The Mermaids of New Orleans tells the story of the mermaids who reside in the Mississippi River, surrounding the Big Easy. These citizens of the sea are much like their land counterparts, culturally and ethnically. Many New Orleans mermaids play in bass bands, eat “roeballs” in the summer, live in narrow trident houses, and have their own parades (with floats that really float!). And true to mermaid lore, the mermaids are allowed on land one day a year. New Orleans mermaids, of course, choose Mardi Gras, where they can blend in with the vibrant and decorative costumes.

Written bySally Asherand Illustrated by Melissa Vandiver.