Where Did Dory Fantasmagory First Appear In Media?

Short and sweet take: Dory Fantasmagory first appeared in the storybook 'Dory Fantasmagory' written by Abby Hanlon, where she’s presented as an exuberant, highly imaginative young girl. That first appearance is in book form — not a show or comic — and it establishes the tone of playful exaggeration and emotional honesty that defines the series. The format (picture-chapter style) is key: it invites early readers to tackle a slightly longer narrative while enjoying accessible, funny episodes. I personally like how that original book balances mischief and heart; it’s the kind of debut that makes you root for a character even when she’s being theatrical, and it left me wanting more of her chaotic charm.

Totally enchanted by how chaotic and honest Dory is, I dug into where she originated: Dory Fantasmagory first appeared in the picture book 'Dory Fantasmagory' by Abby Hanlon (2010). That book is the intro to Dory’s world — full of big feelings, ridiculous monsters under beds, and that wonderful child logic where the line between real and pretend is gloriously blurry. Hanlon’s voice captures a kid’s perspective without sugarcoating, and the art backs up every dramatic proclamation Dory makes.

Beyond the original release, Dory evolved into a small collection of books that kept the same tone — fast-paced, funny, and reassuring in a way that helps young readers handle anxiety and anger by seeing them played out on the page. I’ve seen these books recommended for read-aloud sessions and early readers who appreciate short chapters and lots of personality. If you’re thinking of gifting something to a kid who loves loud, goofy heroes, start with the first book: that’s literally where Dory showed up and set the template for everything that followed. I love how one compact story can feel like the launchpad for a whole personality, and Dory’s debut absolutely does that.

I got hooked on this character because her imagination is just wild and unapologetic. Dory Fantasmagory first showed up in print — she’s the title character of the picture-chapter book 'Dory Fantasmagory' by Abby Hanlon. That original book introduced Dory’s big, dramatic inner life: a kid who transforms ordinary household moments into epic adventures filled with monsters, princesses, and exaggerated emotions. The publisher behind that launch was Candlewick Press, and the book is aimed at early readers who love silly, voice-driven narration.

What I love about that first appearance is how the format itself supports Dory — it’s short-chapter pacing with chunky illustrations and a voice that reads like a kid onstage. Abby Hanlon’s writing captured the frustration and wonder of early childhood in a way that felt instantly familiar to parents and teachers I know, and it helped spark a small series of follow-ups. In other words, Dory didn’t debut on TV or in a comic strip; she arrived where a lot of memorable children’s characters begin: a single, strong picture-chapter book that allowed readers to lean into her perspective. I still grin thinking about how the original book makes the ordinary feel enormous, and that first appearance remains my favorite way to meet her.

Bright and chatty here: Dory’s origin is neat and straightforward — she first appears in the book called 'Dory Fantasmagory' by Abby Hanlon. I discovered her when I was hunting for read-alouds and spotted that hilarious, over-the-top cover. The book itself is a perfect introduction: a mix of short, punchy chapters and lively illustrations that keep kids turning pages. That debut is what set the tone — Dory’s voice is big, comedic, and completely believable as a kid who both loves drama and secretly worries about things.

Since that first book, there have been more installments that build on Dory’s world, but nothing quite replaces that initial entry because it’s where you learn her rhythms and catchphrases. If you’re looking for a read for a 5–8-year-old who likes humor and slightly chaotic protagonists, that original book is where to start. I’ve read it aloud enough times to predict the giggles, and I still enjoy her antics every single read-through.

For me, the charm of Dory comes down to that initial spark in the book 'Dory Fantasmagory' — that’s where she first appeared on the scene, written and drawn by Abby Hanlon in 2010. The original picture book gives you Dory in full force: unpredictable, dramatic, and brave in her own messy way. It’s short but it says a lot about how children process fear and imagination; Dory turns problems into adventures and that’s what makes the character stick.

I’ve watched kids howl with laughter at her proclamations and then quietly mimic her braver moments, which feels true to the book’s balance of humor and heart. The debut is simple but perfectly pitched, and it’s the reason Dory went on to appear in more titles — she was planted firmly in readers’ minds right from that first book. I always walk away from it smiling at how loud and unapologetic a child’s inner life can be.

I fell hard for the chaotic joy of 'Dory Fantasmagory' the moment I spotted it on a library shelf, and that’s where Dory first showed up in media: the picture book 'Dory Fantasmagory' written and illustrated by Abby Hanlon, published in 2010. The book introduces Dory as this wildly imaginative little girl who turns everyday things into grand adventures — monsters, princesses, and whole kingdoms made of living-room furniture. The illustrations are simple but expressive, matching the tone of a kid’s internal universe and letting the text do the silly, high-energy work.

After that debut, the character grew into a small series of children's books, with Abby Hanlon expanding on Dory’s antics in subsequent titles. Teachers and parents love them for their relatability: tantrums, bravery, big feelings, and a sense of humor that respects a child’s point of view. If you’ve read other modern, kid-centered picture books like those by Mo Willems or Kate DiCamillo’s younger stuff, you’ll see a similar vibe — short, punchy scenes that read well aloud and invite repeat readings.

I still find it refreshing how a single picture book can birth a character who feels so immediate and alive; Dory’s the kind of protagonist who sticks in your head because she’s loud, honest, and oddly triumphant. It’s a neat reminder that picture books are where a lot of beloved characters first get their start, and Dory’s debut in 'Dory Fantasmagory' is a perfect example of that energy.