Louisiana Childhood

Culinary + Arts: The Pot and the Palette Cookbook II
“The Pot and the Palette Cookbook II” celebrates not only Louisiana’s unique cuisine, but also the colorful contributions of young artists from across the state. Presented by the non-profit George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts, “The Pot and the Palette Cookbook II” features 100 recipes from noted Louisiana chefs along with artwork and design from talented high school students, who, in addition to appearing in the book, were awarded college scholarships to continue their pursuit of artistic endeavors. Gift yourself or your favorite foodie friend or family member while supporting arts education across Louisiana. Win-win! Hardcover, 192 pages, $29.95.

Louisiana Scrapbook: Memories of a Louisiana Girlhood
“Memories of a Louisiana Girlhood” is a remembrance of times gone by in the words of writer Elizabeth Nell Dubus. Published posthumously, Dubus’ last written work recounts what was, to her, an idyllic time, growing up in 1930s and ‘40s Lafayette and along the bayous of south Louisiana. A cast of characters from her own family, her Catholic school years, and plenty of friends and cousins populate her world of parties, ice cream socials, family gatherings, and more. Dubus includes a rich tapestry of culture, food, recipes and community that influenced her own life as a novelist, playwright, and journalist. She brings to life a time that may be gone now but is passed on in full color through her words. Paperback, 232 pages, $19.95.

Comfort Food: Josette & Friends Cook a Gumbo
It’s gumbo season! In “Josette & Friends Cook a Gumbo,” young readers will learn about the iconic Louisiana stew, as well as the cultures that make it all come together in this cozy tale. As each friend adds their own ingredients, we learn about the people of Louisiana, including Cajuns, Creoles, American Indians, French, Africans, Germans, and Spanish Isleños. Written by Elista Istre, with illustrations by Joy Dabby, Josette and her friends learn along the way that gumbo is much more than just a tasty treat; it’s about community and friendship that make life in Louisiana so delicious. Hardcover, 40 pages, $20.00

Literary News | The Louisiana endowment for the humanities and Gov. John Bel Edwards announced the state’s newest Poet Laureate, Alison Pelegrin.

Pelegrin lives in Covington, is writer-in-residence at Southeastern Louisiana University, and is the author of several collections of poetry.

In his announcement, Gov. Edwards noted, “The Poet Laureate acts as Louisiana’s literary ambassador, and Alison’s long record of teaching, sharing and producing poetry that engages readers makes her a perfect fit as the preeminent poet of our state. Her work is both beautifully crafted and appeals to a broad range of readers, and it will undoubtedly help elevate poetry in the public consciousness.”

Pelegrin will serve as poet laureate for a term of two years. Her publications include “Our Lady of Bewilderment,”  “Waterlines,” and “Hurricane Party.”