Name: Cajun Night Before Christmas 50th Anniversary Edition
Brand: James Rice
SKU: 9781455627141
Price: 24.95 USD
Availability: InStock

Cajun Night Before Christmas 50th Anniversary Edition

9781455627141

$24.95

"Forget Dancer, Prancer, Comet, and Vixen. . . . Good Clement, wherever he is, will not be gnashing his teeth.'?--New York Times Book Review

Take the classic story of jolly old St. Nicholas, place it in a Louisiana bayou setting, dress Santa Claus in muskrat "from his head to his foot,'? pile his skiff high with toys, and hitch it to eight friendly alligators. The result is this modern classic. Fifty years after its first appearance, Cajun Night Before Christmas® has sold more than one million copies and has served as the model for Pelican's ongoing, best-selling Night Before Christmas Series.

The Cajun Night Before Christmas® has been a part of Louisiana's holiday traditions since it was first published in 1973. A delight to both young and old with its rustic full-color illustrations and lively story, it has become a timeless addition to holiday celebrations far beyond south Louisiana, reaching all corners of the country with its charming presentation of Christmas on the bayou and the break-out star of Gaston® the Green-Nosed Alligator.

Conceived by J. B. Kling, Jr., Cajun Night Before Christmas® originally appeared as a Christmas message from Bergeron Plymouth Company of New Orleans. Under the pseudonymous byline "Trosclair,'? the story won a Clio Award in 1967 from the Academy of Television and Radio Advertising.

Brought to life by the talented James Rice, the humorous illustrations of a colorful bayou Christmas have been nationally recognized as a classic in its genre.

Featuring eight pages of curated content released from the Pelican archives, this special Fiftieth Anniversary Edition showcases the rich legacy of storytelling within our state and the far reach that a humble (or not so humble!) gator has had on Cajun culture, Louisiana, and the entire country.

Cajun Night Before Christmas 50th Anniversary Edition

Cajun Night Before Christmas 50th Anniversary Limited Edition

9781455627165

$39.95

"Forget Dancer, Prancer, Comet, and Vixen. . . . Good Clement, wherever he is, will not be gnashing his teeth."
--New York Times Book Review

Take the classic story of jolly old St. Nicholas, place it in a Louisiana bayou setting, dress Santa Claus in muskrat "from his head to his foot," pile his skiff high with toys, and hitch it to eight friendly alligators. The result is this modern classic. Fifty years after its first appearance, Cajun Night Before Christmas® has sold more than one million copies and has served as the model for Pelican's ongoing, best-selling Night Before Christmas Series.
The Cajun Night Before Christmas® has been a part of Louisiana's holiday traditions since it was first published in 1973. A delight to both young and old with its rustic full-color illustrations and lively story, it has become a timeless addition to holiday celebrations far beyond south Louisiana, reaching all corners of the country with its charming presentation of Christmas on the bayou and the break-out star of Gaston® the Green-Nosed Alligator.
Conceived by J. B. Kling, Jr., Cajun Night Before Christmas® originally appeared as a Christmas message from Bergeron Plymouth Company of New Orleans. Under the pseudonymous byline "Trosclair," the story won a Clio Award in 1967 from the Academy of Television and Radio Advertising.
Brought to life by the talented James Rice, the humorous illustrations of a colorful bayou Christmas have been nationally recognized as a classic in its genre.
Featuring eight pages of curated content released from the Pelican archives, this slipcased, numbered Fiftieth Anniversary Limited Edition showcases the rich legacy of storytelling within our state and the far reach that a humble (or not so humble!) gator has had on Cajun culture, Louisiana, and the entire country.

Cajun Night Before Christmas 50th Anniversary Limited Edition

Gumbo Weather

9781455627615

$19.99

Adaleigh, a young Cajun girl, has the envie for her grandmother's chicken and sausage gumbo. But there is a problem. It's summer, and Mamere does not cook her gumbo until the weather has just the right chill in the air. Adaleigh tries various get-gumbo techniques, including learning to ask for it in French, but she will have to wait. This picture book for young readers, peppered with Cajun words, celebrates the Cajun culture and the importance of generational bonds.

