Where's Wally?, also known as Where's Waldo? in North America, is a British series of children's puzzle books created by English illustrator Martin Handford. The books consist of a series of detailed, double-page spread illustrations depicting large groups of people doing a variety of things at a given location. Readers are challenged to find Wally (or Waldo), a distinctive character easily identified by his red-and-white striped shirt, bobble hat, and glasses, who is hidden within each illustration.
The books are noted for their highly detailed illustrations and the challenging nature of the search. In addition to Wally, readers are often tasked with finding other characters and items, such as Wally's dog Woof (who only appears as a tail in the early books), his girlfriend Wenda, his rival Odlaw, and the wizard Whitebeard, along with specific objects listed at the beginning of each search.
The first Where's Wally? book was published in 1987 and quickly became a global phenomenon. The series has since spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations, including a television series, comic strip, and video games. The books are popular for their engaging and visually stimulating nature, appealing to both children and adults alike, and promoting observational skills. Handford's illustrations are characterized by their density, detail, and humorous scenarios, which contribute significantly to the books' enduring appeal.