Sometimes the simple but well-crafted stories stick with us the most, and this is precisely the case for Charlie Mackesey’s highly acclaimed (by both readers and critics) illustrated novel The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse.
In this article, we’ll take you through five lessons you can learn from reading this book and contemplating its well-packaged but profound ideas.
There are no groundbreaking hacks or excessively hyped-up claims in Charlie Mackesey’s book. Instead, he gives us powerful and basic ideas wrapped up in thoughtful sentences and wonderfully expressive illustrations that you’ll be delighted by as you work your way through its contents.
Now, if you’d like to check out the book, you can read it on your Kindle, get a print copy, or listen to the audiobook.
We’ll begin the lessons by learning about the star players that make the story go.
Lesson 1: The Characters
As the book title suggests, the story centers around four characters. These characters represent different ideas and perspectives which influence and control their actions.
The Boy
The boy is lonely and curious and is an important figurehead for the reader’s journey through the book.
Over time, the Boy builds friendships with other characters and demonstrates the value of vulnerability and compassion when seeking to gain a greater understanding of the world.
The Mole
The wise mentor for The Boy, the Mole is happy to share wisdom through insightful questions that help the reader and The Boy understand what’s happening.
The Mole is a great friend and also loves cake! The Mole represents patience and maturity.
The Fox
The reader will soon become acquainted with the third character. Initially, the Fox is hesitant to trust anyone, but gradually the Fox warms up to the other characters and opens up. The Fox represents the power of bonds and trust.
The Horse
The final character – the horse is strong, but gentle, he’s the anchor that keeps the group on steady ground. The Horse often sees the bigger picture in the situation and encourages the group to confront their weaknesses.
The horse represents the power of loyalty and love for one's friends and family.
Lesson 2: The Key Themes
Charlie Mackesey presents us with some important concepts throughout the book.
These concepts are not explicitly stated to the reader, instead, Charlie uses the illustrations and experiences the characters go through to teach the importance of these themes.
The book explores four concepts; Friendship, Courage, Kindness, and Love.
All of these are things we know to be important, but in times of stress or difficulty, we can forget. In many cases, when we’re feeling lost and confused, or frightened, it’s the ones who care about us that help.
In some cases, when we’re scared or facing difficulty, it’s the love that we have for others that pushes us out of dire circumstances.
In today’s world of 24/7 grind and trying to “outwork” and “outcompete” everyone, it’s easy to forget that often the best bits of ourselves come from passion, kindness, courage, love, and friendship.
The stories and illustrations in Charlie Mackesey’s book remind us of these often overlooked and taken-for-granted things.
Lesson 3: Key Quotes to Guide You
Charlie Mackeseye’s illustrative novel is packed full of heartwarming and insightful quotes.
These small tidbits can help you remember your favorite stories and consolidate the lessons in your memory.
Here are some of the top quotes:
- “What is the bravest thing you've ever said?” asked the boy. “Help,” said the horse. “Asking for help isn't giving up,” said the horse. “It's refusing to give up.”
This quote beautifully highlights the importance of seeking help when needed and not viewing it as a sign of weakness.
- “Sometimes just getting up and carrying on is brave and magnificent.”
Found in one of the book's illustrations, this quote is a great reminder that bravery can be found in small acts and simply pushing forward despite life's challenges.
- “One of our greatest freedoms is how we react to things.”
This quote emphasizes the power you have over your reactions to the events in your life. It allows you to control your emotions and maintain a more balanced perspective.
- “The greatest illusion,” said the mole, “is that life should be perfect.”
Life is full of ups and downs, and this quote serves as a gentle reminder not to expect perfection but instead embrace the journey with all its flaws and beauty.
- “When the big things feel out of control,” said the boy, “focus on what you love right under your nose.”
In times of uncertainty or stress, this quote suggests focusing on the little joys and the people and activities that bring you happiness as a way to cope and maintain a positive perspective.
These are just a few small tidbits, the book is packed full of them, and you may find others that resonate with you.
Lesson 4: Understanding The Books Structure
While it may seem strange to have an entire section devoted to the structure of a book, Charlie Mackesey has crafted the book more uniquely.
At first glance, you may misjudge his work and deprive yourself of its insights.
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse doesn’t follow along in continuous prose. Instead, the illustrations are loosely linked – the author uses their simple style to convey levels of meaning.
This is one of the reasons why both readers and critics praise the book, it’s not something you have to read in one go, instead, you pick it up and take what you want from it, or read the whole thing cover to cover if you like.
This style allows you to immerse yourself in the character's journey – it’s a different experience than simply reading prose continuously. The tone and pace of this book are calming, relaxing, and almost meditative.
To summarize, as you read The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse, appreciate its:
Embrace the unique structure and style of this book and let it move you with its profound simplicity and touching narrative.
Lesson 5: The Best Way to Experience the Book
As mentioned, this is not your average book, it isn’t a cerebral detective novel, a self-help book filled with exercises and techniques, or a fantasy escape.
The author has written a more meditative and relaxing experience that the reader can stroll through at their own pace.
The best way to experience this book is to use it as an aid for contemplation on things like compassion, friendship, vulnerability, and self-acceptance.
As you immerse yourself in this heartwarming tale, you may notice a growing sense of comfort and connection.
You'll find that the journey of these four unlikely friends acts like a mirror – reflecting your struggles and moments of joy.
These are the often overlooked things that have incredible power to shape our lives.
Sometimes it’s good to carve out a little time to consciously remind yourself of their importance.
Final Thoughts on The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse
The lonely boy, a greedy mole, a wary fox, and a gentle horse embark on an adventure, and along the way, they learn valuable life lessons.
As a reader, you will experience the characters' self-discoveries, which reflect your life journey.
Whether you’re young or old, there’s something for you in this book, and it has a lifetime of lessons to ponder.
And if you want to check out another book summary, then watch our video about the 5 lessons you can learn from Atomic Habits by James Clear.
And if you're looking for more book reviews, be sure to check out these blog posts:
- Four Thousand Weeks Book Summary (5 Lessons)
- The 12 Week Year Book Summary (5 Lessons)
- Four Thousand Weeks Book Summary (5 Lessons)
