Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends have been delighting readers for generations. Filled with gentle humor, whimsy, and kindness, the stories A.A. Milne created have become classics that are as beloved now as they were when they were first published 100 years ago.

In celebration of the centennial of Milne’s timeless tales, join Professor Eamonn Gearon for 100 Years of Winnie-the-Pooh: The Story of A.A. Milne and His Beloved Bear. Over the course of six lectures, Professor Gearon will examine A.A. Milne’s life, the creation of his stories, and his collaboration with the brilliant illustrator E.H. Shepard. You’ll discover the real-life inspirations behind the stories, including the forest that became the Hundred Acre Wood and the cherished toys that would come to life as Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger, and others. You’ll also meet the real Christopher Robin, Milne’s son, who would have a tumultuous relationship with his literary fame.

From his humble debut as Edward Bear in a poem in 1924, Winnie-the-Pooh has become not only an icon of children’s literature, but a pop culture juggernaut, appearing in film, on television, and as toys for decades. His image—and those of his companions—adorn everything from nursery wallpaper to theme park attractions. As Professor Gearon makes clear, part of what has made Pooh such a lasting character is Milne’s unique approach to writing for children. Milne’s love of language and deep respect for the intelligence of his young audience allowed him to create a character and a world that continue to speak to readers of all ages and backgrounds. Now, you’ll see why readers have returned again and again to the joys of the Hundred Acre Wood for over a century—and beyond.