Paolo, Emperor of Rome — Mac Barnett

A daring dog takes a whirlwind tour of Italy's capital city in search of freedom in Paolo, Emperor of Rome, a picture book from beloved storyteller Mac Barnett and masterful illustrator Claire Keane.
 
Paolo the dachshund is trapped. Though he lives in Rome, a city filled with history and adventure, he is confined to a hair salon. Paolo dreams of the sweet life -- la dolce vita -- in the Eternal City. And then, one day, he escapes!
 
Paolo throws himself into the city, finding adventure at every turn. Join our hero as he discovers the wonders of Rome: the ruins, the food, the art, the opera, and -- of course -- the cats.
 
Readers will cheer the daring of this bighearted dog, whose story shows that even the smallest among us can achieve great things.
 
“Both Keane's art and Barnett's plucky hero give the big city of Rome an exciting and inviting feel, making it a delightful adventure for readers and travelers of all ages.” -- Shelf Awareness (Starred Review)