The River Bank: A Sequel to Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows

Gr 3–6—This sequel to Kenneth Grahame's classic tale begins a year after the original. New arrivals Beryl, a mild mannered authoress, and Rabbit, a flighty rabbit, join Mole, Badger, Rat, and Toad on the River Bank. Toad, a reformed motorist, initiates a series of shenanigans when he becomes obsessed with obtaining a motorcycle, with Rabbit serving as an all-too-eager accomplice. Mole, initially avoidant of Beryl, is later revealed to be her brother and the two set off to save their friends from themselves, leaving behind a letter that leads Badger and Rat to believe the two have wed. The story ends with the merry band going head-to-head against a fox and his gang after Toad and Rabbit are captured. Johnson's attention to world-building and characterization create an engaging read with modern appeal while maintaining the aesthetic of the original. It also works as a stand-alone for new readers, though references to events covered in the first book are sprinkled throughout. Black-and-white line spot art and full-page spreads add to the nostalgic feel.