Books

Second edition, printed in the same month as the first edition and in identical format. 8vo. Original blue-green cloth with gilt illustration on the spine and upper cover. Top edge gilt. Author's presentation copy, inscribed on the half-title, "Austin M. Purves / with greeting, + all the good wishes of the season, from Kenneth Grahame, Christmas 1908" A beautiful, fine copy, bright and crisp and internally perfect. A superb copy. Striking black and white frontispiece by Graham Robertson. Austin Montgomery Purves was a Philadelphia based businessman, associated with the Pennsylvania Salt Manufacturing Company for more than thirty years. Purves had a keen interest in grand opera as well as art and literature and sought to move in artistic circles, counting Maxfield Parrish, Jessie Wilcox Smith and Arthur Quiller-Couch amongst his friends. They met the Grahames' at Fowey in 1907, "while the Grahame's were at Fowey in May and June 1907, they made the acquaintance of an American family also on holiday there - Mr and Mrs Austin Purves of Philadelphia, and their five sons. Kenneth actually stood godfather to Pierre, the youngest, at his Fowey christening. Grahame and Austin Purves continued to correspond regularly until the latter's death in 1915." - Peter Green (Kenneth Grahame A Study of His Life, Work and Times) Purves sought to help Grahame by writing a favourable review of the American edition Wind in the Willows for an American magazine. In a letter to Purves of November 1908, Grahame wrote, "I'm most awfully obliged to you for the solid work you are putting in on behalf of 'the W. in the W.' Your review was perfectly charming, & is bound to be most helpful. That the book has given you all personal pleasure is of course very good for me to think of." Presentation copies of The Wind in the Willows are decidedly rare.

"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.