Additional information
by Julie Gerdes Becnel (Author), Cullen Bernard (Illustrator)
As she braves her first day of school in the swamp, Roux discovers that what makes us different is also what makes us shine.
Roux has never felt so nervous. She's about to begin "kinder-swamp-garten" and she will be the only rougarou in her class. As she walks to school beneath the towering cypress trees, one by one, fellow swamp creatures join in, each one different from the next. With their help, Roux's jitters melt into joy, and she discovers that what makes us different is also what makes us shine. Rooted in Louisiana's rich folklore, this gentle, playful story introduces the legendary rougarou in a family-friendly way. Perfect for any little one getting ready for their own big first day, Roux's tale is a celebration of belonging, courage, and the magic of being yourself.
Author Biography
Julie Gerdes Becnel has always been enchanted by the myths and folk tales that shape our collective imagination and her love of storytelling has taken many forms: from poetry and short fiction to the two children's plays she authored, Journey to the Emerald City and Into the Swamp, which toured with the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre's Ballet for Children program. Her creative consultancy, Little Rouge Hen, helps organizations tell their own stories with clarity and heart. Julie draws inspiration from the folklore and natural beauty of her Louisiana home, and when she isn't writing, she can be found exploring nature with her husband, two children, Bug and Bean, and her very own Lou-ga-rou.
Cullen Bernard has been creating art for as long as he can remember. Growing up, he was captivated by the wonder of animation. As he got older, his love for storytelling evolved through the pages of comic books that inspired him to develop a style of his own. Today, Cullen combines those early influences with a passion for storytelling to create vibrant, character-driven illustrations. Whether he's crafting whimsical universes from scratch or collaborating with authors to bring their stories to life, his goal remains the same: to create art that sparks wonder, inspires joy, and lingers in the hearts of readers.
