For when you’re going through the storms of life…

Titles: Big Panda and Tiny Dragon/The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Authors: James Norbury/Charlie Mackesy
Genre: Fiction, Graphic Novel, Philosophy

Big Panda and Tiny Dragon and The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse are very similar stories that focus on life lessons, philosophical teachings, and advice delivered in a picture book format. If you’re feeling sad or anxious, or if you’re trying to find meaning and purpose, these are great books to help. While you can read each one in about 20 minutes, they are worthy of multiple re-reads. You will take away different messages depending on where you are at in your life. Considering the trials and tribulations that we have all experienced over the past few years, now is the time to pick up these thought-provoking novels. 

Pros: 
Impactful, heartwarming, and thought-provoking 
In both books, the authors focus on friendship, love, and the meaning of life. Some of the teachings are things we have all heard before while others have a fresh take that makes you pause and consider the impact of the lesson. Some of my favorites are below…

‘Which is more important,’ asked Big Panda, ‘the journey or the destination?’ 
‘The company,’ said Tiny Dragon. 

“Is your glass half empty or half full?” asked the mole. 
“I think I’m grateful to have a glass,” said the boy. 

‘We’re lost again,’ said Big Panda.
‘When I’m lost,’ said Tiny Dragon, ‘I find it helps to go back to the beginning and try to remember why I started.’ 

Quick reads
Like I mentioned earlier, you can read each book in about 20 minutes. If you’re struggling to devote more than 30 minutes to any one thing, then you should pick up either of these books. You’ll have read an inspiring story and can walk away hopefully feeling a bit more peaceful and calm. 

Good for all ages
Whether you’re reading it to a child or if you’re reading it for yourself, both books provide a great story and the value you get from them will vary depending on your age and situation. They are not emotionally heavy books that will overwhelm a child. Both books are easy to approach and the messages are delivered in a calming, heartwarming way. 

Overall…
My family recently experienced a tragedy… a cherished, young family member passed away. In the midst of the grief and shock, I read both of these novels to try to start the healing process on our weaving and winding path to peace. They helped me during my period of anguish and I want to share them with anyone else who may be going through the storms of life.