The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse: Inspiring Conversations on Hope, Love and Personal Growth Hardcover – October 22, 2019

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.

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.

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.

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!

Lovely! Illustrations are as good as the verse… Excellent