The Three Mulla-mulgars

by Walter De la Mare

"The Three Mulla-mulgars" by Walter De la Mare is a whimsical children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces us to the adventures of three young Mulgars—Thumb, Thimble, and Nod—who are sons of an old fruit-monkey named Mutta-matutta. After a series of tribulations, including the departure of their father, they embark on a journey to seek their uncle Assasimmon in the enchanting Valleys of Tishnar, facing trials and challenges in a richly imagined world. The opening of the novel sets a vivid scene in the mysterious Forest of Munza-mulgar, where we meet Mutta-matutta and her three sons, living in a decrepit hut filled with heirlooms from their ancestors. Following the departure of their father, Seelem, in search of adventure and riches, the brothers are eventually left to fend for themselves after the death of their mother. As they navigate life without her, they are driven by the promise of their father's legacy and the beauty of the Valleys of Tishnar. Each character is infused with unique charm and personality, and the narrative style, filled with imaginative language and enchanting lore, engages readers in their quirky adventures and the themes of loyalty, bravery, and the longing for belonging.