Rating: 
Summary: SO much better than the cutesy Disney stuff
Review: Don't get me wrong, Disney has done some great things, e.g. Snow White. But their versions of Pooh (and some of the other classics) are missing so much of the original wit, humor, intelligence, warmth, and quality of illustration that A. A. Milne and Ernest Shepard created. Honestly, I think adults get as much enjoyment from the originals as the kids do.
This volume is a fine way to get the complete set of stories, plus a nice introduction with an explanation of the origin of Pooh, the inspiration for Milne and Shepard.
After you order this, get the original (illustrations & text) Beatrix Potter 'Peter Rabbit' volume, for many of the same reasons. Your children will love you for it now and thank you in years to come--and you will be in for a real treat too.
Rating:
Summary: A bear of very little brains . . .
Review: A. A. Milne would be proud of the interpretation of his story and characters that will always live in the forest of imagination. Ernest H. Shepard's artwork makes this adventure is a visual delight. The characters represent archetypes to which children can identify and relate. As long as there are children and parents to read to them, Winnie the Pooh will remain a favorite storybook classic. * Pooh teaches a positive attitude; he will always get the honey, and get out of predicaments through his friends. His wisdom is simple and easy for children to understand and agree upon.
* Eyore is forlorn, pessimistic, and surprised by the good things that come his way. He never expects to be part of the crowd, but always is included. The emotion is easy to relate to from our own adolescence, and helps adults remember the trials of childhood.
* Tigger and his bouncy tail take us into the air in a never-ending enthusiasm for the joy in life. In addition, he shows the potential of getting into trouble because he does not think about the results.
* Rabbit, practical Rabbit, who is also a sourpuss, shows that we can always miss the joy in life, but if we join with others then good things happen.
* Kanga and baby Roo show the importance of love and protection for parent and child.
* Owl is the wise old teacher who always asks "Who?" in the quest for knowledge, and shows the value of learning.
* Christopher Robin represents the adult, the one who solves problems, and is a constant force even when not present. He is the focus, the thinker, and he shows the value of considering thought before words and actions. Since he is a child, children can see they too have control, make decisions, and find answers. My daughter loves her long worn out book with the torn red cover, and although this book is its replacement, the original stays in the family. Five stars and great thanks to Walt Disney Studios who keeps the Winnie the Pooh light burning. Victoria Tarrani
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