In the Wake of the Willows, 2nd Edition

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

By: Frederick Gorham Thurber

Narrated by: Madeleine Barker

A New World version of a classic story set in a New England coastal estuary in the 1920s.

This is a story about the denizens of a very special river. For like their relatives on the other side of the ocean, this river had its own rat, mole, badger, otter, and weasel clans.

When a spooky nocturnal creature starts terrorizing the riverfront, Mr. Rat’s clever daughter sets to work solving the mystery and unmasking the culprit. But that is only the beginning of the intrigue and adventure that happened one eventful summer.

This lyrically crafted book features a mysterious Native American prophecy, a suspected sea monster, a scavenger hunt with a surprising twist, persnickety weasels, a mysterious clue etched on a piece of birch bark, some hilarious high jinks by Mr. Toad’s son, a chatterbox bobolink, a devastating hurricane, a heroic rescue, a liberal sprinkling of gentle humor, nautical adventures in wooden boats, some historical fiction, an unusual square dance with fireflies, a campfire on the beach at night watching shooting stars, and an outrageously conceited poem by Mr. Toad.

This story is set almost a century ago against the rural backdrop of coastal New England. All the natural history and science in this book is accurate and will inspire listeners to learn more. Most of the locations, boat names, and historical events are accurate for the times.

©2016, 2017, 2019 Frederick Gorham Thurber (P)2020 Cricket Works Press

Nature Lover’s Delight

I love the humor, natural history, and narration. It should appeal to all ages; even adults will enjoy it. A wonderful new classic.

Messing About in Boats Reborn

Filled with authentic New England charm and nautical detail, this re-imagined classic is well written, and well narrated, breathing new life into this well loved tail and its classic cast of characters with some new friends along the way. Whether enjoyed afloat, or from the comfort of a favorite arm-chair, Thurber's prose and Barker's voice(s) take you on a grand maritime adventure and safely home again. What more could you ask!

The Perfect Antidote to Trying Times

Enchanting! If you loved Kenneth Grahame's Wind in the Willows (and who doesn't), this is a delightful update, delivered with a transatlantic, contemporary twist. Whimsical and entertaining, it's also welcome escapism in the best sense! The ideal way to end the day for children and adults alike. The narrator is truly gifted: a swift reading at a lively clip, that holds the listener's attention and brings each of the characters to life (I particularly enjoyed the weasels!). The author's skill at wrapping in details about the various animals and their habitats is an added bonus. Enjoy!

This is a marvelous narration!

Ms. Barker is a tour de force! She took Mr. Thurber’s words and characters, and skillfully brought them to life.

It’s still hard to believe that one actor performed it all; that it wasn’t a full theatre company of men, women and children.

Bravo!