Shopping in Naperville? Keep an eye out for Waldo

Waldo is once again on the loose.

The familiar red-and-white striped character, who is always a bit hard to find, is hidden in nearly 60 stores and businesses this month in Naperville. It’s all part of “Where’s Waldo? on Main Street, USA,” a national campaign of Candlewick Press and the American Booksellers Association.

“What could be more fun than finding Waldo, but finding Waldo at local, independent businesses in your communities,” asks Becky Anderson of Naperville’s Anderson’s Bookshop and the former American Booksellers Association president. “Find Waldo Local celebrates the uniqueness, fun and strength of community.”

Waldo turned 25 last year when the program was launched. Now he’s back and the famous fellow in the striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting different businesses all through July.

Those who spot him can win prizes like buttons, books and more. From Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W. Jefferson Ave., to Adagio Teas, 27 W. Jefferson Ave.; from Cookie Dough Creations, 22 W. Chicago Ave., to the offices of Illinois Insurance Association, 2948 Artesian Road; and at many more stops, Waldo figures are showing up in public areas of local establishments.

Anyone who wishes to participate can pick up a “Find Waldo in Naperville” search list with the names of all the businesses and collect an “I Found Waldo at ___________” card for each Waldo they spot. Collecting cards in 16 or more businesses and turning them in at Anderson’s will win prizes and an entry for other, larger prizes in a drawing on Wednesday, July 31.

The grand prize is a complete six-volume set of Waldo books, a Waldo poster book and a Waldo postcard book.

Waldo is the creation of Martin Handford, whose drawings of crowd scenes swept the world in 1987. Since then, the “Where’s Waldo” books have held a cherished spot on bookstore shelves the world over. There are now more than 55 million Waldo books in print worldwide and they’ve been translated into 18 languages. An entire generation has grown up searching for Waldo and his cast of wandering companions.

In celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, decided to team up with the American Booksellers Association and 250 independent bookstores all across the country, including Anderson’s, to encourage people to visit local businesses. There is no charge to participate, and the game lasts for the entire month.

For details, call Anderson’s at (630) 355-2665 or visit IndieBoundNaperville.org.