The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse

by Charlie Mackesy
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Graphic Novels / Comics
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Format • £9.48–£19.00
Waterstones
Hardback • £20.00–£22.00
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Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 3587
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781473571686
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2019-10-10
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse is a timeless story that follows the journey of a curious boy, a greedy mole, a wary fox, and a wise horse as they navigate challenging terrain together. Through their adventures, they share their deepest fears and greatest discoveries about vulnerability, kindness, hope, friendship, and love. This special fifth anniversary edition features midnight blue cloth binding, a sky blue ribbon marker, gold gilded page edges, and exclusive new artworks and a message from the author, Charlie Mackesy. The book has been adapted into a BAFTA and Academy Award-winning animated short film, further cementing its place as a beloved work of art that resonates with readers of all ages.

Reviews
The Cor Chronicle · 2023-11-08
comforting 4.50

The book beautifully captures universal struggles like suffering, loneliness, and uncertainty, presenting them as part of life's journey. It offers a comforting perspective on these shared experiences.

The reviewer highlights how the book addresses profound themes like suffering, loneliness, and uncertainty with a gentle touch. They appreciate how it normalizes these struggles, making them feel like part of a shared human experience. The simplicity and warmth of the book's message resonate deeply, offering comfort and a sense of connection. The reviewer also praises the book's ability to make complex emotions accessible and relatable, making it a meaningful read for anyone grappling with life's challenges.

Quick quotes

    This book shows you that suffering, loneliness and uncertainty are struggles that we all grapple with in life, and are all part of the journey.

    It beautifully captures the essence of shared human experiences.

    The book offers a comforting perspective on these universal struggles.

What's On Sid's Mind · 2022-03-13
heartfelt 4.00

The book is loved for its whimsical illustrations and profound empathy, making it a heartfelt and meaningful read. The reviewer suggests listening to the book for a deeper experience.

The reviewer expresses a deep appreciation for the book's whimsical illustrations and the profound empathy it conveys. They find the book to be heartfelt and meaningful, suggesting that listening to it might enhance the experience. The simplicity of the book's messages, combined with its emotional depth, makes it a standout piece of literature. The reviewer also highlights how the book appeals to both children and adults, making it a versatile and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    This is a lovely book. I love Charlie's whimsical illustrations and his profound empathy.

    I read the book, but I think that I should listen to it.

    The simplicity of the book's messages, combined with its emotional depth, makes it a standout piece of literature.

The Guardian · 2019-11-09
delightful 4.50

The book is celebrated for its themes of courage, love, and friendship, making it a heartwarming read. It's seen as a delightful and uplifting piece of literature.

The reviewer is delighted by the book's focus on courage, love, and friendship, especially in difficult times. They find it to be a lovely and uplifting read that brings joy and hope. The book's ability to touch on deep emotions while maintaining a sense of warmth and positivity is particularly praised. It's seen as a perfect gift that resonates with readers of all ages, offering a message of hope and connection.

Quick quotes

    We've been absolutely delighted – it's such a lovely book, about having courage in difficult times, about love and friendship and how that...

    It's a heartwarming and uplifting read that brings joy and hope.

    The book's ability to touch on deep emotions while maintaining a sense of warmth and positivity is particularly praised.

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