I love Paris. I am always looking for books About Paris. So when we got a review copy of The Adventures of Bella & Harry: Let's Visit Paris!, I was excited. This picture book was written by Lisa Manzione, who is a financial professional, children’s book author, geographic literacy advocate and mother of two children, ages 21 and 23. She also has seven dogs (three labs and four Cavalier King Charles spaniels) and two feral cats. The book is beautifully illustrated by Kristine Lucco.

This book is adorable. Bella and Harry are two Chihuahuas from a book series, who head to Paris. They ride in an airplane, look at la Tour d'Eiffel, eat at a bistro, and visit the Louvre. Harry gets lost in the Louvre, then they head to the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees, and rest in their hotel. Lucco's illustrations bring Paris alive to the reader - from the Mona Lisa to the crowds on a street; from the food at a bistro to the Eiffel Tower. Bella and Harry are very cute dogs. There are even a few phrases to get you started on learning French!

I think it is important to learn about the world - the geography, culture, people, food, and more. This is a great way to introduce Paris to young kids. It's fun and very easy to read and learn. I love it.

Guess what? We interviewed author Lisa Manzione about the book!

WE: Please tell us about your book, THE ADVENTURES OF BELLA AND HARRY: LET'S VISIT PARIS! 

LM: The Adventures of Bella and Harry is a picture book series that chronicles the escapades of a pup named Bella, and her little brother Harry and their family, who travel the world exploring the sights and sounds of new, exciting cities.  Traveling the world with these two cute and cuddly Chihuahuas will allow the young reader to gain an appreciation of the world and its' cultural diversity.

WE: Why did you write this book? 

LM: I wrote the book to excite young readers about travel and exploration.   I believe having a general idea about other cultures and customs helps one understand the world around them.  

WE: Will you write more books in this series? Where will Bella and Harry go next?

LM: Yes.  We expect to have 3 books published by September, 2011...Paris, Venice, and London.  Hopefully, the series will be successful and additional cities will be added at a later date!  "Venice" will be available for purchase by the end of May, 2011.

WE: What do dogs eat in France?

LM: Just like here in the US...dogs eat what their owners feed them.   There is no "special" dog food in France.

WE: Can dogs really go into museums in France? 

LM: Sorry to say, Bella would not be able to visit the museum. However, I would assume Service Animals are allowed.

WE: Is there a REAL Bella and Harry? 

LM: Yes, there is a REAL Bella.  She is 7 years old and cute as a button!  Her picture is on the back of the book.  Harry is a fictional character.

WE: Why did you include a baguette in your book? 

LM: I enjoyed my first baguette at the French (Tennis) Open in Paris.  It was so tasty; I wanted to include it in the book.  There is nothing better than fresh french bread!  Not to mention, if Bella had been there....she would have loved it! 

WE: Is there anything else you'd like to share with us? 

LM: Yes. We are in process of participating in a National Print Campaign.  We are also doing several radio interviews regarding the importance of educating youngsters regarding travel, customs and cultures throughout the world.

I would also like everyone to know that 5% of the net proceeds from all sales pertaining to the Bella and Harry series will be contributed to the ASCPA.

I hope I have answered all of your questions!

Happy Travels!

Lisa Manzione

WE: Thank you, Lisa! I love this book!

Want to learn more? Head to BellaAndHarry.com!

L Forteau is the Special Children's Reporter for Wandering Educators

Note: We received a review copy of The Adventures of Bella & Harry: Let's Visit Paris! from the author. Thank you!