'When We Were Very Young' in the series 'Winnie-the-Pooh' by A.A. Milne is a timeless classic that follows the adventures of Pooh Bear and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood. The book teaches valuable lessons on friendship and kindness while showcasing the charming and lovable characters such as Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Rabbit, Owl, and Christopher Robin. The stories are filled with whimsical logic that appeals to both children and adults, capturing the essence of a child's imagination and the wonders of childhood adventures.

The writing style in 'When We Were Very Young' is clever, witty, and entertaining, with a touch of dry humor that engages readers of all ages. A.A. Milne's storytelling evokes nostalgia and warmth, creating a world where readers can escape and immerse themselves in the simple yet profound tales of Pooh and his friends.

Characters:

The characters are endearing and distinct, each representing various qualities that resonate with childhood experiences and emotions.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is whimsical and engaging, characterized by clever language that resonates with both young and older readers.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a series of charming stories that revolve around the adventures of Pooh Bear and his friends, showcasing themes of imagination and childhood innocence.

Setting:

The setting, the Hundred Acre Wood, is idyllic and magical, perfectly capturing the essence of childhood adventure and imagination.

Pacing:

The pacing is calm and easygoing, with each story allowing time for engagement and enjoyment without unnecessary rush.

Well, it just happened that you had been to a party the day before at the house of your friend Piglet, and you had balloons at the party. You had had a big green balloon; and one of Rabbit’s relations...

Notes:

Winnie the Pooh was first published in 1926 and is based on the author's son Christopher Robin's stuffed animals.

The character Winnie the Pooh was originally named Edward Bear and is a reference to a bear named Winnie in a London Zoo.

A.A. Milne, the author, drew inspiration from his son's toys for the characters in the Hundred Acre Wood.

The book comprises ten different adventures featuring Pooh and his friends such as Piglet, Eeyore, and Rabbit.

Christopher Robin lives behind a green door in a big tree but also seems to live in a real house in the illustrations.

Pooh's obsession with honey is a recurring theme throughout his adventures, highlighting his lovable nature.

The stories include humorous elements aimed at both children and adults, showcasing Milne's clever writing style.

Pooh's adventures often involve him getting stuck in places, such as Rabbit's door, due to his love for food.

Eeyore, who often appears gloomy, does celebrate his birthday with gifts from friends, showing the theme of friendship.

A.A. Milne also authored two poetry collections: 'When We Were Very Young' and 'Now We Are Six.'

Disney adapted the stories into animated films, but the original narratives have a whimsical and more humorous tone.

The original illustrations were done by Ernest H. Shepard, lending a unique charm to the stories.

From The Publisher:

Happy 90th birthday, to one of the world's most beloved icons of children's literature, Winnie-the-Pooh!

Ratings (37)

Incredible (8)
Loved It (13)
Liked It (11)
It Was OK (5)

Reader Stats (84):

Read It (38)
Want To Read (15)
Not Interested (31)

1 comment(s)

Flick Jones

Loved It

1 year

I read Winnie the Pooh as a child. In fact, it was the first book I ever bought for myself. I was on holiday in Swanage and had been given some spending money.

Buying a book seemed a good choice. I loved Winne the Pooh, primarily, because he made me laugh out loud. I would read excerpts to my older brother and he too would laugh aloud.

The enjoyment of Winnie the Pooh has stood the test of time. Think of how many children over the decades have relished in the delights of the silly, old bear and his friends.

What can you read after
When We Were Very Young?

See the list (100 books)

About the Author:

A. A. MILNE (1882-1956) was born in England. He studied at Cambridge but left school in 1903 to write, soon supporting himself on his earnings as an editor at Punch magazine and as a playwright. His son Christopher Robin Milne was born…

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When We Were Very Young

A.A. Milne

Book 1 in the series:Winnie-the-Pooh