Kids' Book Features Obamas' New Dog

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The new presidential pooch just moved into the White House, and he's already got a book deal. Well, sort of.

Washington, D.C.'s newest four-legged resident and White House mascot, Bo, is featured in Bo, America's Commander in Leash , which is written and published by Naren Aryal and illustrated by Danny Moore. It's the first children's book starring the Obamas' new Portuguese Water Dog.

President Obama promised his daughters, Sasha and Malia, a dog during his acceptance speech on Election Night, and after months of waiting they got their wish when Bo arrived at the White House on Tuesday. The First Family showed him off to reporters and photographers on the White House lawn.

In the new book, kids get a unique tour of the White House through the eyes of the First Dog. Bo takes part in long-standing White House traditions like the Easter egg roll, fireworks on the Fourth of July, and a Camp David retreat.

The First Pup also learns about some new traditions started by his family, like playing on the new White House swing set with Sasha and Malia, and planting vegetables in the new garden with First Lady Michelle Obama. He even hits the court to play basketball with the President.

“The opportunity to work on a book about the White House’s mascot, is the ultimate for us," said Aryal. "Young readers will love the playful story line, the beautiful illustrations by celebrated artist Danny Moore, and they’ll learn interesting White House facts and traditions along the way.”

Aryal said the book has been in the works for several weeks, and when Bo's identity became known, they put the finishing touches on the story.

Herndon, Virginia publisher Mascot Books is behind the book. They're responsible for publishing more than 150 other children's books that feature mascots for well-known colleges, sports teams and elementary schools.

Bo, America's Commander in Leash will be released on April 23, and will be available for $14.95 in stores or online at www.mascotbooks.com.