Kathryn Aalto discusses her new book, The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh: A Walk through the Forest that Inspired the Hundred Acre Wood

Sun 10/25, 4pm – 5pm
Kathryn Aalto discusses her new book, The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh: A Walk through the Forest that Inspired the Hundred Acre Wood

The world’s most beloved bear lived here. The magical setting for Winnie-the-Pooh’s adventures is a real place: the Hundred Acre Wood was inspired by Ashdown Forest, a wildlife haven that spans more than 6,000 acres in southeast England.

The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh explores the enchanting landscapes where Pooh, Christopher Robin, and their friends live and play. 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, where Milne played the famous game he created for his son, the real Christopher Robin. See the old quarry where Roo played in his sandy pit. 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.

Kathryn Aalto is a landscape designer, historian, writer, and speaker living in Exeter, England. American by birth, she has master’s degrees in garden history and creative nonfiction with a particular interest in literary landscapes. Passionate about walking and natural history, she recently completed the Coast to Coast Walk across England with her family.