At a time of global conflict and division, a new children’s book by Mullumbimby artist and author Madeline Hill is encouraging young readers to rediscover the value of small acts of kindness – starting with a simple letter.
Ms Hill’s latest book, Snail Mail, tells the story of a gentle snail, Boris Brown, who delivers caring messages to friends, offering what the author describes as a reminder that connection and compassion can still flourish in uncertain times.
‘The world is pretty crazy at the moment,’ she says.
‘It’s time to slow down and remember we’re all connected. We can choose to be kind, like Boris, and make the world a little bit sweeter for all.’
The rhyming picture book follows Boris as he travels from friend to friend delivering handwritten notes to a cast of animal characters, including a bunny, frog, dog, bee, and owl – each with their own personalities and challenges.
Ms Hill, known locally for her colourful artwork and distinctive illustration style, said the idea for the book grew from a desire to focus on gratitude and care at a moment when many people feel increasingly disconnected.
‘It’s a book about kindness and expressing our care for friends,’ she says.
‘I think that’s pretty important in the world at the moment when there’s so much division – just putting gratitude and kindness at the forefront.’
The book also includes an interactive element, with small envelopes containing letters throughout the story and a blank letter tucked into a pocket at the back, encouraging children to write their own message to someone they care about.
Ms Hill said the character of Boris – a slow-moving snail – was chosen deliberately as a counterpoint to modern life’s pace.
‘It’s about slowing down,’ she says, ‘and taking the time to reach out’.
As communities continue to navigate global uncertainty alongside everyday local challenges, Ms Hill hopes the story will prompt conversations between children and families about empathy, communication, and connection.
Through the quiet journey of one small snail, Snail Mail delivers a message that resonates far beyond the page: even the smallest gestures can carry meaning in difficult times.
To get a copy of Snail Mail visit the author’s webpage: www.moonfacemaddy.com.
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