The former magazine editor turned author, James Vasey, has unveiled his latest work, The Dog in the Wrong Place, a charming children’s book set in the picturesque but largely unknown Principality of Seborga.
Known for his trilogy of novels based in the unique microstate of Seborga, a self-proclaimed principality in the Ligurian countryside, English author James Vasey has revealed a new project that will see him put his storytelling talents to use in the world of children’s literature.
The Dog in the Wrong Place, a story for young readers aged two to eight, is available in both English and Italian, and is a beautifully illustrated tale that carries an educational message.
Centred around the life of its protagonist, a mischievous Labrador named Millie—drawn from Vasey’s own dog, who has become a familiar presence in Seborga’s piazzas and cafés—the book emphasises the importance of listening to adults and following safety rules.
“Everyone in the village knows Millie because she always finds the most inconvenient places to nap, which inspired the title of the story,” recounts Vasey.
The story also features the real-life Princess Nina of Seborga, who appears in a caricature on the book’s cover and within its pages.
Princess Nina has praised the book and expressed gratitude for Vasey’s continued focus on the self-proclaimed Principality of Seborga as an enchanting location.
“I had the chance to read this children’s book, and I found it absolutely delightful,” she says. “This book not only educates but also carries a message of hope and solidarity.”
The book has a philanthropic angle as well: Vasey will be donating a portion of the proceeds from its sales to charity.
“Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the handover ceremony of a wonderful guide dog funded by the local Lions Club,” says Vasey. “That experience moved me deeply, and I decided to donate a portion of the book’s proceeds to training new guide dogs for the blind.”
Seborga is located in Liguria, Italy. It proclaimed itself an independent principality in May 1963. Despite the fact it is not internationally recognised, the microstate has its own flag, anthem, postage stamps, and currency, the luigino. It also has a constitutional monarchy and an honour guard called the Corps of the Guards.
Readers can find The Dog in the Wrong Place on Amazon and through the official e-shop of the Principality of Seborga.
Fans can also look forward to a sequel, where Millie takes centre stage again, thwarting a daring attempt to steal the Princess’s crown. The follow-up is slated for release in 2025.
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Photo credit: Kaidi-Katariin Knox