When a charismatic prophet comes to town, the residents of Moominvalley are easily convinced to follow his doctrine for true happiness. Intrigued by their friends and neighbours lifestyle changes, the impression- able Moomins find themselves attempting to adopt the teachings of their new spiritual leader. But the freer they get, the more miser- able they feel. Moominvalley s state of divine chaos is further complicated by the proph- et s well-intentioned decree to free all of the jail s inmates. Moomin Begins a New Life is an eccentric all-ages adventure from the acclaimed Finnish cartoonist Tove Jansson that explores the appeal of self-transformation and the pursuit of happiness culture is that she addresses serious, often uncomfortable issues uncertainty, heart-break, mortality, natural disasters, our ample human imperfections with great compassion and warmth, never chastising or preaching but instead celebrating the light in life and aiming its generous beam at the dark. Maria Popova, Brainpickings
