Gloria Estefan's Children's Book Debuts at No 2 on The New York Times Bestseller List

NEW YORK (ESTEFAN ENT) - Five-time GRAMMY Award-winning singer/songwriter Gloria Estefan has now launched her career as a bestselling author. After just one week on sale, her children's book The Magically Mysterious Adventures of Noelle the Bulldog (Rayo/HarperCollins, October 11, 2005, $17.99, ages 4-8), will debut at No 2 on the October 30 New York Times Bestseller List. In the book - which is published in both Spanish and English editions - Estefan shares the real-life escapades of her beloved English bulldog Noelle. A CD is included in every copy, featuring Gloria's first song for children - the luminous 'Noelle's Song. (Been Wishin').'

Noelle, a young dog adopted into a good family but having trouble adjusting to a strange new place, leaps into the hearts of those young and old who have felt the worry of an outsider trying to fit in and the joy that comes from discovering your own inner beauty.

An ideal tool to introduce a discussion on self-confidence and making friends, The Magically Mysterious Adventures of Noelle the Bulldog helps children who may feel alienated and ostracized understand that no matter what shape, size, or interests they may have, fitting in is internal and being yourself is the ultimate way to make anyone think you're special. The book is the first in a planned series of three children's books Gloria Estefan intends to write and publish.

As an artist who herself has penned numerous chart topping hits and is a member of the prestigious Songwriters Hall of Fame, writing a story about her beloved Noelle in a children's book format was a natural transition.

"I don't think too much is known about the affinity that I feel for animals. I have a very real connection with them and although I've had many pets, especially dogs, I have found a new and very unique connection with my two year old English bulldog, Noelle,' says Gloria Estefan. 'I am thrilled that Noelle has brought readers as much joy and surprise as she has brought into the lives of everyone who has met her."