12 Days of Mardi Gras

9781455626403

$19.99

Repetition, alliteration, and visual humor abound in this Mardi Gras themed riff on the iconic holiday song, perfect for emerging readers and early counters. As each day of the Mardi Gras season passes, a gift is given. Each of the many, many, many gifts is familiar to those who embrace the season's traditions. Coming in twos, twelves, fives and fours, the gifts include majestic masks, floats a rolling, golden shoes, and cherished cups. Colorful illustrations provide lots of additional hijinks and engagement in this soon-to-be-classic holiday tale!

Hot Boiled Peanuts

9781455627714

$19.99

"This whimsical and bouncy book is both a culinary and touristy tour de force. Hot Boiled Peanuts will have a place of honor both at home and on the backseat of a car on an exciting road trip!" --Harry Musselwhite, author of Roshi and the Coyote Choir and Martin the Guitar "This sweet journey highlights all the wonderful regions and local foods in Georgia through a child's eyes. You'll want to try each one!" --Rosalind Bunn, coauthor of All Aboard, Georgia! " Hot Boiled Peanuts isn't just a delightful journey for the taste buds; it's also a heartwarming exploration into Georgia's rich culinary heritage. Seamlessly blending storytelling with history, this book serves as a colorful tribute to the flavors and traditions that have shaped the state." --Matthew Young, writer/director, The Very Airy Library Playful, bouncing rhymes and bright, colorful illustrations guide young readers as they eat their way through the peachiest state in the nation. Pecan pie, fried chicken, shrimp and grits, okra, collard greens, BBQ, and every Georgia treat a child can desire fuel imaginations in this region-by-region tour of the Goober State. (Did you know a goober is a peanut?) During their exploration, children encounter history, landmarks, geography, and more. So sit back with a juicy peach and bag of hot boiled peanuts and get to know the greatest state around.

Rise and Shine, It's Mardi Gras Time!

9781455627530

$19.99

Mardi Gras is the most magical time of year for Petite Float and her papa. This season, Petite is extra excited because, for the first time, she will be joining the other floats in the parade as they roll down the streets of town. Even her dreams haven't prepared her for the splendor that is Carnival: the happy crowds, the hand-painted throws, the dazzling flambeaux, and the sparkling floats. As day turns to night, Petite experiences all the best memories of a childhood Mardi Gras. She wonders at the beads flying through the sky, marvels at the bass drums of the marching bands, and delights in the twirling dancers and caped riders on horseback. As Petite Float makes her way down the parade route, the magic of Mardi Gras fills the air and stirs the imagination. Bright, cheerful art perfectly complements this sweet story and captures the innocent joy of a child's first Mardi Gras.

King of the Shoebox Parade

9781455627578

$19.99

Mitchell the house mouse is cozy in his shoebox home in Grammy's closet. What will he do when her granddaughter snatches the box away to make a miniature float for a Carnival contest? Maybe he will pitch in and even get to ride! Young readers will thrill to Mitchell's adventure involving the long-beloved childhood tradition of crafting a Mardi Gras float from a cardboard shoebox.

Rougarou at Mardi Gras

9781455627554

$19.99

Rougarou loves to play, and sing, and dance--just like you do! But she looks a little different, and sometimes people who don't know her think she is scary. So she stays in the swamp and acts silly with her friends, who love her just the way she is. But on one very special day each year, Rougarou leaves the swamp. It is a day when everyone loves to play, and sing, and dance. People dress up in colorful costumes and go to parades. Can you guess what day it is? It's Mardi Gras, of course! In her sequined costume, Rougarou sparkles and dazzles on Mardi Gras Day as she hits the streets. She stops for beignets, and then she tracks down the Mardi Gras Indians, whose costumes are even more fabulous than her own. A quick bite of gumbo and she is off to cheer on Rex. There are so many adventures to have on Mardi Gras Day! Everywhere there is music. Everywhere there are smiling people. This fun, brightly colored tour of a New Orleans Mardi Gras introduces children to what makes the day so special as well as everyone's favorite Carnival customs.

Rainbow Rodney

9781455627561

$19.99

Way down at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, a very special flamingo stood out among his krewe. For he was not just pink but red, yellow, purple, green, and even orange. Could it be from all the delicious foods that New Orleans has to offer? Young readers will eat their way through the city with Rainbow Rodney in this celebration of classic Crescent City dishes.

