Later Tartan Gator: A New Orleans Tale
Later Tartan Gator: A New Orleans Tale
Written by: Lorraine Johnston
Illustrated by: Preston Asevedo
Mascot Books, April 2013, Fiction
Suitable for ages: 4-8
Themes/Topics: kindness, courage, community, cultural awareness
Brief Synopsis: An alligator at the New Orleans Audubon Zoo gets into colorful trouble when Scottish tourists ignore the sign “DO NOT FEED THE ANIMALS AT ANY TIME”. A little girl comes to the rescue through the help of local shopkeepers.
Opening pages: “If you’re ever going to visit Audubon Zoo, remember this story, it is quite true. There is an old alligator who sits in his pen. He’s got quite a story, it all started when…”
Why I like this book: Later Tartan Gator: A New Orleans Tale written by Scottish author Lorraine Johnston weaves the love of her own culture with the culture of New Orleans through her choice of setting and characters. Themes and topics addressed are valuable teaching tools. The alligator learns there are consequences when rules are broken. A little girl shows kindness and courage by her desire and actions to help him solve his problem. And through cooperation with a community chocolate shop, the little girl helps the alligator return to his original self.
Thanks Keila for the wonderful review and thanks for those lovely comments from all. I LOVE New Orleans and consider it a home from home. A donation will be given to St Thomas Community Health Centre in New Orleans for each book sold.
🙂
Very cute cover. The story sounds charming as well.
Looks like a great example of creative nonfiction. Love that the story is true!
Now I have to go to the library to see if I can find this book!!!! 😀
I’ve actually visited that Zoo with my kids years ago. I don’t remember the gators, but I do remember the flamingos! New Orleans is truly a city with “local color”. Thanks for sharing, Keila!
And one of the nicest zoos in the US I might add. Thanks for stopping by Jarm. 🙂
Former neighbor in no 1822.
What an entertain an unusual New Orleans/Scottish tale. Great share! Glad you joined PPBF.
Thanks Patricia. And I am a faithful follower of your Children’s Books Heal. Love the books you review!