Let's Visit Rome!
The Adventures of Bella & Harry
by Lisa Manzione
Illustrated by Kristine Lucco

Let's Visit Rome! The Adventures of Bella & Harry is part of a picture book series geared toward children around 5-9 years old. It's a sturdy hardcover book with big, colorful illustrations on its 35 pages.

The book, and series, features a Chihuahua named Bella and her little brother pup Harry. They travel to different cities in the world and learn about the culture and landmarks.

The author wrote, "The series was developed with the hope of inspiring young readers to embrace the world and encourage its exploration. Done through the comedic and informative adventures of Bella and Harry, while traveling through various countries, I hope to stimulate children's imaginations and foster a thirst for understanding the world in which they live."

In this adventure the explorers visit Rome and see the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Circus Maximus and more. They also learn words such as antipasto and gladiator. At the end there are 6 words/phrases in Italian to learn: Yes, No, Family, Good Morning, Good Evening and Good Night. A pronunciation guide might have helped here unless an adult is reading along with the child.

It's a fun book and the kids will pick up things without having to study. For example, the great drawing (by illustrator Kristine Lucco) of the map of Italy and description as a boot will undoubtedly stay with them.

In a world that has become less distant thanks to technology (air travel, TV, Internet, etc.) it's important to give young people a glimpse at some of the exciting cultures beyond their own back yard.