Louisiana for Book Lovers

Years ago, I noticed that when reading a novel where setting was an important element, I'd sometimes find myself incorporating that setting into my daily life–such as cooking certain foods, listening to certain kinds of music, etc. Do you do this too? Once I recognized the tendency in myself, I began to be more deliberate about it, seeking specific smells and sights and sounds that helped evoke the mood of whatever book I was reading.

One Caveat

Within reason, of course. Last week I read the YA novel The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie and decided to try making a batch of Indian Fry Bread, which is referenced in Chapter 13. It just sounded so good! I changed my mind, however, when I realized that the recipe called for making the dough and then deep frying it in lard. Oh well, duh, guess I should've figured that out by the name!

In the end, I settled for putting on this cool song whenever I started to read more of the story.

Getting in a Bayou Mood

Last month I read one of James Lee Burke's "Dave Robicheaux" novels, which always paint a vivid picture of life in southern Louisiana. Though I've lived in Pennsylvania for years, I was born and raised in Louisiana, so there's no shortage of bayou-related mood setters around here, many of which I enjoyed as I was reading. Today I thought I'd share some of my top picks with you.

Before I do, however, here are linked pics for my own books that are set in Louisiana, in case you're in the mood for a down home Mindy mystery. (Click on any of the book covers for more info.)

 

FREE Audiobook

Also, don't forget that you can get the audiobook version of Whispers of the Bayou for FREE by clicking on this link and giving Audible.com a try!

And Now For Some Real Louisiana Mood Setters

Whether you're reading with your eyes or your ears, here are some fun ways to put you in a Louisiana mood.

First, grab something to munch on, like these Bayou Snackers...

...then brew up some delicious Louisiana coffee.

Pour it into your Louisiana mug,

then put that mug on a Louisiana coaster.

Next, set the mood by lighting a Louisiana candle

and turning on your Louisiana lamp.

Then slip on some Louisiana socks (Biegnets! Yum!)

And, for added comfort, grab your Louisiana pillow and blanket.

Now you're finally ready to settle in and start.  Just be sure to keep this Louisiana bookmark handy, so you don't lose your place. 

Happy reading y'all!