Hi friends! Today,
I want to share something special I’ve been reading: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy. It’s a tiny book with big lessons, and I think everyone can learn something from it.
Let me walk you through what this story taught me.
The book follows four unlikely friends: a lonely boy, a cake-loving mole, a quiet fox, and a wise horse. They wander through snowy fields and forests, asking questions about life, fear, friendship, and love. Their conversations are simple but powerful, like talking to a friend who just gets you.
What I Learned
1. It’s Okay to Ask for Help
One line hit me hard: “Asking for help isn’t giving up,” said the horse. “It’s refusing to give up.”
I used to think asking for help meant I was weak. But the horse teaches us that real strength is admitting we can’t do everything alone. Whether it’s homework, a tough day, or a big dream—reach out. People want to help.
2. Kindness is Everywhere (Even in Small Things)
The mole loves cake, but he loves kindness more. He says, “Nothing beats kindness… It sits quietly beyond all things.”
I’ve started noticing how tiny acts of kindness—a smile, holding a door, sharing a snack—make the world brighter. You don’t need to be rich or powerful to be kind. Just be.
3. You Are Enough
The boy often worries he’s not “enough”—not brave, smart, or special. The horse replies: “You matter. You’re important. And you’re loved.”
This made me think: Why do we criticize ourselves so much? What if we treated ourselves like we treat our best friend? You don’t need to prove anything to be worthy.
4. Fear is Normal, But Don’t Let It Stop You
The fox barely speaks at first because he’s afraid of being hurt. But slowly, he learns to trust the group. The mole says, “We all feel scared sometimes. But together, we’re less scared.”
Fear is part of life. But sharing our fears—with family, friends, or even a journal—makes them lighter.
5. Home Isn’t a Place—It’s Love
At the end, the boy asks, “What do you think success is?” The horse answers: “To love… and be loved.”
We chase big goals (grades, jobs, money), but what truly matters is feeling safe and loved. Home is wherever you’re with people who care.
Why This Book Feels Real
The lessons aren’t “new,” but they’re told in a way that feels like a warm hug. The scribbly drawings and handwritten text make it feel like a diary or a letter from a friend. It’s messy, honest, and human.
I also love that the characters aren’t perfect:
The boy doubts himself.
The mole talks too much.
The fox hides his pain.
The horse carries sadness.
They’re just like us—flawed but trying their best.
How I’m Using These Lessons
When I’m stressed, I ask myself: “What would the horse say?” (Usually: “Breathe. You’re enough.”)
I’m trying to say “thank you and sorry” more often—to others and myself.
I remind myself that even adults feel lost sometimes. It’s part of being alive.
Final Thought
This book isn’t about grand adventures. It’s about the quiet moments that shape us—the chats, the tears, the laughs. It’s a reminder that we’re all a little broken, but together, we’re whole.
If you’re feeling lost, small, or alone, give this book a try. And remember: “The greatest illusion,” said the mole, “is that life should be perfect.”
Let’s embrace the messiness, friends. 💛
Share this with someone who needs a reminder they’re loved. And if you’ve read the book, tell me your favorite lesson in the comments!
