How to Hold a Cockroach: The inspiring parable about self-compassion, mindfulness, philosophical reflection, and emotional healing

A tale for all ages on how to free ourselves from our inherited beliefs.

A suffering boy begins a life-changing journey when a menacing cockroach disturbs
his dinner and scares him. But why is he so afraid of the cockroach? What does he
actually know about it? Maybe cockroaches aren’t all that different from me... he thinks
to himself.

As he continues to encounter apparent sources of suffering throughout his day, his
curiosity and realization about the cockroach stays with him, causing him to
investigate the truths he’s held onto about himself, love, life, the past, the future, and
more. Can the boy let go of these beliefs to free himself and experience all life has to
offer?

Through a series of poignant chapter refrains, How to Hold a
Cockroach invites us to explore how we see ourselves and the world, re-examine our
perspectives, and free ourselves to experience more joy, peace, and love. It is a love
letter to humankind, and a book for those who are free and don't yet know it.

© Matthew Maxwell 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026