Read A Song of Louisiane

Here is a great review written by Marigny Dupuy in The Times Picayune for my new book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane.

Books to Grow On

Read a song of Louisiane
Johnette Downing's latest book focuses on the state's food and music
The Times Picayune
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
By Marigny Dupuy

Johnette Downing is a powerhouse in the world of Louisiana children's music -- she's a singer, songwriter, performer, traveling educator, writer and illustrator, and a Louisiana native. Author of three books for children (with another coming in the spring), all related to songs, and creator of seven CDs (several of them award-winning), Downing also travels extensively throughout Louisiana, the United States and internationally (she is scheduled to perform in Dubai in March 2009), spreading the word about all-things-Louisiana through a variety of programs and workshops. Music -- specifically Louisiana music -- defines everything that Downing does.

The appealing text in her latest book for young children, 'My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane,' written and illustrated by Downing (Pelican Publishing Company, $15.95, ages 3-7), is an adaptation of a traditional song, as were the words in her two successful previous books, "Monday is Red Beans in Louisiana" and "Down in Louisiana." Focused on the food and music of our state, the gently rhyming text leads the reader from well-known places such as New Orleans and Lafayette to lesser-known spots in Louisiana such as Mamou, Albany and Ruston, gathering delicious food and musical instruments along the way. Downing's colorful collage illustrations add to the playful spirit of the text.

Music to accompany the adapted lyrics appears at the back of the book, along with a glossary with helpful pronunciation guides and additional information about the Louisiana cities and towns in the text. Anyone who has heard Downing's sweet, clear voice singing to a zydeco beat will long to hear her perform this new song.


Thanks Marigny! You're a powerhouse book reviewer!