"What is it?" said Moomintroll. Discoveries were his very favourite thing (after mysterious paths, swimming and secrets, that is).
Tove Jansson, from the book The Moomins and the great flood
I think I’m beginning to understand now,” said Moomintroll slowly. “You aren’t a collector any longer, are you? Now you are just an owner. That’s nowhere near as much fun.” “No,” said the Hemulen thoroughly dejected. “It is most decidedly nowhere near as much fun.
Tove Jansson, from the book Finn Family Moomintroll
Lie on the bridge and watch the water flowing past. Or run, or wade through the swamp in your red boots. Or roll yourself up and listen to the rain falling on the roof. It’s very easy to enjoy yourself.
Mymble, from the book Moominvalley in November
"A theatre is the most important sort of house in the world, because that’s where people are shown what they could be if they wanted, and what they’d like to be if they dared to and what they really are."
Tove Jansson, from the book Moominsummer Madness.
Maybe my passion is nothing special, but at least it’s mine.
Tove Jansson, from the book Travelling Light
It’s funny about love’, Sophia said. ‘The more you love someone, the less he likes you back.’ ‘That’s very true,’ Grandmother observed. ‘And so what do you do?’ ‘You go on loving,’ said Sophia threateningly. ‘You love harder and harder.
Tove Jansson, from the book The Summer Book
One summer morning at sunrise a long time ago
I met a little girl with a book under her arm.
I asked her why she was out so early and
she answered that there were too many books and
far too little time. And there she was absolutely right.
Snorkmaiden stood with her ears drooping. Moomintroll pressed his snout against hers and said, “There’s no need to pretend that you are radiantly beautiful, because you are. Don’t worry, we can play ‘damsel in distress’ tomorrow instead.”
Tove Jansson, from the book Moominsummer Madness.
It looks rather ordinary,” said the Snork. “Unless you consider that a top hat is always somewhat extraordinary, of course.
Snork, from the book Finn Family Moomintroll
I feel rather nice, and I like truth when it isn’t too boring.
Tove Jansson, from the book The Exploits of Moominpappa
Listen, take off your dress for a minute will you? said the Snork. What? said the Hemulen. Take off my dress? Yes, they all shouted. We want to make a balloon out of it.
Tove Jansson - from the book Comet in Moominland
Gee! cried the Muddler. Dear me, I have lots and lots to do! Such a long journey… such a new life… And the Muddler rushed off spattering paint in all directions
The Muddler - from the book The Exploits of Moominpappa