Our Story

THE CHALLENGE

Children face all sorts of dynamics in their young lives. There are so many distractions and everything is so fast. How do we help children grow in a way that fosters slowing down, appreciation, connection, empathy, and a love for nature and this world?

Enter Forest Crossing Friends — a children’s book series about the adventures of forest critters making their way in the world. Our books and products act as a creative, fun, and approachable way to help teachers, parents, and mentors start conversations about emotions, nature, and life.

VISION

To live in a more loving and connected world.

MISSION

To help 1 million kids better connect with their emotions and nature through reading and adventure.

Books and products are added often, so follow along and join the e-mail list if you’re interested in launches, readings, and events. Thank you for your interest and support!

@forestcrossingfriends
hello@forestcrossingfriends.com

About the Author & Illustrator

Casey Kelly Pérez is a brand and UI designer with 15+ years of experience with clients from all over North America, focusing primarily on branding, visual identity, packaging, and UI design.

Caseyloves the woods, skiing, mountain biking, golfing, running, and spending time with her husband and children.

An anecdote: How Forest Crossing Friends Came to Life:

After a move in 2021, Casey found herself rummaging through a memory box, where she uncovered several old, handmade books that shared her desire to be an author and an illustrator when she grew up. 

So why not go for it? Enter Forest Crossing Friends, a passion project where she continues to write, illustrate, self-publish, and create products for the brand. Casey enjoys school visits and sharing her brand and products with others in hope that the brand will inspire passion for nature, empathy, and being your truest self.

portrait of author and illustrator Casey Kelly Perez; she is wearing a gray sweatshirt and black beanie cap and is standing in front of a blue alpine lake