Wind in the Willows - Sterling Illustrated Classics
Robert Ingpen's illustrated edition of Wind In the Willows is my favorite version of this classic. The art is a soothing, rich compliment to the tone of Kenneth Grahame's text. Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad have never been rendered more dear in my opinion. The art charmingly blends modern and past sensibilities together in a seamless natural way. I remember struggling with the text a bit as an elementary school student. Re-reading it as an adult was so pleasurable as the images kept immersing me in the lush country landscapes and cozy underground homes of the creatures. This is such a cozy story for the coldest time of year - wonderful to read under blankets with hot tea and a cat or kiddo to curl up with.