P is for Pelican: A Louisiana Alphabet

Discover America State By State

by Anita C. Prieto, Laura Knorr (Illustrator)

Illustrated by Laura KnorrFrom its festive Mardi Gras parades to its wildlife-filled swamps, Louisiana is a state of great diversity. "P is for Pelican: A Louisiana Alphabet" is an alphabet book that introduces readers young and old to the culture, history, and wonders of this Gulf state. Author Anita C. Prieto's fun-filled rhymes and informative text are highlighted by artist Laura Knorr's vivid and descriptive artwork.

Genres: Childrens, 2nd Grade, Picture Books, Education, Nonfiction

40 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2003

Reviews

[Amara]

Lovely way to teach about Louisiana culture and history! The book is historically accurate and culturally too.

Pretty illustrations.

[Veronica]

This is an alphabet book that incorporates details of Louisiana history. Okay, so my positive for this book is that the author makes it a point to display topics that are not as well known throughout our history. For example, everyone knows about Mardi Gras, hurricanes, and alligators, but she also includes Xavier University, Rosedown Plantation, and Vieux Carre. Being a Louisiana native, even I was founding out things I never knew before. Now, going on to the bits I did not like as much. So, I found that some of the rhymes seemed forced like they did not come off as naturally as some of the others. I also was not a fan of the dark and dingy illustrations. I would have much rather brighter tones to depict the environment of Louisiana. I do think this book would be helpful in a classroom, though. As the reader will found out, the book's main verse is written in rhyme; however, there are also endcaps on every topic that explains it more in-depth. With this component, I think you could use this book in a variety of different grades or even different levels of learning within the same grade. As I do think this book would be helpful in an elementary social studies classroom, I personally am not a fan. I kept putting this review off time and time again because I was just unmotivated to write about it. Alas, here I am. I would be curious to hear what other people thought of these books, especially because I usually do not like history texts.

[Tara]

Second book of these state alphabet books that we have read. Love that there is a simple verse for each letter and a more detailed reading for older children. Lovely illustrations. Super informative and fun. Would happily own!

[Kim]

A Louisiana alphabet.

[Serena Keene]

40 pages I read this book. A wonderful book, it is filled with La history and the pictures are amazing. A must read for all our children

[Kristen LeBlanc]

"P is for Pelican: A Louisiana Alphabet" features gorgeous illustrations accompanied by gentle rhyming, from line to line, that carries the reader along an alphabetical journey to learn more about the animals, cuisine, and culture found throughout the state of Louisiana. Each image looks photo realistic but are paintings. Notable choices in letter representation would have to be "A is for alligator," "H is for Hurricane," "L is for Louisiana Purchase," and "Z is for Zydeco." After reading this book online, I ordered a copy for myself. Being a future educator for the state of Louisiana, this would be an excellent text choice for a Louisiana History lesson. I highly recommend it and readers will not be disappointed.

[Elizabeth Edwards]

what do i know about Louisiana ... well i would never live there permanently because of the how low laying it is ... too much flooding for my liking. so scary. VA is low enough thx. but gorgeous to travel 2. well just don't leave Texas and head there ... after going 80 mph u will go like 55 mph. so that is a huge difference as well ... LOL!! fun sights. great folks. lots of history. culture. fun times. amazing views. i could tell u some unhappy camping moments ...but any who ... great state. great illustrations.

[Bayou des Cannes Cajun]

This book is fantastic. I live 1000 miles away from my beloved Louisiana and this book afforded me the luxury of teaching my children about the culture I love so very much. My children loved learning the words. This book is informative as well as entertaining. It is filled with gorgeous illustrations. Great addition to a child's library!

[Theresa]

pictures, history, facts, information and ideals about louisiana

[Brittany Buckles]

We love this book. I love reading to my children about our culture and state, and this book covers both so nicely.

[Kim]

Learning about Louisiana.