The Wind in the Willows is a classic children's novel by Kenneth Grahame, first published in 1908. The story follows the adventures of four anthropomorphic animals: TOAD, RAT, Otter, and Mr. TOAD. TOAD is a wealthy, impulsive, and adventurous TOAD who often finds himself in trouble due to his rash decisions. RAT is a wise and loyal water RAT who is TOAD's closest friend. Otter is a kind and gentle river otter who is a father figure to his adopted son Portly. Finally, Mr. TOAD is TOAD's alter ego, a more mature and responsible version of himself.