The Faraway Forest: Wally’s Route

by Debbie Fong, Kayla Catanzaro (Colorist)

Welcome to Faraway Forest, a magical woodland village home to an assortment of adorable animal characters, including a sweet and dedicated raccoon named Wally and a loyal white rabbit named Bo. Perfect for kids who love Animal Crossing!

A colorful cast of animal friends stars in this charming new young readers’ graphic novel series by award-winning author-illustrator Debbie Fong.



Wally, the Faraway Forest’s mail carrier, always tries his best. In addition to delivering packages of every shape and size, he and Bo, his best friend, also deliver kindness and a helping hand along the way. But can they win over their grumpiest neighbor, the cantankerous Mr. Sternbill? Wally and Bo are definitely going to try!



Follow this pair of friends as they discover the power of kindness and community in the first book in The Faraway Forest series.

GREAT FOR NEW Wonderfully relatable characters, sweet humor, and comic-style layouts make this series ideal for emerging and independent readers. A playful seek-and-find challenge and a “how to draw” section add some interactive fun to the experience!



GRAPHIC NOVEL Kids love graphic novels! There’s a ton of excitement among young readers about including illustrated chapter books and graphic novel-style stories in their reading choices. This series will be a delight for visually oriented kids.



A RELAXING ANIMAL Stepping into the Faraway Forest is as charming and immersive as playing Animal Crossing or Littlest Pet Shop. Parents, caregivers, and kids can all enjoy the cozy vibes of this magical woodland world.



RELUCTANT READER This book's simple text, short chapters, and engaging artwork make it perfect for readers of all interests and abilities, including less enthusiastic readers.



COZY GIFT FOR ALL With a classic feel and stories that are centered around themes of kindness, community, and inclusivity, The Faraway Forest series will make a warm and welcome gift for birthdays, back-to-school, holidays, or any special occasion.

Perfect


Children ages 5 to 8 years old


Family and classroom read-aloud book


Early, emergent, and reluctant readers


Fans of friendship book series like Fox & Chick, Frog and Toad, and Elephant & Piggie

Genres: Graphic Novels, Middle Grade, Animals, Childrens, Fiction, Comics, Picture Books

88 pages, Hardcover

First published September 9, 2025

Reviews

[Bookishrealm · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Faraway Forest is a sweet entry level graphic novel for ages 6-9. I read Debbie Fong's graphic novel, Next Stop, last year and absolutely adored it. This read was no different. Though it is simple in narrative, the artwork shines and really encompasses what it means to be a part of a community. This definitely has potential to be a series, but it also works very well as a standalone. If you or a younger is interested in getting into graphic novels for kids, this is a good place to start.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute graphic novel for kids that highlights the importance of hard work, diligence, and friendship. My dad was a mail carrier for many years and he is named Wally so I had to read this. The seek and find in each chapter was also fun.

Note: I also posted this review to the Manchester, CT Public Library Goodreads account.

[Hannah Showalter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for work, sooo cute and sweet with great messages about friendship and how important it is to rest!

[Ronan Crutchfield]

I liked the bright colors and the adorable animals!

[Brittany Lutz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Goodreads, the author, and Hachette Book Group for choosing me in the giveaway to win this book! It is absolutely adorable and I want to live in this world. I love the little animal character designs, they’re just too cute!!

[Kendall Santoro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fong’s graphic novel is a wonderful addition to any classroom library. Fong and Catanzaro’s illustrations are vibrant, comforting, and reminiscent of many modern children’s cartoons and games. The story follows the mailman, Wally the raccoon, and Bo the rabbit as they deliver packages to all the residents in the forest. Their most challenging encounter is the grouchy Mr. Sternbill, who tests the limits of Wally’s patience and kindness. Still, Wally responds with kindness and a helpful attitude. Eventually, Wally’s positivity makes an impact on Mr. Sternbill, leading him to cooperate with Wally’s assistance. Wally’s passionate work ethic eventually gets him into trouble, as he’s determined to make all his deliveries during a storm. Wally gets sick, and his community bands together to help Wally in his time of need. Fong uses classic anthropomorphic character tropes to create a valuable story of kindness, empathy, and patience. This is a wise choice for any classroom as the colorful illustrations encourage young readers to read as well as keep them invested in the story. Teachers could guide students who are struggling with reading towards this book.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was cute and I loved the pictures and the adorable whimsical characters. I think it teaches kids a few good life lessons along the way on what is a cute short little adventure as a mail carrier in a whimsical forest with adorable critters.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is absolutely charming. Perfect for earlier elementary readers

[Lizzieb123 · Rating 5 out of 5]

GAH THIS WAS SO CUTE

[Megan Sanks]

LOVED. However, I'm annoyed that it contains the myth that one gets a cold from being out in the rain. Rain does not spread viruses!!

