Matt BrownReviewed in the United States on December 2, 2023
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.
Probably AccurateReviewed in the United States on December 17, 2024
A wonderful lesson on live and life that in many ways reminds me of the vibe of "The Little Prince"
CYNTHIA H.Reviewed in the United States on January 5, 2025
Inspirational, practical, solid advice and lessons for all people of all ages. Beautiful artwork/sketching.
An excellent gift to yourself snd others.
AnonymousReviewed in the United States on October 29, 2024
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.
RTReviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
This is one of my all time favorite books! Lovely illustrations express the heartfelt message of the precious friendship that develops between characters!
KLReviewed in the United States on April 19, 2021
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.
Kent R. SpillnerReviewed in the United States on December 3, 2024
This is a really beautiful and inspiring book. It took a while to grow on me because I found the author's handwriting difficult to read, the art style inconsistent between drawings, and the "story," such as it is, jumps around in time and space. But I see now that is all part of this book's charm and message! I love it, and look forward to reading it again and again with my children.
Roji FoxReviewed in the United States on November 16, 2024
Beautifully illustrated and thoughtful from reading to children to adults! 3+ Sharing with all my friends.
Nathalie Gonzalez QuinteroReviewed in Canada on December 29, 2024
I bought this book for my stepson and he love it. It has a beautiful message, easy to read, not many pages and it can be readable for any age !
EricaReviewed in Brazil on September 14, 2024
Livro mais fofo e lindo e em ótimo estado.
Mensagens maravilhosas e lições de vida para todas as idades. Recomendo
DanielaReviewed in Mexico on May 21, 2024
El libro llegó en perfectas condiciones. Ni más, ni menos.
La historia te envuelve en un análisis de la vida muy sencillo, digerible en su totalidad y con un rocío de gracia y ternura que hacen que tu corazón se contraiga sin esfuerzo.
SamReviewed in Sweden on December 18, 2024
This is the best book, full of art that touches you deep in the heart.
Matt BrownReviewed in the United States on December 2, 2023
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.
Probably AccurateReviewed in the United States on December 17, 2024
A wonderful lesson on live and life that in many ways reminds me of the vibe of "The Little Prince"
CYNTHIA H.Reviewed in the United States on January 5, 2025
Inspirational, practical, solid advice and lessons for all people of all ages. Beautiful artwork/sketching. An excellent gift to yourself snd others.
AnonymousReviewed in the United States on October 29, 2024
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.
RTReviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
This is one of my all time favorite books! Lovely illustrations express the heartfelt message of the precious friendship that develops between characters!
KLReviewed in the United States on April 19, 2021
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.
Kent R. SpillnerReviewed in the United States on December 3, 2024
This is a really beautiful and inspiring book. It took a while to grow on me because I found the author's handwriting difficult to read, the art style inconsistent between drawings, and the "story," such as it is, jumps around in time and space. But I see now that is all part of this book's charm and message! I love it, and look forward to reading it again and again with my children.
Roji FoxReviewed in the United States on November 16, 2024
Beautifully illustrated and thoughtful from reading to children to adults! 3+ Sharing with all my friends.
Nathalie Gonzalez QuinteroReviewed in Canada on December 29, 2024
I bought this book for my stepson and he love it. It has a beautiful message, easy to read, not many pages and it can be readable for any age !
EricaReviewed in Brazil on September 14, 2024
Livro mais fofo e lindo e em ótimo estado. Mensagens maravilhosas e lições de vida para todas as idades. Recomendo
DanielaReviewed in Mexico on May 21, 2024
El libro llegó en perfectas condiciones. Ni más, ni menos. La historia te envuelve en un análisis de la vida muy sencillo, digerible en su totalidad y con un rocío de gracia y ternura que hacen que tu corazón se contraiga sin esfuerzo.
SamReviewed in Sweden on December 18, 2024
This is the best book, full of art that touches you deep in the heart.
SusaReviewed in Germany on November 27, 2024
Es war ein Geschenk und ist sehr gut angekommen.