The Moomins – 80 years of cuddly wisdom
They are white, round, and a little bit quirky, with a snout that slightly resembles a hippopotamus. You might not expect it, but these unique trolls have held a special place in the hearts of young and old for eighty years: the Moomins. It's time to get to know them (again).
The Moomins live in a green valley, in a blue house where the door is always open. They experience adventures, make mistakes, forge friendships, and show that everyone belongs. Perhaps you know them from cartoons, an old book, or those famous mugs you suddenly see everywhere. But the world of the Moomins is much more than cute illustrations – it's a world full of fantasy, comfort, and small life lessons.
Born in difficult times
The Moomins were created by Tove Jansson, a Finnish-Swedish writer and illustrator. During World War II, she began writing the first Moomin stories. In an uncertain and sometimes frightening time, she created a place where gentleness, adventure, and hope were central.
The first Moomin book was published in 1945. This means the Moomins celebrated their 80th birthday in 2025. Since then, the stories have been translated into more than sixty languages and read by generations of children (and adults who secretly enjoy them just as much).
Gentle life lessons for children (and parents)
What makes Moomin so special is that the stories perfectly resonate with what children feel and experience. Being scared, being curious, wanting to be alone or together – everything is allowed to be.
- Moominmamma is always calm and caring, with a listening ear and something tasty in the house. She represents unconditional love.
- Snufkin shows how wonderful freedom and simplicity can be, to go your own way and not want to hold onto everything.
- Moomintroll is curious, sometimes insecure but always open to new adventures. He teaches us that it's okay to doubt, as long as you are open to other ideas.
The Moomins give children words for their feelings and encourage conversations – something we at Ollebol & Muis find incredibly valuable.
The Moomins' message is gentle yet powerful: you don't have to be perfect. You can be yourself. And there is always a place for you.
Scandinavian happiness for every day
Besides books and stories, the Moomins are also an integral part of Scandinavian design. From tableware to textiles and small utility items: everything exudes that typical tranquility and simplicity that Finland and Scandinavia are so known for.
Why the Moomins are so wonderful now
In a world that can sometimes be busy and overwhelming, the Moomins invite us to slow down. To read together, to talk, and to reflect on what is important. They show that feelings are allowed and that happiness is often found in the small things. A walk in nature, drinking tea together, or simply not having to do anything. A moment of peace with a beautiful notebook to write down your thoughts or stories.
Discover Moomin at Ollebol & Muis
Do you want to rediscover Moomin or introduce it to your child? At Ollebol & Muis, we have some beautiful Moomin products, for example for your child's room. But we also have nice products for young adults.
Start with a notebook, a Moomin angel chime, or use your Moomin shopper and create a small ritual with a Moomin product from our webshop.
At Ollebol & Muis, we choose products with a story – and Moomin is a wonderful example of this. Timeless, loving, and made to enjoy together. Because if the Moomins teach us anything, it's this: take your time, be gentle with yourself and each other – and make ordinary moments something special. 🌿✨
xx
Céline
