I happen to be reading TWITW to my daughter right now. Unfortunately, it is one of those debased "illustrated children's classics" versions, so no doubt I shall have to purchase the Real Deal soon.

So far, Water Rat has shown Mole about the river and taught him to row properly. Toad has virtually kidnapped the two and wrecked them in his latest toy, a "gypsy wagon" sent into a ditch by the shiny new motorcar.

I can't wait to read what happens next.

As a preliminary thought, I cannot help but notice certain unmistakeable affinities between Toad and a well-known late lion of the net, whose love of new expensive playtoys wrought havoc upon many citizens of our shared world.

More after the next chapter!