The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse: Inspiring Conversations on Hope, Love and Personal Growth

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.

This is a beautiful and touching book is for the young and old! My daughter gave me this book as a gift during the pandemic. I can only say it brought me to tears in a good way. It gives us the life reminders of what is most important in life. Ever since she gave me my first copy, I have given it time and time again to others. For birthdays, baby showers, new parents, or when anyone is going through a tough time. This makes the perfect gift for yourself or anyone in your life. I have is displayed in my living room for guests to read when they come over. Everyone that reads it, loves it!

I love the story of this book. I got it for several of my grandkids' families to read together. It has a beautiful message to read together & discuss. I don't like that it's written in cursive throughout though, like with a marker. It did not explain that in the description which would have been useful. Some states don't even teach cursive any more which makes the book inaccessible to those who would benefit most from it. Enchanting illustrations that are quite beautiful. I'm looking for the book 2 in this series coming out in the fall which I will also purchase. I plan on buying more copies as more of my grandkids grow out of the toddler state. & are in elementary school though adults will enjoy this book also. It's even better when sharing it with young ones in your family.

This book feels like a warm hug. It's beautiful and has a fantastic message. I suggest you read it at night with your kids or when your having a bad day.

Lovely, inspirational book. It has lessons for children as well as adults.

Reading this book is like receiving a hug. I have sent multiple copies in the mail to people I love and told them it was my way of sending a hug their way. The illustrations are beautiful and the words are simply powerful! Highly recommend. I even have two tattoos on my body of the artwork because I love it so much.

This book is a delightful and uplifting read, suitable for all ages. It's an ideal gift, especially for teens and young adults seeking encouragement. Free from political or controversial themes, it offers a refreshing and heartfelt experience. The audiobook, with the author's perfect narration, enhances the experience and is so captivating that I listened to it multiple times in one day. I've shared this book with my college kids and younger nephews, and it makes a wonderful gift. It's the kind of book you want to enjoy in a peaceful setting, like a park, with a cozy blanket. This book has profoundly touched me, and I highly recommend it to everyone. It truly deserves high praise. I’ve now bought at least 8 copies of this book to gift. I love reading the book alongside the audiobook version, it’s even better reading both together. I can’t recommend this book enough, it’s literally my favorite book now and I’m 50yo. I gifted it any chance I can. There are two versions of this book as you can see from my photos. The illustrated version it’s ideal for adolescents children, while the black and white format it’s best for teens, young adults and adults. Combine with the audio version and it’s a winner every time. Love this book! Buy it!Thank you to the author—please continue writing such inspiring works.

Love the story concept and the beautiful illustrations