Books

Centenary Edition. 266 pp. Quarto (33cm X 25cm). Quarter vellum binding blocked in 22-carat gold with vellum tips and Oxford paper sides blocked in three metallic foils. Hand bound by The Fine Book Bindery, Wellingborough, Northants. Gilt top edge. Illustrated endpaper maps printed letterpress on Hahnem�hle Bugra Butten by the Logan Press, Wellingborough, Northants. A signed and numbered hand-printed sepia copperplate etching tipped in one of the coloured front free end papers. The limited edition etching has been hand printed by New Leaf Editions, Vancouver, Canada, on Somerset velvet buff 100% cotton mould-made paper. An original full colour plate by Van Sandwyk tipped in as a frontispiece. Roughly 100 illustrations and 16 tipped-in colour plates throughout text. The plates have been printed on Hello matt art paper by Beacon Press, Uckfield, Sussex. Text composed in Founder's Caslon types at The Folio Society and printed on Cordier Wove paper by T.J. International, Padstow, Cornwall. This edition follows the original 1908 Methuen and Co text. Presented in a dark green cloth-bound clamshell case with illustrated and gilt lettered label on spine. Copy number 822 out of a limited printing of 1000 copies. A truly beautiful item in fine condition. Charles Van Sandwyk's illustrations have been compared favourably to Ernest Shepard's and Arthur Rackham's illustrations of Kenneth Grahame's classic work. Van Sandwyk's works hang in the National Library of Canada and his other award-winning books include the Parade to Paradise, Sketches from the Dream Island of Birds and How to See Fairies. Signed by Van Sandwyk below hand printed etching. An exquisite copy.

"The Wind in the Willows" by Kenneth Grahame is a classic children's novel published in 1908, capturing the adventures of anthropomorphic animals living along the riverbank. The story follows the lives of four main characters: Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger, as they navigate the idyllic English countryside, facing various challenges and learning important life lessons along the way. The narrative begins with Mole, a gentle and timid creature, growing tired of his spring cleaning and venturing outside his burrow for the first time. He meets Rat, a water-loving, wise, and adventurous creature, who introduces him to the joys of the river. Mole is immediately enchanted by Rat's way of life and the beauty of the riverbank. Together, Mole and Rat embark on numerous adventures, exploring the river and surrounding countryside. They encounter various characters, both friendly and hostile, including Otter, Badger, and the eccentric Toad. Throughout their escapades, the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the appreciation of nature are prominent. Toad, the wealthy and impulsive aristocrat, is a central figure whose reckless behavior often leads to trouble for himself and his friends. He becomes obsessed with the latest fads and crazes, including motorcars, which he drives recklessly and eventually gets imprisoned for. Toad's friends, especially Rat and Mole, try to help him overcome his vices and regain control of his life. Badger, the wise and reclusive elder of the group, provides guidance and support to the other characters, especially during times of crisis. His burrow serves as a sanctuary and a place of wisdom where the friends gather for counsel and companionship. As the story progresses, the friends face various challenges, including encounters with menacing weasels and stoats who threaten their peaceful way of life. Through courage, resourcefulness, and teamwork, they overcome these obstacles and emerge stronger as a community. The novel is not just a series of adventures but also a celebration of the English countryside and the simple pleasures of life. Grahame's vivid descriptions of the natural world evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder, inviting readers to appreciate the beauty of the landscapes and the joys of companionship. Ultimately, "The Wind in the Willows" is a timeless tale that emphasizes the importance of friendship, loyalty, and the enduring bond between individuals who share a love for nature and adventure. It continues to captivate readers of all ages with its charming characters, enchanting settings, and timeless themes.