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I guess I’m getting into children’s graphic novels this year but I can’t complain

[sea ʚ♡ɞ · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

i have not reviewed children’s books before so i didn’t know what i would have to say about this book but as it turns out, more than i thought i would:

i was originally interested in this book for the absolutely adorable art style of our main character, wally. i like graphic novels & especially ones with cute critters. this one especially has a cute plot line of his mail delivery.

wally is a dedicated mail delivery worker who helps out his neighbors whenever he can. he encounters different circumstances with cute little rhyming mottos for how to deal with it.

there are cute tidbits like find & seek throughout the book and a little how to draw wally & bo at the end that i think really would add to the experience for children reading it!

even as an adult reading this, i thought this book was really cute & fun. i will definitely have to keep my eye out for this series when they come to get for the littles in my life!

[Tori DeFazio · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faraway Forest: Wally’s Route is an absolutely delightful graphic novel that is perfect for kids 5+ years old. This story follows Wally the raccoon and his really important job- delivering mail! Always found with his best friend, the white rabbit Bo, Wally takes us on adventures throughout the forest. The beautiful illustrations and the message of being good and kind to ALL is what made this story so enjoyable to me. I also love that the author included a seek and find page at the beginning of the book- it gives children and added challenge of finding certain symbols while reading! Highly recommend. 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read the graphic novel The Faraway Forest: Wally’s Route

[Ani · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute and wholesome read! Perfect for anyone who needs just a quick little moment of happiness! Also a great way to teach young kids the importance of community!

The art style is my favorite style I've ever seen in a graphic novel! I love the whimsy and the colorful, textured style! Very reminiscent of some of my favorite artists and illustrators online!

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: The Faraway Forest: Wally’s Route by Debbie Fong
Rating: 4.5/5

Analysis & Thematic Depth
Debbie Fong’s The Faraway Forest: Wally’s Route is a heartwarming graphic novel that blends cozy aesthetics with gentle life lessons, perfect for emerging readers. The book’s strength lies in its vibrant, Animal Crossing-inspired world, where anthropomorphic characters like Wally the raccoon and Bo the rabbit model kindness and perseverance. Fong’s comic-style layouts and seek-and-find elements cater to visual learners, while the how-to-draw section adds interactive appeal.

Thematically, the story emphasizes community and inclusivity, though its conflict (winning over grumpy Mr. Sternbill) follows a predictable arc. Younger audiences will appreciate the simplicity, but parents might wish for more nuanced character development. The 88-page length feels ideal for attention spans, though the worldbuilding hints at richer lore that could be expanded in future installments.

Reader Reactions & Emotional Impact
As someone less familiar with rating children’s literature, I was charmed by the book’s tactile pleasures—the hardcover’s weight, the matte pages, and Fong’s warm color palette. Wally’s earnestness reminded me of Frog and Toad, evoking nostalgia for classic friendship tales. The scene where Wally delivers a package to Mr. Sternbill with unwavering cheerfulness resonated deeply; it’s a subtle lesson in empathy that never feels didactic.

However, I occasionally questioned whether the seek-and-find elements might distract reluctant readers from the narrative flow. My test audience adored the illustrations but skipped ahead to spot hidden details—a testament to the art’s allure, if not the text’s grip.

Constructive Criticism
-Character Depth: Mr. Sternbill’s grumpiness could benefit from a hint of backstory to humanize his resistance.
-Pacing: Short chapters are accessible, but some transitions feel abrupt; adding connective tissue (e.g., seasonal changes) might enhance immersion.
-Diversity: While the cast is anthropomorphically diverse, incorporating more explicit themes of cultural inclusivity could broaden appeal.
-Interactive Balance: Integrate seek-and-find items more organically with plot points to sustain narrative focus.

How I would describe this book:
- A Frog and Toad for the Animal Crossing generation—where every page feels like a hug
- Fong’s Faraway Forest is the cozy, kind-hearted escape that today’s kids (and parents) need
- Perfect for reluctant readers: where seek-and-find fun meets heartfelt storytelling
- Wally the raccoon delivers more than mail—he delivers hope, one adorable page at a time

Personal Remarks
Reading this under a blanket fort, I marveled at how Fong’s art—especially the willow-dappled landscapes—evoked the same wonder I felt discovering The Wind in the Willows as a child. The hardback’s durability survived toddler hands, and the story’s repetition (Wally always tries his best!) became a comforting mantra. Still, I caught myself wishing for a map of Faraway Forest—a missed opportunity to deepen the world’s magic.

Gratitude
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for the stunning hardcover copy. The colorful cover and thick pages elevate this from a children’s book to a keepsake. I think any parent would be proud to have this on their children's bookshelf.

