The Maple Forest Lunchbox Tanuki
Forgotten Bentos and Found Courage

About this book:

In the dappled light of the Great Maple Forest, a shy young tanuki named Poko watches the world from the shadows—until a forgotten onigiri wrapped in indigo cloth pulls him into the daylight. What begins as a simple act of kindness becomes a series of secret deliveries, each bento a bridge between Poko's quiet hollow and the bustling Forest Schoolhouse. From the bear cub's tamagoyaki to the badger twins' shared lunch, every rescued meal carries a whisper of gratitude that chips away at Poko's isolation.

But the forest holds more than hungry students: a mischievous fox with a nose for trouble, an owl who sees everything, and a mysterious "Forest Express" rumored to carry more than letters. As autumn winds scatter maple leaves like confetti, Poko must choose between the safety of his ferns and the terrifying, wonderful possibility of belonging. With each chapter, the stakes rise—from a tilted thermos to a midnight rescue in pelting rain—until the day no bento is forgotten and Poko finally steps into the schoolyard himself.

*The Maple Forest Lunchbox Tanuki* is a heartwarming tale of courage found in small paws, where every rice ball wrapped in love becomes a lifeline. Perfect for readers who cherish *The Tale of Despereaux* or *The Secret Garden*, this enchanting story serves up friendship, found family, and the quiet magic of showing up—one bento at a time.