Couillon the Crawfish

9781455626106

$19.99

Survival in the swamp is hard work, especially for a delicious little mudbug. Couillon the crawfish is a whole lot of crazy. Despite his small size, he's way more than a handful of tough. Always stand up for yourself!

Clovis Crawfish and His Friends Sixtieth-Anniversary Edition

9781455625635

$19.95

Friendship is the underlying subject as the beauty and dangers of bayou life are depicted in this first story in the landmark Clovis Crawfish series. This commemorative edition features an introduction by the author's daughter and archival material from the beloved series.

Clovis Crawfish and His Friends Sixtieth-Anniversary Edition

Bonfires on the Levee

9781455625918

$15.99

Louisiana author and illustrator Johnette Downing captures charming holiday traditions in this counting book for emerging readers. From one to ten the images of holiday bonfires and Christmas practices along the levees fill the pages. The vibrant illustrations created in cut paper and foam collage enhance the text, offering little ones further engagement in this soon to be classic Christmas tale of waiting for Papa Noel along the levee.

Louisiana Night Before Christmas

9781941879320

$17.99

Down in the swamps of Louisiana, Papa Noël has a big problem. He's hit his head and forgotten who he is. How will the good boys and girls of Louisiana get any presents this year? Mama Noël puts the animals to work alongside the elves to finish the toys and pack this bayou Santa's unique sleigh. Working throughout the night, Mama and her krewe travel up and down the state, guided by levee bonfires. Mama's team of animal helpers are rewarded for their hard work with some delicious local treats left out for Santa and his elves. Louisiana children and their parents will love this new holiday story filled with humorous references to what makes this time of year so special in Louisiana.

Someone in Louisiana Loves You

9781455627691

$19.99

After her chicks drift off to sleep, Mother Pelican takes flight. From Shreveport to New Orleans, she visits many of the places that make Louisiana special. All the while, she thinks about her babies sleeping peacefully in their nest. Mother Pelican knows that we carry the ones we love in our hearts, no matter where we go.

It's Raining in Florida

9781455627905

$10.95

It's raining in Florida. The sky is dark and grey. It's a perfect time for key lime pie! Florida youngsters can while away a rainy day with this entertaining board book.

It's Sunny in Florida

9781455627783

$10.95

It's sunny in Florida. Even the gators think so. It's as bright as a rocket! Young children in the Sunshine State will certainly recognize all the signs of a sunny day in Florida in this exciting board book.

Gator's Big Mouth

9781455627820

$19.99

Stumpy and his brothers Bumpy and Lumpy are born deep in the marsh in this bayou retelling of "The Three Little Pigs." However, this threesome's fearsome foe is not a wolf with large lung capacity but the big bad winds from the Gulf of Mexico. Stumpy knows that his brother's sawgrass nest won't withstand a stiff breeze, much less the storm approaching from the south. As a hurricane rushes in and makes fast work of their first home, Stumpy can't help but open his big mouth and tease his older brothers. " I told you so! " he shouts as the wind rips and roils around them, tearing them from one nest after another. The storm taunts them with clever rhyme, throws them out of home after home, surges, and purges. But it also teaches them about respecting the forces of nature. Stumpy, Bumpy, and Lumpy learn to stay inside and throw themselves a little hurricane party in true Gulf States fashion. With sassy Southern humor and silly illustrated fun, Stumpy and his brothers weather the storm. Now if only Stumpy could learn to keep his big mouth closed when the waters rise and the winds come howling.

Five Little Termites

9781455627844

$10.95

If it's May in Louisiana, the termites are swarming! This counting book will make toddlers and their families laugh--and squirm--as they recognize this annual buggy invasion.

I Know My Louisiana Colors

9781455627745

$10.95

In this board book, Huey the pelican is learning his Louisiana colors. Come fly with him and see how colorful our state can be, with blue in the heron, red in the peppers, yellow in the sunshine, and so much more!