Final Verdict
4.5/5—A visually lush and morally tender debut that balances playfulness with purpose. While its simplicity may not challenge advanced readers, it’s a near-perfect gateway to graphic novels for ages 5–8. Best enjoyed with a flashlight and a sense of adventure.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engage early readers with a graphic novel collection of four stories about Wally, the raccoon, and Bo, his loyal companion. In the Faraway Forest, there is a community of animals that are all friendly and help each other out…all but one grumpy resident. Wally, as the mail carrier, greets everyone with a smile and happily hands over their mail. But, when it is time to climb the hill to Mr. Sternbill’s house, Wally never knows what kind of mood he’ll find Mr. Sternbill in.

Wally visits everyone on his daily mail route with Bo traveling alongside him. It doesn’t matter whether it is storming outside or if someone has a heavy package that needs to be delivered, Wally makes sure the job is done well, and he is kind to everyone he sees.

Each chapter or story has items to look for on the pages that add a bit of an adventure to the reading experience. Since it is a graphic novel, it is set up like a comic book with minimal words and detailed illustrations that easily tell the story as much as the words do. This longer story offers a way for early readers to be encouraged to read more pages and expand their comprehension.

Throughout the stories, Wally offers bits of advice on being a good person, a hard worker, and how to treat others. These mottos have a bit of a rhyming feature and will be easy for kids to remember and adopt as their own mottos. These life lessons on kindness, patience, and hard work are great values for kids to learn through the guise of a cute raccoon. Wally reminds all of us to be a “First Class” person and to make everyone we meet a “Priority”.

The end of the book includes a peek inside the tree house that Wally and Bo live in, as well as drawing lessons for How to Draw Wally and Bo. The art of letter writing and getting mail doesn’t hold the same kind of excitement it did when I was a child. My mom was a mail carrier, and my dad worked at the post office later in his life, so the United States Postal Service has always been special to me and my family. Reading this book with your child, then writing a letter to someone, and visiting your local post office would make this a great learning experience for your child.

[Cuppa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wally's Route is the first book in author/artist Debbie Fong's new graphic novel series for newly independent readers, The Faraway Forest. Wally, a raccoon mail carrier, is devoted to his job, done with the help of Bo, his loyal rabbit friend. One day, several mishaps cause Wally to be late delivering an important package to a grumpy customer. Wally is crushed by his failure to fulfill his duty. Then he becomes ill. Wally fears everyone will be angry with him, but he is about to be surprised. By the end of the book, Wally learns that it's okay for him to take care of himself and that it's even okay for him to depend on others for help. Wally's Route is a great age-appropriate introduction to the ideas of community, responsibility, service, and self-care. The colorful artwork is cute, and the story has both sweet and funny moments. The plot may seem to be on the simple side, but don't miss out on the big lessons woven in. Wally's Route would make a great addition to library and classroom collections, or a lovely gift to a cherished child.

[Randi Penner · Rating 3 out of 5]

The illustrations in The Faraway Forest: Wally's Route are quite charming—after all, who doesn’t love a mail-carrying raccoon? Features like the search-and-find activities within the chapters and the instructions on how to draw Wally are great additions that will really engage younger readers. The story itself is predictable but cozy, with village vibes that feel like a blend of Animal Crossing and The Hundred Acre Woods. There’s a lot to like about this book. However, I was bothered by the character Bo, who is a pet but talks like the people. It reminded me too much of Pluto, Mickey Mouse’s pet—except Pluto doesn’t speak. Every time Bo spoke, I was pulled out of the story’s whimsy and found myself questioning why Bo is the only animal that walks on four legs and talks. While everything else is lovely, this aspect was problematic for me.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC.

[Lauri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complementary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The Faraway Forest: Wally's Route is the tale of Wally Raccoon and his best buddy Bo Rabbit, as they deliver mail to their neighbors. There are trials and tribulations along the way, but Wally does his best to be kind, to be patient, to deliver the mail in a timely fashion every day, and to take care of himself. These life messages are delivered along the way, to Bo, and to the reader. In addition, this charming story is told in four chapters, through graphic illustrations and text. There are Seek and Find objects to find in each chapter, a diagram of Wally and Bo's Burrow, as well as instructions on how to draw Wally and how to draw Bo. I love the interactivity built into this book, the life messages delivered, as well as the engaging story line. A super read for beginning readers.

[RachsReadingNook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a charming graphic novel that introduces readers to Wally the Raccoon and his bunny friend, Bo. As they deliver mail to the residents of the Faraway Forest, they share catchy mottos that make the journey even more fun.

This heartwarming story is brought to life with beautiful artwork, and my favorite feature is the "seek and find" element in each chapter. Even in wordless scenes, the illustrations keep you engaged as you hunt for hidden images. Plus, the book includes a “How to Draw” section for Wally and Bo at the end—such a fun addition for young readers!

Perfect for grades K-2, this graphic novel is a delightful mix of adventure, creativity, and interactive storytelling.

