Finding the Way to Faraway Valley - by Cecilia Heikkila (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Grandpa and Little Bear share a dream to visit Faraway Valley -- a special, hard-to-find place full of wild and wonderful creatures, a place where the air smells of pine needles, a place they've only seen on a postcard. The determined pair study maps, read books and practice camping to prepare for their adventure, then set sail for the long journey. But when they arrive in the north, they find a bustling port full of shops, where everyone seems to have forgotten about Faraway Valley. Does the beautiful place of their dreams still exist, and can they find it? A magical, heart-warming tale of wonder and adventure, this moving picture book gently explores themes of celebrating nature and respecting wild landscapes. Cecilia Heikkilae's stunning artwork is full of texture, colour and character"--

Book Synopsis

Discover and protect wild places with a little polar bear and his grandpa in this heart-warming and fun adventure.

Faraway Valley is a special, hard-to-find place full of wild and wonderful creatures. A place where the air smells of pine needles. A place Grandpa and the little bear have only seen on a postcard. What will the determined pair find at the end of their journey? Does Faraway Valley even exist anymore?

Moving, funny and inspiring, Finding the Way to Faraway Valley is story for curious and environmentally conscious children and their grown-ups. Cecilia Heikkila's colorful, characterful illustrations are full of delightful details to spot together.

Review Quotes

'A restrained, lyrical tone makes Faraway Valley magical for readers... A beautifully illustrated picture book with an environmental theme.' --Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

'This moving tale weaves a gentle moral of conservation through the story of a little bear's adventure with his grandfather.' --Foreword Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

'This is a gentle clarion call to protect Earth's wild spaces... Its message should be heard globally, in every language. Delicately lovely watercolor, gouache, pastel, and digital illustrations capture our planet's fragile beauty. Faraway Valley is closer to home than we may realize, and we must all protect it.' --Kirkus Reviews

'A timely tale about the need to protect and preserve wild spaces.' --School Library Journal

'A tale about finding wild spots, and their protection. If nothing else, you need to read this book so that you can fully appreciate Otterline Otter�s Wilderness Store (I want to go to there). Definitely give this one a taste.' --Betsy Bird, School Library Journal

'Nature and wilderness appreciation is embedded in this gentle tale of appreciation and wonder.' --Midwest Book Review

'A book about wonder, persistence, and preservation... Grandpa and little bear's innocent determination and deep longing to care for nature and all it entails are at the core of the story and their example is a positive one for children... The detailed illustrations will captivate young minds. Little ones are sure to discover novel things within the brightly hued pages with each new and exciting read.' --Los Angeles Book Review

'A lovely paean to keeping our outdoor spaces wild. The longer text is perfect for a cozy family read, and the gorgeous artwork excels at portraying the animals and beautiful forests and mountains of this special place.' --Youth Services Book Reviews

'The artwork pays tribute to the wonders of nature and those special places that haven't get been spoiled by humans, and is absolutely stunning... This is a firm, yet still gentle introduction into conservation. A must read for all nature-lovers.' --YA Books Central

'Encourages readers to consider their role in protecting the environment and the interconnectedness of all living things.'--Global Literature in Libraries Initiative

About the Author

Cecilia Heikkila is a graphic designer, author and illustrator from Dalarna, Sweden. She was awarded The Selma Lagerlof Society's prize for children and YA literature in 2024. Cecilia is the creator of several acclaimed picture books, including Badger's Journey and A Christmas Sweater for Nina.