History teacher Taylor Sweeney is currently reading the children’s novel “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” by Charlie Mackesy.

“It’s an amazing story, and my kid’s favorite,” Sweeny said. “I like it because it teaches younger kids to be grateful.”

The story follows a young boy who is lost and looking for his home. On his journey, the boy meets a mole, a fox, and a horse. The group develops an unlikely friendship as the animals help the boy along his journey. 

Each animal in the story is meant to symbolize a different message for kids. The mole offers companionship, the fox represents freedom, and the horse represents wisdom. Through their journey, the characters discover that ‘home’ is not a place, but rather the feeling of being loved and building friendship.

“[The characters ] become a little family,” Sweeney said. “I chose this book, because it stresses being kind to people and each other.”

Charlie Mackesy is a children’s illustrator and author born in 1962 in the United Kingdom. Mackesy was recognized as the illustrator of the year by the British Book Awards. Additionally, Mackesy has won an Oscar for the film adaptation of “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” in 2023. Now, Mackesy has published a follow up book featuring the main characters of “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” called “Always Remember.”

“I honestly think everyone should read this book,” Sweeney said. “I know it’s meant for kids, but it has a great overall message.”

The book teaches the readers the importance of friendship, kindness, and courage.