The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
on Goodreads (215,525)
What’s inside...
Enter the world of Charlie's four unlikely friends, discover their story and their most important life lessons. The boy, the mole, the fox and the horse have been shared millions of times online - perhaps you've seen them? They've also been recreated by children in schools and hung on hospital walls. They sometimes even appear on lamp posts and on cafe and bookshop windows. Perhaps you saw the boy and mole on the Comic Relief T-shirt, Love Wins? Here, you will find them together in this book of Charlie's most-loved drawings, adventuring into the Wild and exploring the thoughts and feelings that unite us all. From the revered British illustrator, a modern fable for all ages that explores life’s universal lessons, featuring 100 color and black-and-white drawings. 'What do you want to be when you grow up?' asked the mole. 'Kind,' said the boy. Charlie Mackesy offers inspiration and hope in uncertain times in this beautiful book based on his famous quartet of characters. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse explores their unlikely friendship and the poignant, universal lessons they learn together. Radiant with Mackesy’s warmth and gentle wit, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse blends hand-written narrative with dozens of drawings, including some of his best-loved illustrations (including 'Help,' which has been shared over one million times) and new, never-before-seen material. A modern classic in the vein of The Tao of Pooh, The Alchemist, and The Giving Tree, this charmingly designed keepsake will be treasured for generations to come.
Age
7-10
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Boy
Fox
Mole
Horse
Discussion points
What do you think the boy learned from his journey with the mole, the fox, and the horse?
How did the characters help each other throughout the story? Can you think of a time you helped a friend or a friend helped you?
What do the different characters teach us about kindness and courage?
Why do you think the mole loves cake so much, and how does it make him feel?
Which character did you relate to the most, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a soft, inviting tone to encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story.
Refer to specific parts or illustrations in the book to help guide your child’s responses and make connections.
Highlight the emotions displayed by the characters, asking your child how they might feel in similar situations.
Encourage your child to think about the importance of friendship and empathy by discussing the interactions between the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and empathy
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the boy, the mole, the fox, and the horse demonstrate acts of kindness and empathy towards each other, showing understanding and compassion for each other's fears and weaknesses.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with their peers' feelings and situations, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment at school and at home.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: The characters in the book develop strong bonds of friendship and trust, helping each other overcome various obstacles, which highlights the strength found in trusting relationships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building trust in friendships and supports them in understanding how mutual respect forms the foundation of lasting relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage to face one's fears
Explanation: The boy and his friends often face challenges that they are initially afraid of, but together they find the courage to confront and overcome these fears.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears, whether it's trying new activities or standing up for what is right, boosting their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: The significance of self-acceptance and honesty
Explanation: The characters learn to accept their flaws and embrace their individuality, promoting a message of self-love and honesty about one's feelings and fears.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop a healthy self-image and practice honesty in their daily interactions, which are key components of emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: Despite the hurdles they encounter, the group keeps moving forward, demonstrating perseverance and determination as key to overcoming difficulties.
Real-World Application: By observing this behavior, children learn the value of persisting through challenges, whether academic or personal, cultivating a resilient mindset.