Grahame introduces readers to a society filled with animal etiquette. Livelihoods vary depending on location: river bankers, wood dwellers, and those who live underground. The underground Badger appears to be society hating, but does follow protocol; it bothers him most that vain and trendy Toad (the most entertaining character) does just what he wants. Toad gets bored with boating and finds a new hobby: motor cars. His great motor car passion results in a prison break and a somewhat reformed Toad sees the error of his ways through the help of his pals. Friendship drives this social structure, and this story.
This is a wonderful story for children and adults of all ages. I enjoyed it on the beach this summer among other great novels like Charlotte’s Web, Stewart Little, and Vernon God Little.
And that is my Ironman Canada Race Report. Thanks for reading.