The Faraway Forest: Hester's Big Dream

By Debbie Fong

Welcome to The Faraway Forest, a graphic novel series for early readers about a magical woodland village that's home to an assortment of adorable animal characters. Perfect for kids who love Animal Crossing

Hester has just moved to the Faraway Forest. As a night owl, she loves to rise just as the sun sets, and she keeps herself busy all night with her hobbies: dancing, cooking, writing, and costume making. But Hester wonders if there are new friends to be made when the sun is out. Can she stay awake long enough to find out? Or will she discover there is more to the mysterious forest night than she imagines? Either way, Hester is definitely going to have an adventure

For readers who love The Faraway Forest: Wally's Route or anyone new to this lively illustrated series, good feelings and great fun await in this delightful story.

"In this sweetly humorous, thoughtfully paced story world, Fong offers a gentle reminder that community is built on empathy and care. As inviting as a warm hug, this title delivers first-class appeal." ―Booklist on Book 1

GREAT FOR NEW READERS: Wonderfully relatable characters, sweet humor, and comic-style layouts make this series ideal for emerging and independent readers. Playful challenges, including a seek-and-find and spot-the-difference, and a "how to draw" section, add some interactive fun to the experience

GRAPHIC NOVEL FUN: 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 WORLD: 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 APPEAL: 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 OCCASIONS: 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.

Brooklyn, NY

Perfect for:

Readers ages 5 to 8 years oldFans of young graphic novelsFamily and classroom read-aloud bookEarly, emergent, and reluctant readersFans of friendship book series like Fox & Chick, Frog and Toad, and Elephant & Piggie

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1797230433
• ISBN13: 9781797230436
• Release Date: September 2026
• Publisher: Chronicle Books
• Length: 96 Pages
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 7.5" x 9.5"
• Age Range: 5 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Kindergarten to Grade 3