Mariah Leal’s “Axxel the Ambassador: Piper Gets a Baby Brother” to Be Featured at Book Festival at Printers Row, Chicago

ReadersMagnet will showcase Mariah Leal’s Axxel the Ambassador: Piper Gets a Baby Brother, a delightful educational story, at a renowned book festival at Printers Row on September 12-13, 2026. The two-day free, outdoor event will take place along South Dearborn Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Polk Street in Chicago.

The children’s book helps children understand what it takes to welcome a second dog into the family. Through the voices of Axxel and Piper, readers explore friendship, patience, and responsible pet ownership in a fun and engaging way.

Axxel the Ambassador offers practical lessons on introducing a puppy or an adult rescue dog into the home. It also explains why training, preparation, and understanding each dog’s personality are essential for a happy household.

Children and parents will also learn about adopting shelter dogs and asking important questions before bringing a new pet home. The story gently introduces the Rainbow Bridge, helping families discuss love and loss with kindness and compassion.

Mariah Leal brings decades of hands-on experience to every page. She worked as a Veterinary Technician and owned a grooming and dog training business before becoming a full-time author and speaker.

Although now disabled, Leal continues her lifelong mission of educating children and families about dog safety. Her books are inspired by her commitment to reducing dog bites and promoting positive relationships between children and dogs.

Her educational stories have reached readers of all ages by combining expert knowledge with memorable characters and relatable adventures. They entertain while encouraging responsible pet care and empathy.


The upcoming book festival at Printers Row in Chicago provides the perfect setting for readers to discover this meaningful title. Mariah Leal’s inspiring work reminds families that patience, preparation, and understanding create stronger bonds between children and their canine companions, making every new addition to the family a positive experience.

Get a copy of Axxel the Ambassador: Piper Gets a Baby Brother available here. Connect with Mariah Leal on her website, Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, and LinkedIn.

Explore Mariah’s heartwarming guide to responsible pet ownership and celebrate the special bond between children and dogs. Visit the ReadersMagnet exhibit at the festival.

Author’s Biography:

Mariah Leal is an educational author and speaker dedicated to helping children and families prevent dog bites through engaging stories told from the perspective of her beloved dogs. Mariah used to be a Veterinary Technician and the owner of a grooming and training company. She has always worked with animals and has been learning more about animals throughout her life by taking various courses and seminars. Although she became disabled, Mariah stayed true to her passion and created books and presentations to educate children on how to get along safely with a dog.

Book Details
Book Title: Axxel the Ambassador: Piper Gets a Baby Brother
Author: Mariah Leal
Publisher: Self-Published
Published date: Copyright 2025 Genre: Memoir – Children’s book

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