Franceska and the Venice Lagoon A Story about Discovery

In "Franceska and the Venice Lagoon", a young American girl's life takes an unexpected turn when she uncovers illegal fishing in Venice's iconic Rialto Fish Market. Embroiled in the conflict between fishers and environmentalists, Franceska must navigate a city steeped in history while grappling with themes of sustainability, sea-level rise, and public health. This two-part story weaves an engaging drama with hands-on STEM activities, offering readers the chance to explore experiments and delve into scientific concepts that complement the narrative.
As Franceska moves from her sheltered American life to the complex realities of Venice, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and social responsibility. Can she uncover the truth and avert disaster for the lagoon before it's too late? With its unique blend of storytelling and interactive learning, Franceska's adventure invites readers to reflect on their role in shaping a sustainable future

Lovelle Ruggiero is a retired educator from the City School District of New Rochelle, NY. During her tenure of more than four decades in both elementary and middle schools, certain themes have emerged that represent her teaching environment: creating a culturally sensitive teaching and learning environment, broadening the participation of women and girls into the engineering technologies, fisheries, and recirculating aquaculture. And of course, active learning.
Lovelle has a PhD from Capella University. Her dissertation explored the gender balance that was occurring in one of the 12 engineering schools at Cornell University. Franceska is her first novella.