Experience life in Louisiana with this unique collection of stories about Cajun heritage, history of the state, personal anecdotes, photographs, and maps that take you into the heart of the culture and customs of the area. From the origin of names to idioms specific to Louisiana, Irwin invites you to become aware why certain expressions are used, such as “saving” – or putting away – toys or dishes. As lagniappe, recipes are given at the end of each chapter. Quoi C’est Ton Nom? (What is Your Name) is accompanied by the recipe for Black Pot Rice and Gravy.
Topics include the Atchafalaya River, and the impact on Cajuns settled near the area, to the history of boats built and used to navigate the flooded Atchafalaya areas. Can you imagine going to school by boat? Irwin also expounds upon commercial alligator fishing, the introduction of the nutria, soft-shell crabs, and frog jumping contests. Jousting in Ville Platt, Cajun fiddles in Arnaudville, and accordions made in Eunice are the subjects of other chapters. The custom of Pâquer (egg ‘pocking’ to see which has the hardest shell), with contests held in Marksville and Cottonport, is accompanied by a recipe for Holiday Deviled Eggs. The accompanying photographs are great!
With humor, interesting insights and piquant tidbits of information, this volume is a wonderful vignette of Louisiana culture. Entertaining, thought-provoking, and enlightening, this quick read is one you will want to share with others.
Availability: Book
Rating: ***** Stars (I loved it)
Reviewer: Kathy, Cataloging Librarian