Hey There, Book Lover!
What People Are Saying About Mardi’s Dog Parade
“The cozy New Orleans opening and charming illustrations will immediately resonate with anyone who has visited “The Crescent City” or experienced a Mardi Gras parade.
Young readers and their parents will be delighted when Mardi decides to “bring New Orleans to Florida” and then turns into a parade leader.
The tone is gentle, affectionate, and celebratory, and the whole premise of a dog adjusting to a new home by recreating the old one fits the kind of reassuring, emotional arc that children enjoy. Readers of all ages will relish the cultural touchstones here — the beads, Mardi Gras, beignets, jazz — because they give the story its special identity.
My favorite line: “If he couldn’t go back to New Orleans, he would bring New Orleans to Florida!”
That line is the cleanest expression of the story’s emotional pivot. It’s simple, resolute, and sweetly proactive, and it turns homesickness into action in a way that feels true to the cozy-hopeful promise of the book.”
Renee Garrison, Past President, Florida Authors and Publishers Association, Award-Winning Author
“Through the lively pup, Mardi, Altier proves that everyone can experience the "Joie de Vivre" (Love of Life) that Louisianans share no matter where you are or how many paws you have. Mardi's tale is a great reminder, whether you are young or old, that sharing your passion will always invite others to do the same.”
Elise B. Lawless, 2025 Louisiana State Teacher of the Year
