For Little Historians & Young Explorers

Believed to have originated in twelfth-century France, the king cake tradition is an homage to the wise men (three kings). In New Orleans, as in Europe, a charm or plastic baby is hidden inside the cake and whoever finds the treasure is crowned king or queen for the day. The unofficial regent is also expected to host the next king cake party--or at least provide the cake! So, of course, everyone asks "Who got the baby in the king cake?" Downing's hand-cut colorful collage illustrations accompany her original song in this joyous story designed to entertain and educate kids of all ages. The full song, and many others celebrating her Louisiana home, can be found on her album Swamp Romp: A Louisiana Dance Party for Children.

Artful images grace the pages of this alphabet book; a visual feast of Louisiana's wildlife accompanied by informative facts and lyrical descriptions. Author and bard Rickey E. Pittman takes us on an adventure through the wilds of the state, embracing each animal's nature and providing short snippets of information perfect for the littlest of listeners and the youngest readers. Graceful images from artist Kay Meadows enhance Pittman's prose providing a gorgeous snapshot of these creatures from alligators, crawfish, and fox to opossums, pelican, vultures, and yellow jackets. Z brings us right into a list of Louisiana's edutaining zoos. Pittman offers a bit of lagniappe wrapped in Meadows clever illustrations in lists of the Louisiana state animals, fun Cajun French words for familiar wildlife, a list of troublesome species, and a list of critters we need to protect.