Greta's Gumbo

9781455627837

$19.99

"A masterpiece of wordplay, a riot of visual humor, and a testament to the power of imagination--Webre's tale makes me feel like a child again." --Connie Collins Morgan, author of The Runaway Beignet It's time to make gumbo, but Greta's dad needs groceries and her baby brother is fussy. As her frazzled dad shops for gumbo ingredients, he doesn't notice when Greta, determined to calm her brother, summons the help of a hyperactive monkey, a curious rabbit, and a frozen penguin. The baby laughs. But when a grunting elephant and a lumbering bear cause chaos, the baby wails. Yikes! Can Greta calm the baby and help Dad get groceries for Greta's gumbo? Imagination rules in this fun story for young readers.

All Aboard, Tennessee!

9781455627301

$19.95

A young boy rides the train through Tennessee's beautiful, historic, and interesting landscapes. From the Blue Ridge to the Appalachian Ridge and Valley Region, the Cumberland Plateau, the Highland Rim, and the Nashville Basin, the narrator experiences the marvels of his home state. He hikes, fishes, and even tours Graceland! This is Maggie Bunn's fifth project and she is looking forward to sharing and creating more stories. Rosalind Bunn is the author of nine children's books and is excited to share her newest story with everyone--especially her grandchildren.

My Parrain Is the Loup Garou

9781455627608

$19.99

This original Cajun tall tale is a familial love story between a child and his godfather. Like children on the playground, the child boasts to the reader about his parrain's superhuman strength and wolflike qualities as proof that the godfather is in fact the legendary mythical creature, the Loup Garou. As playmates, the child and the parrain set out on magical adventures, perhaps too good to be true. This lighthearted twist to the often dark oral traditions of the Cajun werewolf is sure to make children laugh and, hopefully, wildly dream

Tanner the Turtle Learns to Swim

9781455626502

$14.95

Tanner the Turtle lives on the banks of the bayou surrounded by animal friends who love to play at the water's edge. Everyone knows, though, that the water can be dangerous if you don't know how to swim. And Tanner is too scared to learn! When his mother brings him to the local swimming pool for lessons, he refuses to even stick his head under the water. With the guidance of Coach Ted, though, Tanner is soon splashing with his new friends and learning valuable lessons in water safety.

Calliope Kate and the Voice of the River

9781455626526

$16.99

Kate, a tall-tale heroine born on a Mississippi River shanty boat, frustrates her ma's attempts to tame her until she astounds everyone by defeating a hurricane through the blaring cacophony of a truly American instrument--the steamboat calliope. A fact-based tale in the tradition of Paul Bunyan, Kate's adventure invites the reader into a unique aspect of American history while bringing to life a strong girl who never gives up and finds her true voice.

Calliope Kate and the Voice of the River

Coyote Tales

9781455627394

$19.99

Rex, a coyote, was born in South Louisiana. Ready for a change from the country life, he headed to New Orleans. There he met Rosie, from uptown, and together they explored all the wonders of the Crescent City. Young readers of this picture book will hold their breaths as the two are tracked by Trapper John. Will Rex and Rosie be able to make a happy home in the city?

It's Hot in Louisiana

9781455627332

$10.95

It's hot in Louisiana--hotter than a beignet, hotter than an alligator's back, hotter than Maw-Maw's red beans and rice! Young children in the Bayou State will certainly relate to all the heat comparisons in this delightfully illustrated board book.

It's Raining in Louisiana

9781455627356

$10.95

It's raining in Louisiana. There's thunder all around, and we have to park on the neutral ground! The Mississippi River is high, but now we don't have to water the plants. Young children in the Bayou State will certainly recognize all the signs of a rainy day in Louisiana in this exciting board book.

Oak Tree, The

9781455627172

$19.99

Life is good for an old Southern oak tree and the family who lives next to it. The tree enjoys watching the children play around it. The family enjoys the shade it provides. Everything seems so perfect. Then, one day, a bad storm heads their way. The oak tree, which has experienced many storms, senses great danger. Its immediate concern is for the family it loves. What will become of the tree? Or the family? Will they see each other again?

Six Foolish Fishermen

9781455614738

$16.99

How foolish could six Cajuns on the bayou possibly be? Down in Louisiana bayou country, six friends--Jules, Jacques, Jean, Ti-Paul, Philippe, and Pierre-love to go out fishing on their pirogues. But these fellows are very foolish indeed. It isn't long before one silly misunderstanding after another results in a hilarious and ridiculous Cajun-flavored folktale that will delight readers young and old. An alternate version of the traditional Seven Foolish Fishermen, this story contains Cajun words and phrases, expressive and bright illustrations, and irresistible good humor.

