The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh: A Walk Through the Forest that Inspired the Hundred Acre Wood

Written by Kathryn Aalto

Narrated by Corrie James

Loved Goodbye Christopher Robin? Learn more about the real place that inspired the beloved stories.

Delve into the home of the world's most beloved bear! The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh explores the magical landscapes where Pooh, Christopher Robin, and their friends live and play. The Hundred Acre Wood-the setting for Winnie-the-Pooh's adventures-was inspired by Ashdown Forest, a wildlife haven that spans more than 6,000 acres in southeast England. In this enchanting book you can visit the ancient black walnut tree on the edge of the forest that became Pooh's house, go deep into the pine trees to find Poohsticks Bridge, and climb up to the top of the enchanted Galleons Lap, where Pooh says goodbye to Christopher Robin. You will discover how Milne's childhood connection with nature and his role as a father influenced his famous stories, and how his close collaboration with illustrator E. H. Shepard brought those stories to life. This charming book also serves as a guide to the plants, animals, and places of the remarkable Ashdown Forest, whether you are visiting in person or from the comfort of your favorite armchair. In a delightful narrative, enriched with Milne's own words, you will rediscover your favorite characters and the magical place they called home.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Release date: Jan 10, 2019
• ISBN: 9781977338846

Reviews for The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh

[quaintlittlehead · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This book has a little something for everyone: mini biographies of A. A. Milne and E. H. Shepard, maps and photos of Ashdown Forest (the real "Hundred Acre Wood") recalling specific excerpts from the Pooh books, historical trivia, and information on local plants and wildlife. I got a little tired of reading book excerpts and then hearing the author say there was no particular place that inspired that part of the story--that chapter might have moved a little faster without so much direct quoting from Milne, or if it had spoken only of known locations like the "Poohsticks Bridge." However, I enjoyed immensely the extent to which Aalto situated the forest within thousands of years of history, referencing the Old English language, the Romans, and the Normans to give context to a place that is far older than Christopher Robin and Pooh--even if they did live to be 100 and 99.

[kek55 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A sweet-toned guide to the forest and heath areas of England where the Milne family lived, and which became an integral part of the Pooh stories. Covers history, geography and much plant life while focusing on Milne, Shepard and the family life which led to the creation of the adventures of Winnie the Pooh and his friends. The writing can hopscotch around quite a bit but the overall content is interesting and enjoyable.