The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse

This is a delightful children's book that is wonderful for all ages. Illustrated with watercolor artwork and simple, elegant drawings, it reads like a blend of The Tao of Pooh and The Giving Tree. It is hopeful, charming, and inspiring quick read. Art: 5/5 Plot: 3.5/5 Writing: 4.5/5 My Enjoyment: 4.5/5

Not just for kids. There’s a life lesson in every page. Loved the illustrations as well. This is a short read but so full of insight and inspiration.

I bought this book because I already knew how meaningful and beautiful the story is. The messages are timeless, and it’s definitely a book I’ll keep in our home for years. My only disappointment is the handwritten font. It looks artistic, but it’s very difficult to read, especially for a 7-year-old who is still building reading confidence. I wish there were a printed-text version for young readers. Even with that, I’m glad I bought it because of the wonderful content, and I hope my child will enjoy reading it independently when they’re older

After "meeting" the delightfully disarming author of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, on a morning show, I had to support Charlie Mackesy. The book sounded as disarming and delightful as the man, so I bought it. Little did I know how deep and emotionally satisfying this thin little volume would be. On my first reading I stopped halfway through and ordered copies for my daughter, my best friend and my granddaughter. I had to share the joy it brought to me. In gently presented prose consisting of kind one-liners, the philosophy of living a good life, loving oneself, being kind to others, living forgiveness of others and self, and being both satisfied and hopeful unroll like a Taoist scroll—or a gem of a book found in an ancient jar in a Middle Eastern cave. That possibly makes it sound stodgy or preachy, but it most definitely is not. It is soul-satisfying in a way that seemed inspired. This is no self-help book. It is a tale that opens you up to wisdom and peace. The wisdom is ancient, God-like and deeply personal. It is as if a beloved and long-dead grandfather is whispering universal truths through the mole, the fox and the horse, as each learns, imparts knowledge and comes to trust the boy and each other. It is a catechism. The characters, usually the boy, ask questions and someone provides an answer your soul didn't even know it was seeking. This deceptively simple little volume is filled with deceptively simple line drawings and script, all produced by an accidental philosopher-artist living in a stone hut in the English countryside like a hermit priest. I find myself reading the book over and over, flipping to favorite sections when I need comfort or reassurance. I used to search Psalms or Romans this way. My Lutheran soul worries I am turning to secular comfort, but I still hear God's voice in Charlie's words, so I relax and listen with my whole heart. The words speaking to my soul are Good. Goodness is a theme. As are love, kindness, patience, gentleness. Aren't all these qualities from a Divine source, no matter whose god is speaking? Now, that was a non-Lutheran statement if I ever heard one! But maybe it should be embraced and valued by all. Grace and Truth, like Love and Forgiveness are universal—or they should be. Maybe I am wrong about Charlie, that gentle man in the stone hut. Instead of being a philosopher, perhaps he is a prophet. I like to think so... St. Charlie. Yes, that has a ring to it. His book has the markings, after all.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is one of those rare books that feels like a warm hug every time you open it. The illustrations are simple yet powerful, and the short, heartfelt messages about hope, kindness, and love resonate with readers of all ages. I first read the book and was deeply moved by its gentle wisdom, then later watched the Apple TV film with my family, and we loved both. The film brings the characters to life while keeping the same heart and quiet beauty of the book. It was just as moving, with a comforting tone that stayed true to the original. The hardcover edition feels special and gift-worthy, with quality pages that make it a joy to flip through slowly. This is the kind of book you can read in one sitting or keep nearby to revisit whenever you need encouragement. If you’re looking for something uplifting to share with loved ones, this is a treasure in both print and film form.

Timeless wisdom written with a simplicity that reaches the heart. This is a book that conveys the basic truth of life with an unlikely grouping of characters.

This enchanting book unexpectedly crossed my path during a podcast, and I'm immensely grateful it did. "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse" is a profound masterpiece that transcends age barriers, offering a treasure trove of wisdom applicable to both children and adults alike. Charlie Mackesy's storytelling and illustrations are a breathtaking fusion of heartwarming simplicity and profound depth. Each page is a journey of self-discovery and resilience, beautifully capturing the essence of life's lessons through the endearing characters of the boy, the mole, the fox, and the horse. The book is a balm for the soul, a reminder of kindness, courage, and the enduring power of friendship. Whether you're navigating the complexities of adulthood or helping a child navigate the early chapters of life, the messages embedded in these pages resonate universally. The artwork is as captivating as the words, evoking emotions that linger long after the book is closed. Mackesy's ability to distill complex emotions into simple yet powerful illustrations is nothing short of magical. In recommending this book, it's not just a suggestion; it's an earnest encouragement. "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse" is a timeless journey that deserves a place on every bookshelf. It's a gift to yourself and others, offering solace, inspiration, and a gentle reminder of the beauty inherent in the human spirit. Five stars without a doubt – a must-read for every soul.

I bought this book for my son. Instead, I found myself reading it over and over again. It's a book that invites you to reflect on everything: who you are, how you live, what you notice, what you value. It’s one of those rare books that reminds you that wisdom doesn’t always come wrapped in complexity. Sometimes, it begins with a simple question.

The book arrived promptly. It had some slight marks on the cover which were easily removed with an eraser. The finish is as expected for a nice, hardcover book. The font was a bit annoying to read but there were quaint little touches which made up for this. For instance, inside both the front and back covers were a piece of music, which I'm assuming is the theme for the story. I got my son to play it for me so I can hear it in its entirety. It was melodic, and matches the general gist of the tale. All in all, the story closely resembles Winnie the Pooh. It is an abstract tale with inspirational nuggets and makes for an easy read, can be completed in less than hour, perhaps even half of that. However, I will take my time as it is a leisure story, to be enjoyed slowly. It makes for a great present to someone who is a bit down and in need of some cheer. The story is simple, about kindness, compassion and self-discovery. However, it would also be suitable for people who enjoy art, pretty and cute things, as well as subdued splashes of colour in their lives (both literally & figuratively). I got it for myself, after seeing a copy at a friend's place. However, it undoubtedly would be a great, ageless gift for someone and makes for a wonderful addition to any shelf. This is not a book to be bought as a digital version but for book lovers who love the smell and sensations that comes with holding a solid, 3D book in their hands. It certainly is an inspirational, feel-good book. Well done to Mackesy for his artistic creation!

A simple yet meaningful book. Good for all ages.

Davvero un libro carinissimo da possedere o da regalare. Una storia per bambini ma consiglierei la lettura anche a un pubblico adulto. Io ho visto questo libro in un negozietto ad Amsterdam e mi sono innamorata, l’ho poi acquistato qui in lingua inglese. Lo ricomprerò sicuramente per regalarlo. Bellissima anche la copertina, stupende le illustrazioni.

Such a beautiful book — small in size but rich in heart. We read just two pages each morning, because each spread holds a gentle lesson worth sitting with. The drawings are simple and warm, and the mole’s antics (especially his love of cake) always make us smile. The writing speaks to both children and adults: honest, wise, and comforting. It’s a book to return to when you need calm, perspective, or a reminder to be kind. A perfect gift for any age.

Un très beau livre pour les adultes et pour les enfants. Les dessins sont beaux