Looking for the perfect gift to celebrate the holiday season? Consider giving a book by a local Louisiana author that captures the essence of the state’s vibrant culture and unique traditions. From whimsical tales set in the bayous to heartwarming stories that reflect the magic of New Orleans, these must-have titles offer something for readers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a fun children’s book, a keepsake memory book, or a festive holiday read, these Louisiana-inspired stories are sure to delight and make a thoughtful addition to any gift list this Christmas.
Arby’s Magic Streetcar Ride: Introducing The Encouragers!
By Laura Hernandez, Ph.D.
Join Arby, a golden retriever, on a magical New Orleans adventure! Feeling down, Arby hops on a streetcar with the Encouragers–a superhero team with uplifting powers. Together, they explore the vibrant city, teaching Arby the magic of friendship and encouragement. Reinvigorated, Arby resumes his heartwarming mission as a therapy dog, spreading joy wherever he goes.
Purchase on Amazon for $14.99.
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Carnival Time in My Mind
By Abby Greenbaum Roniger
Illustrated by Eleanore Krentel Pitard
This vibrant picture book celebrates Mardi Gras through the eyes of a young storyteller, capturing the joy and traditions of Carnival season in New Orleans. From ladders on the neutral ground to king cake, flambeaux, marching bands, and parade-day fried chicken, the story highlights the family-friendly fun and cultural richness of Mardi Gras. With colorful illustrations and lively verse, it invites readers to relive cherished memories or discover the magic of this unique celebration.
Purchase at Arcadia Publishing for $19.99.
Clyde the Giant Crawfish
By Alexandra Navarre Davis
Illustrated by Shannon Kelley Atwater
In the bayou, where critters roam, lived Clyde, a lovable little crawfish. The bigger crawfish said he was too small to play, but Clyde had a clever plan involving his giant cousin in Maine! Young readers will enjoy the fun twist while discovering the value of inclusion.
Purchase at Arcadia Publishing, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble for $19.99.
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Gary and His Little Friend Jerry
By Adam Dennis
In the swamp, Gary the gator finds an unlikely friend in Jerry, a cell phone that fell off a boat. Jerry introduces Gary to the wonders of technology, but Gary begins to miss the slower pace of life with his family and friends. This vibrant picture book invites young readers to see if Gary and Jerry can find a balance between modern tech and the simple joys of the bayou.
Purchase at Arcadia Publishing, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble for $19.99.
Goodnight Pothole
By Shannon Kelley Atwater
Brace yourself for a bumpy ride! In this humorous twist on the classic Goodnight Moon, sleepy readers will drift off to dreams of orange cones, chicken bones, blown-out tires, downed wires, and more amusing rhymes about the reality of eroding roads. It’s a funny, yet true, look at the state of our streets!
Purchase at shannonkelleyatwater.com for $19.99.
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Roux’s Special Gift
By J. Steven Spires and Allison P. Murphy
Illustrated by Chloe Salvatore
In a cypress trunk in the Louisiana swamp, Roux the raccoon spends another lonely Christmas, hoping for a change. He builds a Cajun-style bonfire to guide Papa Noel on Christmas Eve, never expecting Santa to visit. To Roux’s surprise, Santa brings gifts but soon realizes what Roux truly needs is friendship. This heartwarming tale about hope, the magic of Christmas, and the power of friendship, filled with Cajun traditions, will delight young readers. A recipe for Roux’s Bayou Stew adds a special touch to the story.
Purchase at Arcadia Publishing for $19.99.
Sleepless in Louisiana
By Shelby Griffin Lopinto
At Sassy’s house, it’s nap time–but she’s wide awake! In this children’s book, young readers will journey with Sassy across Louisiana, experiencing the music of New Orleans, strawberry picking in Ponchatoula, and swamp tours. But wait… was it all just a dream?
Purchase at Arcadia Publishing, Amazon, or Target for $19.99.
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The Bayou Fairies
By Cher Nicole Levis
Illustrated by Paula Merritt Windham
Gather around the story ring and discover how these magical creatures befriended the animals of the Southern swamp through acts of kindness. As you follow the fairies and their Forever Friends on their adventures, you’ll learn about the wildlife, plants, and flowers of the South. This enchanting children’s book is perfect for boys, girls, and fairy enthusiasts of all ages.
Purchase on thebayoufairies.com for $18.95.
The Runaway Beignet
By Connie Morgan
Illustrated by Herb Leonhard
In this whimsical folktale, a lonely baker’s wish comes true when he sprinkles magic sugar on a beignet, bringing it to life. The little beignet boy escapes but risks being eaten by hungry New Orleanians. He leads a wild chase through the French Quarter, visiting iconic landmarks along the way. With fun illustrations and a catchy refrain, this charming story will capture readers’ hearts.
Purchase at Arcadia Publishing for $19.99
Who Dat Baby? A Louisiana Baby’s Book of Firsts
By Allison Dugas Behan
Illustrated by Allison Dugas Behan
This charming baby memory book lets families capture all the milestones of a one-of-a-kind Louisiana childhood! With vibrantly illustrated pages, there’s room for photos and notes to document your baby’s first twelve months in the Pelican State, along with spaces for the first and second birthdays. Parents can record special moments like baby’s first king cake, football game, festival, and so much more!