NEW YORK (AP) — After 40 years of publishing and millions of book sales worldwide, Isabel Allende is ready to become a children's author. Allende has a deal with Philomel Books, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers, for three picture books. Illustrated by Sandy Rodriguez and inspired by Allende's rescue dog, “Perla” is the story of a dog with a big heart, a loud bark and fierce loyalty to her human soulmate, Nico Rico. Perla is joyful, loyal, loves unconditionally and is always ready to protect her family,” Allende said in a statement Wednesday. Allende, 81, is known for such novels as “The House of the Spirits” and “Eva Luna.”Copyright 2023 The Associated Press.

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Persons: Isabel Allende, Allende, “ Perla, Sandy Rodriguez, “ Perla ”, Nico Rico, “, Perla, ” Allende, “ Eva Luna Organizations: Philomel, Penguin Young, Associated Press