I am thrilled to announce that my latest book MADEMOISELLE GRANDS DOIGTS, illustrated by Heather Stanley, has arrived right on schedule!! Pick up your copy in advance of the official release HERE!
You are also invited to the Official Book Launch Party at Octavia Books at 513 Octavia Street, Uptown New Orleans on February 24, 2018 at 2:00 where Heather and I will be reading and signing the books in person! We will have crafts and treats for the children!
This Cajun New Year's Eve tale, published by Pelican Publishing Company, has garnered some great advance reviews:
"For those unfamiliar with the Cajun story, this update may be a welcome respite from the flood of Santa Claus and snow-fairy books crowding the holiday shelves." - Kirkus Reviews
"A legend unfolds in rhyming verse about a young woman, once known throughout the bayous, swamps and prairies for her graceful hands and generosity, who falls victim to a curse. Hauntingly dramatic uses of softly focused darkness and light capture the spirit of this spicy Cajun New Year's Eve tale. Children will be equal parts thrilled and spooked to set their shoes out at night in hopes that Mademoiselle Grands Doigts will fill them with treats." - Foreward Review
"Johnette Downing has managed to tell a Cajun ghost story with levity and love. As with her many other enjoyable books and songs, she uses authentic terms, images, and dialect to evoke Louisiana lore that inspires retelling and celebrating. This is a fast-paced and evocative read-aloud book that teaches a timeless lesson."
--Amy Kirk Duvoisin, Education Director, Louisiana Children's Museum
"You never fail to tell the stories we need to hear, the children and their parents and grandparents too. And, so beautifully illustrated." - Darrell Bourque, Former Louisiana Poet Laureate