I received an advanced copy with no obligation to review. All thoughts are my own and completely unbiased.

[The Unschoolers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok we just got this approved from NetGalley today and have already read it twice. Will 100% be purchasing for our collection as soon as it's released! My 8yo (who has recently discovered animal crossing) loved this one and my almost 4yo was completely enamored with the illustrations. There is very minimal text in this graphic novel, making it perfect for a younger audience OR struggling readers who are easily overwhelmed (like my 8yo). There is plenty to look at on each page and the whole vibe is charming and sweet. Was able to read aloud the entire thing in 10 minutes and then my kids went back to look through the story again slowly and talk about what was on each page.

Thanks to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for the ARC!

[Kiara Brinkman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Fong has created such a sweet and cozy world. Really, this book is the equivalent of a hug or a cup of hot cocoa.
Wally, a raccoon, who descends from a long line of mail carriers, takes his job of delivering mail very seriously. Bo, a rabbit, is Wally's best friend and helper. As the story unfolds, we see that Wally and Bo provide much more than reliable delivery service, including kindness, friendship, and helping hands to anyone in need. Key themes of strength through community, inclusion, perseverance, and person care make great topics for further conversation with children.
Our kids love the Seek & Find element, as well as the Bonus Pages, featuring a detailed illustration of Wally and Bo's burrow, and instructions for drawing the main characters.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Graphic Novel
I received an electronic ARC from Chronicle Books through NetGalley.
Wally is a dedicated mail carrier in the forest. Together with his best friend Bo, they make the journey every day to deliver mail and packages to the other animals. He shares his mottos of kindness and patience and models them well for everyone he engages with. This makes him a bit slow to deliver the mail sometimes but it makes him a good friend and support. Readers see how this is reciprical when he gets sick and the others take care of him.
Brightly colored illustrations for readers to study to flesh out the text.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE FARAWAY FOREST: WALLY’S ROUTE is a sweet early graphic novel perfect for young readers. The book follows Wally, a raccoon, and his buddy Bo, a bunny, as they deliver mail to the woodland creatures that live in the forest. Wally is a dedicated mail carrier, working hard to do his job until one day he gets sick. He worries that the other animals will be disappointed but soon learns that his community rallies to support him. The story’s messages about kindness and community are delivered with a cozy feel and colorful, eye-catching illustrations. Readers will be left wanting more of Wally’s adventures!

[Leonie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I requested this ARC solely because of the adorable cover and I’m really glad I did so.

The art style is colourful and so cute.

The protagonist Wally, a raccoon mail carrier, is a kind and dedicated hero, and his friendship with Bo the bunny was lovely to read about.

Though the book is aimed at children, The Faraway Forest: Wally’s Route totally won me over. It’s a quick, wholesome, and charming read that’s perfect for anyone in need of a feel-good story.


Thank you to the publisher for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachel Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first in a new series for young readers, The Faraway Forest was absolutely charming! Wally and Bo are your friendly neighborhood mail carriers. Equipped with a sturdy mail bag and encouraging mottos, the duo spread kindness and cheer wherever they go.

With an adorable art style and quick chapters, readers of Narwhal & Jelly and Pup & Dragon will love this one!

I also really appreciated the interactive tidbits (hidden pictures and how-to-draw) thrown in at the beginning and end of the book. Kids will love those!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

[Jester · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fun, short children's book that is a mix of a picture book and a graphic novel. It is about a raccoon and a bunny that deliver mail in Faraway Forest.

The art is cute. I like the designs of the animals, especially Wally's design.

There are four chapters in total. All linked together. I didn't like the stories that much. Maybe younger readers will.

Note: Using new rating system starting 2025.

[Sophy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a cute kids’ book about a raccoon who delivers mail, though one of the recipients is particularly grumpy. One day, the grumpy villager tells him they are expecting a very important letter. However, as the raccoon helps the other villagers along his route, the letter is delivered late. When he falls ill, the entire village, including the grumpy villager, comes together to show their appreciation for everything he does.

[LeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You know my motto: To all you meet, be good and kind - you never know what's on their mind."

Gorgeous and inviting drawings with a perfectly timed story about neighborhood and community, and even taking good care of yourself.
I adore Wally and his partner Bo, and their little forest village.

Especially perfect for fans of Animal Crossing, this picture book should be a hit with all ages. Even Mr. Sternbill.

"To do your best, you need to rest."

Bonus drawing ideas at the end!

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an early graphic novel for approximately the first or second grade. In it, we have Wally, the raccoon and their best bud rabbit and they deliver the mail every day. They’re always on time, always have a sunny disposition, and always get things done even in the pouring rain. But when that rain leads to a cold, the community will come out and support their mail carrier. This story is simple and joyful. It’s a great lesson for kids and adult adults alike.