June was packed with library performances for the Summer Reading Program titled “Build a Better World.” I had the pleasure of traveling across the highways and byways of Louisiana, my home state.
My tour started in historic Natchitoches for the grand opening the Reading Trail in the Pierson and Millet Park. Pronounced “Nack-a-tish” and named after the Natchitoches Native Americans, this original French colony in Louisiana was established in 1714. Situated overlooking the scenic Cane River, the town was featured in the movie “Steel Magnolias.” When you go for a visit, you will want to stay in one of the many quaint B&B’s, and you will not want to miss eating at Lasyone’s restaurant, the home of the famous Natchitoches Meat Pies!
The first ever Natchitoches Reading Trail featured my Petit Pierre and the Floating Marsh book, illustrated by Heather Stanley. The pages of the book were mounted on approximately 30 plaque installations. Children and families were able to exercise their bodies and minds simultaneously while walking the trail and reading a story.
For more information on the Reading Trail and Natchitoches, please visit the following sites:
Natchitoches.net
Natchitoches.gov
NatchitochesParishJournal.com
Lasyones.com
