Perfect Book ~ Right Time

My time is not my own right now, and my reading has fallen to the wayside. Let’s just say, it’s almost over and things are not going in favor for our little neighborhood association — as the saying goes, you can’t fight city hall, or it turns out, a rich, private school.

Several weeks ago, a package arrived on my doorstep – a book from a dear friend who lives five hours away.

Quite unexpected, because no one ever gives me books – being naturally afraid either; I already have it (very likely), I’ve already read it (also highly probable), or I knew about it and just wasn’t interested (happens frequently). But this little gem was totally unknown to me.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse

by Charlie Macksey

Too exhausted to read anything dense late one evening, I sat down with this little treasure and started with the introduction — which talks directly to the reader. This caught me off guard and drew me right into this fairy tale-fantasy-picture book.

Called a book of hope for uncertain times, it did seem to speak to my poor soul — so bruised as it is right now.

It’s a simple story with some lovely art.

There’s a lonely boy, who meets a mole who loves cake, a wary fox, and a gentle horse.

There is a sweet simplicity yet complexity in the inspirational messages.

“What do you think is the biggest waste of time?
Comparing yourself to others, said the mole.”

Then this illustration stopped me cold — I stared sadly at it for a long time.

As I slowly turned the pages, I read about friendship, hope, hugs, cake and slowly felt my shoulders relax and my stress level lower.

“We often wait for kindness….but being kind to yourself can start now.”

I was reminded of Winne the Pooh or The Little Prince, both of which offer wisdom for adults and fantasy for children.

As you can see, the illustrations with their lines and brush strokes are delightful. The artwork fairly glows off the pages. You’ll want to hold the book in your hands, turn the pages yourself, and see the magic for yourself.

Fair warning, the book has been criticized as cliched and saccharine, and perhaps it is.

But for me – it was the perfect book at the right time.

I went to bed wonderfully comforted and ready to sleep.

And, as I drifted off, I thought I need to revisit Pooh and his merry band