The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse Hardcover – 22 Oct. 2019

I'd read really good reviews of this book so I was keen to buy it for my son, but I regret it now and wish that I'd had the chance to flick through it in a shop before buying it.On a practical note, the text of the book is written in the authors own handwriting, which is nice but some people with additional needs might struggle to read it.What really disappointed me is the content, which in my view is vacuous weak sentiment with no actual substance behind it. Reading it feels like scrolling through the 'inspirational quote' tag on Pinterest, it's a collection of tid-bits that sound meaningful at first glance plastered across an attractive picture. But then when you stop to think about it for a second there isn't actually much of value there.For example 'Sometimes I feel lost' said the boy. 'Me too,' said the Mole 'But we love you and love brings you home'.What does that actually mean?I do see what they are getting at, and the idea of 'home' being a feeling rather then an actual place is explored later in the book - but only in a series of glib sounding platitudes.It's the sort of thing that if you were actually in a low place emotionally could make you feel worse - like being told 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger' by a stranger when you've just had the most soul crushingly awful day of your life.How do you feel when reading the above if you are one of those unfortunate children or adults who doesn't have a person in their life who loves them who can bring them 'home'? Even if you do, is it emotionally healthy to depend on the love of others to centre you if you feel 'lost'? How many people have ruined their lives pursuing relationships to fill the void of loneliness or their 'lost' feeling without addressing their own issues?I think that's my main problem with this book, on the surface it all sounds lovely, short and pithy messages and ideas for living your life that you would want your child to absorb - but when you stop to think about the ideas it's actually presenting for a moment they are confused and unhelpful in some cases.

I have just received my book, read it and I love everything about this book. I love the paper, I love the handwriting, I love the illustrations and I love the sentiments.I used to paint and draw and haven’t done so for a while. This book has made me want to do so again. I know others have said the sentiments are quite clichèd, but I think they touch your heart.Thank you Charlie. Xx

I have bought this at least a dozen times and given it to friends and family. I’ve given it as birthday and Xmas presents and also instead of a bereavement card. Suitable for all age groups - so simple but such beautiful sentiment. You can pick it up every time you’re in need of a hug or inspiration. I can’t recommend enough!

Bought for us both as we had watched the films about the author and book itself over Christmas and we rewatched the fims many times crying at the 4 characters and their life messages.....absolutely magical we just had to buy the books which were great value.

This book is so thoughtfully put together in words, illustrations and even its presentation in hardback copy. I received a copy from a friend as a gift, and I too have purchased numerous copies to pass on to others. I would recommend you get a copy, but don't keep it to yourself. Once read, buy another, and pass it on to someone else, and share the love and kindness that warmed your heart when you read it and, on occasions, return to read it once again!

After seeing the film on TV just had to buy the book for my grandson. He is a sensitive boy and he really relates to the books style. Such wonderful nuggets of relating and living. It's presented in such a way it can touch you at any age and makes you hope to create a kinder world.

It is easy to digest and reflect on with the simple wording and wonderful artwork. A friend who struggles to read due to dyslexia was able to follow and absorb it easily and treasures it greatly

After watching the TV production I was motivated to buy the book. It is bigger and thicker than I expected. It is really good quality with good quality pages. The quotes are inspiring and uplifting and work so well with the stunningly beautiful art. I give this book a full five stars. I keep this near my morning coffee table in the window, I look through any page and there’s an inspirational at every page. It’s first need to be read front to back…