The Little Purple Mardi Gras Bead - by Julie Rowley (Paperback)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

Throw me out there, mister!

When Carnival rolls around in New Orleans, everyone gets into the celebration--including the beads! On Fat Tuesday, a plain string of little purple beads hangs from a hook on a parade float. His fervent wish is to be caught by someone special. The bigger and fancier beads tell him that no one will ever catch him. But a little hope and determination may go a long way in the magical season of Mardi Gras! When the bead spots a little princess in the crowd, he knows she is the person for him! Will she try to catch him? The heartwarming tale offers opportunities for a discussion of bullying, self-worth, and inclusion with young readers. The delightful story and illustrations from this daughter/father team will charm the entire family and become a parade route favorite!

Raised in New Orleans, Julie P. Rowley holds a master's of education in early childhood curriculum and instruction from the University of New Orleans. Her stories were inspired by her daughter's imagination.

A graduate of Loyola University New Orleans, John R. Paquette is a retired editor. He is also a professional vocalist and a talented portrait artist and illustrator. He enjoyed collaborating with his daughter.

From the Back Cover

When Carnival rolls around in New Orleans, everyone joins the celebration--including the beads! As the beautiful floats are readied for the parade, the big and fancy beads tell the little purple Mardi Gras bead that he's much too plain to ever be treasured. Will hope and determination make his dreams--and those of one very special little girl--come true? Ride along and find out!

With delightful illustrations by John R. Paquette, The Little Purple Mardi Gras Bead from author Julie P. Rowley delivers all the magic and heart that make Mardi Gras an experience like no other.

Inspired by her daughter, author Julie P. Rowley creates tales that bring New Orleans' traditions to life. Rowley was raised in New Orleans and holds a bachelor of fine arts from Louisiana State University and a master of education in early childhood curriculum and instruction from the University of New Orleans. She teaches and lives in Chalmette, Louisiana.

Retired editor and graphic artist John R. Paquette is the father of the author. He was born and raised in New Orleans and is a graduate of Loyola University. In addition to illustrating this project with his daughter, Paquette is a portrait artist and professional vocalist. He makes his home in Mandeville, Louisiana.