The Wind in the Willows

(NBM, 1999)
™ and © NBM

All four volumes of this series have been lavishly illustrated by French artist Michel Plessix. With its detailed lifework and gorgeous coloring, these books rank up there with the finest of Europe’s graphic novels. Plessix’ amalgamation of anthropomorphism and realism yields a beautiful and first-rate product. And the story tells an often-amusing tale of Toad and his allies trying to retake his home after it has been taken over by other forest critters after Toad’s extended absence. The characters are simply known as Toad, Badger, Mole, and the like, which makes it easy for children, or anyone else, to remember who’s who.

This is clearly a children’s story, and on that level it succeeds. But it might be a little too simplistic and low-key for adults expecting a more complex storyline from the appearance of the art. Those who are already familiar with Grahame’s books will know better, but others might be surprised. Still, the story is enjoyable enough, and at least it’s easily followed.

— Jim Johnson

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