Pelican Bestsellers

Some may think gumbo is simply a delicious stew, but down in Cajun country we know a gumbo is so much more. The magic of history, family tradition, local customs, and bayou seasoning meld to created a swirling wonder of flavor that enchants the senses and reminds us of home. It is just such an aroma that entices George as he wanders through the bayou on a lazy afternoon.

George follows his nose and meets the mystical Nanny, who seems right at home in the swamp under the ancient oak trees. There Nanny and George prepare a gumbo as rich in music, stories, laughter, and Cajun secrets - for everything finds its way into a gumbo. As they dice, chop, and stir, she will teach him how to put together the most important of Cajun dishes and impart a few lessons about life along the way. A simple gumbo recipe completes George's bayou adventure and allows young readers (and parents) to sample a delectable bite of Cajun heritage. Written and Illustrated by Alexis Braud.

This baby mosquito is in for the meal of his life!

Swept away by a hurricane shortly after his birth, Boudreaux the mosquito has one biting question that needs to be answered: what are mosquitos supposed to eat? Across the swamps of Louisiana he goes, determined to find a breakfast fit for a pest. Unfortunately for Boudreaux, not a single animal is able to help: The alligator tells him to ask the wolf, who tells him to ask the bear, who tells him to ask the wild hog. Before he knows it, Boudreaux has exhausted his wings buzzing from one ear to the next, and he's still no closer to finding his first meal! He finally receives a very intriguing answer . . . but what will become of Boudreaux when he tests this theory?

Throw me out there, mister!

When Carnival rolls around in New Orleans, everyone gets into the celebration—including the beads! On Fat Tuesday, a plain string of little purple beads hangs from a hook on a parade float. His fervent wish is to be caught by someone special. The bigger and fancier beads tell him that no one will ever catch him. But a little hope and determination may go a long way in the magical season of Mardi Gras! When the bead spots a little princess in the crowd, he knows she is the person for him! Will she try to catch him? The heartwarming tale offers opportunities for a discussion of bullying, self-worth, and inclusion with young readers. The delightful story and illustrations from this daughter/father team will charm the entire family and become a parade route favorite!

Raised in New Orleans, Julie P. Rowley holds a master’s of education in early childhood curriculum and instruction from the University of New Orleans. Her stories were inspired by her daughter’s imagination.

A graduate of Loyola University New Orleans, John R. Paquette is a retired editor. He is also a professional vocalist and a talented portrait artist and illustrator. He enjoyed collaborating with his daughter.

Mix up a cocktail New Orleans-style. From highfalutin to down home, from Sazeracs to mint juleps, this gorgeous cocktail cookbook offers more than sixty recipes from famous New Orleans establishments and mixologists, along with photographs, history, and narratives. These Crescent City cocktails are easy on the eyes and the taste buds and can be paired with recipes from the Classics Series.

INTERNATIONAL LATINO BOOK AWARD SECOND PLACE FOR BOOK WRITTEN BY A YOUTH

PARENTS' CHOICE APPROVED AWARD

For kids who want to cook—Louisiana style! Kid Chef Eliana keeps the good times rolling in this kid-friendly cookbook of Louisiana cuisine. With nearly thirty exciting recipes from meat pies to boudin balls to Mardi Gras king cake, Eliana undertakes a culinary journey exploring unique gastronomic traditions from all regions of the state. With Eliana's help, your delicious dishes are sure to satisfy the taste buds of all ages!

A melting pot of New Orleans' diverse flavors, cultures, and history.

WINNER OF THE SCBWI CRYSTAL KITE AWARD

AN IN THE MARGINS LIST NOMINEE

The storm pulled them apart. Can they stay strong while far away?

In this dramatic coming-of-age story, Hollis Williams matures in the traumatic events of Hurricane Katrina. Living with his siblings and his grandmother, Hollis's greatest wish has always been to reconnect with his absent father. Through the turmoil of the storm and the ensuing tests of his determination, Hollis keeps this dream alive. Their home destroyed, Hollis and his younger siblings are taken to a shelter in West Virginia, where he discovers what family means and finds his own inner strength.

On Monday, there are red beans to eat, and on Tuesday, po'boys and on it goes throughout the week, each day bringing a unique and tasty Louisiana dish to the table. Based on a song by New Orleans singer/songwriter Johnette Downing, Today Is Monday in Louisiana offers the best of Cajun, Creole, African, and French foods.

A collection of appetizers from the world's favorite city for food. This gift cookbook is a compilation of favorite hors d'oeuvres from renowned New Orleans restaurants and chefs. Beautiful photographs accompanied by musings run concurrent with recipes from some of New Orleans' finest restaurants and most-skilled chefs. Classic recipes such as Antoine's Crabmeat Imperial, Cochon's Watermelon Rind Pickles, and Restaurant Cuv'e's Shrimp Remoulade Napoleon accompany some new favorites such as Dickie Brennan's Bourbon House Oyster Shooters and Restaurant August's Honey Island Chanterelle Tart.