For
immediate release . . .For
immediate release . . .
While Louisiana is losing about an acre of land every 45 minutes, much of the nation is not aware that this phenomenon exists. Since the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, wetland loss is an issue commanding more and more national awareness. Billboards shout at Louisiana drivers as they speed past:
“America’s WETLAND: Keep it alive!”
Almost daily, newspapers in Louisiana touch on some aspect of the vanishing wetlands--the causes or the affects. It is often a TV news topic as scientists and lawmakers study and debate possible solutions. But what is being done to educate the children about this vital issue?
Before the Saltwater Came and its Guidebook for Educators is one Louisiana author’s answer to this question. In this delightful book, LaLoutre, a grandmotherly otter, tells the story of growing up in a healthy, freshwater wetland--before saltwater intrusion. She relates real-life events and how they adversely impact her environment. The whimsical watercolor illustrations personify the otters, encouraging children to identify with them. In the end, the otters sadly move away from their home. Lastly, the old otter challenges the reader with a question: “Now, what will you do?”
With the first-of-its-kind fable, life-long Louisiana resident Wendy Wilson Billiot opens the eyes of readers of all ages to her state’s ongoing dilemma. She then asks something of the readers, both young and old. Having lived in south Louisiana for almost 30 years, Wilson-Billiot has seen the wetlands near her home disappear. It is her desire to reach as many children as possible with the otter’s story--her story--the story of nearly two million coastal Louisiana residents.
985-851-7578