’s journey as a writer commenced in 1879 when he began crafting tales as an escape from the daily grind of his job at the Bank of England. Notably, The Wind in the Willows originated as a bedtime story for his cherished son, Alastair. Grahame’s enchanting narrative expanded over time, evolving through heartfelt letters to his son. Since its publication, the classic children’s book has remained a perennial favorite, never fading from the pages of literary history.

Robert Ingpen is an Australian illustrator and writer whose extraordinary contributions to children’s literature were honored with the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1986, a testament to his exceptional talent and lasting impact. More recently, his illustrious career received further recognition with the distinguished Membership of the Order of Australia, celebrating his profound influence on the world of illustrated classics and literature for children.