Wally & Freya

A heartwarming picture book that teaches empathy and inclusion.

Everyone knows Wally is a bully. He steals lunch every day from Bella Jo the bear, calls Oliver the owl mean names, and never shares the crayons. So when the other animals decide to write a story together and the notebook disappears, there is little doubt that Wally has taken it.

But what the animals don't know is why Wally acts the way he does. As they unravel the mystery of the missing notebook, they also begin to understand Wally, which leads to a surprising and joyous discovery. 

This sweet story teaches children empathy and the amazing power of kindness and inclusion. The first in a new series on restorative justice practices for kids, this book is sure to delight children and grownups alike.

 

Lindsey Pointer is the associate director of the National Center on Restorative Justice and an assistant professor at Vermont Law School. She has a PhD in restorative justice from Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand and is a former Fulbright Fellow. Lindsey has worked as a restorative justice facilitator, community program manager, educator, and researcher. She currently lives in Burlington, Vermont.

Stella Mongodi is an Italian illustrator living in Edinburgh. She’s studied art and illustration for many years with renowned professionals such as Anna Castagnoli, Carll Cneut, and Stefano Moroni. She started with oil colors and acrylics, but her illustrations are now entirely digital, characterized by a dreamy, feathery and playful style.
 

"This is a lovely story about restorative justice in action . . . a poignant reminder—not just for kids—that those who seem to be our enemies are themselves often hurting and in need.” —Howard Zehr, author of The Little Book of Restorative Justice

"Empathy, inclusion, belonging, and repairing of hurts and harms are the not-so-secret keys to all effective restorative justice and peacemaking practice. This delightful and beautifully illustrated little story for young children aims to affirm and foster the development of these crucial virtues. What could be more worthwhile than that?" —Chris Marshall, PhD, emeritus professor of restorative justice, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.

"This delightfully illustrated book has such a simple message about restorative problem-solving - everyone has a story that deserves to be heard. Kindness, empathy, and compassion will always break through the harms caused by those who are hurting. It’s a perfect lesson for our young ones!" —Marg Thorsborne, restorative practices author, trainer, facilitator, Australia
 

"Dr. Lindsey Pointer shows us how creating space for young people, especially those at risk of being ostracized by the majority, to be vulnerable and share their fears can create deeper understanding. The dance that Wally and Freya go through, as beautifully illustrated, is a perfect portrayal of restorative justice in practice." —Christina Parker, Associate Professor, University of Waterloo