All Aboard, Louisiana!

9781455626663

$19.95

"Hop on the Crossroads Cruiser in All Aboard, Louisiana! and enjoy another spectacular adventure from Rosalind and Maggie Bunn. What fun to learn about Louisiana's regional treasures through clever verses and bold, animated illustrations! This state-touring series is sure to become a children's classic!'? --Annell Gerson, owner, Bookmiser bookstore "The Bunns have done it again! The All Aboard Series does a fantastic job of showing readers young and old the secret places they need to visit in their favorite states. Beautifully illustrated and in snappy verse, this latest edition will have young readers everywhere asking to hop aboard the nearest train.'? --Chris Negron, award-winning author of The Last Super Chef and Dan Unmasked "As a Louisiana educator, I can't wait to share this wonderful book with my third graders. All young readers will want to 'board the Crossroads Cruiser to see our great state'!'? --Tracy Gaspard, teacher, Baton Rouge "Hop onboard as Rosalind and Maggie Bunn whisk readers away on a fun and exciting cultural journey through Louisiana!'? --Susan Sands, author "All Aboard, Louisiana! does a fabulous job of showcasing many aspects of our state through beautiful illustrations, including our amazing foods, different regions, and historical attractions.'? --Sara Wisdom, librarian/media specialist, Baton Rouge All aboard! Young adventurers won't want to miss out on this pictorial train ride across the state of Louisiana, with richly detailed illustrations introducing children to the state's beautiful and historic treasures. At each stop across the five regions of Louisiana, riders will sample delicious dishes, share in the area's unique culture, and meet the state's wild residents.

Run! Boudin, Run!

9781455625956

$19.99

In charming colloquial language, author and illustrator Ariane O'Pry Trammell presents a story of a very fast boy out to save his catfish from an even faster 'gator! As the denizens of the bayou--the heron, a raccoon, a bullfrog, and the crawfish--urge young Boudin to "run, Boudin, run!," faster and faster they go back to his porch. The repetitive refrain and simple language pair with clever illustrations to capture the imagination of children of all ages. Will that 'gator catch Boudin? Who gets to eat the catfish? Find out in this thrilling adventure for beginning readers!

Thibodeaux Turtle and Boudreaux Bunny

9781455624508

$16.99

Once upon a Louisiana time, there was a turtle and a bunny. The turtle was polite, quiet, and careful; the bunny was rather rude, loud, and impatient. The turtle finally agrees to a big race against the bunny. In this Louisiana version of the Aesop tale, young children will discover that slow and steady wins the race.

Goodnight to da Parish

9781941879139

$16.95

Cornell P. Landry loves writing about Louisiana! The author of the widely popular Goodnight NOLA has written an authentic tribute to St. Bernard Parish that highlights the familiar aspects and attributes of this unique segment of the Louisiana landscape. Written in the vernacular, this clever rhyming ode is an entertaining read-aloud experience for all ages. Illustrated in child-like swaths of color by St. Bernard Parish native Victoria Wisinski, this bedtime story takes readers from the map of "da Parish" to Rocky & Carlo's, Delacroix, and even "da places dat's no longer dere" including Bubba John's, Village Square, Penny Lanes, and St. Mark's Fair. Much as the original that inspired the format, Landry and Wisinski give a loving nod to the sights and sounds as they say "Goodnight to da Parish."

Randolph Solves the Mardi Gras Mystery

9781455625819

$17.99

Randolph is back, and this time it's to save Mardi Gras! It's Randolph's first time at a Mardi Gras parade, and the little coonhound and his best friend, Olivia, are having the time of their lives. Until . . . Oh no! Disaster strikes! A masked bandit tries to ruin Mardi Gras, and Olivia is sure her outing to the parade is over. Randolph, the cutest, most curious puppy, would do anything to see his best friend smile. He knows that it's up to him to save the day! Together the pair takes off in search of the only thing that can get the parade back on track. What's that thing, you ask? Follow along to see if the Mardi Gras mystery gets solved! Randolph learns lessons about friendship, intertwined with a little Louisiana tradition in this adventure that will have readers exclaiming, "Laissez les bons temps rouler!"