In this new full-color volume, Gaston, the friendly green-nosed alligator makes a new appearance and in the process provides the setting for an intriguing and practical lesson in Cajun French. Along with Rice's striking illustrations, a glossary of essential Cajun words is provided.

Peppered with humorous illustrations and quaint turns of phrase, Cajun Alphabet follows Gastonï¿1/2 the Green-Nosed Alligator as he learns his letters so he can attend university. Gaston's alligator friends assist by contorting into hilarious positions to form the letters of the alphabet. From A is Acadia to Z is zombi, learn the bayou's alphabet alongside Gaston as he watches a game of bourï¿1/2 (cards), finds a faux pas in a sunken boat, tests out an igloo, and watches a ouaouaron (bullfrog) hop through the swamp. Grab a box of nanane (candy) and settle down to experience the joie de vivre of Cajun society, language, and culture.

James Rice (1934-2004), in his long, distinguished career as an author and illustrator, produced more than sixty children's books, among them several additions to The Night Before Christmas Series. Cajun Night Before Christmasï¿1/2, Rice's first book, has been nationally recognized as a classic in its genre. Rice taught art and music at both high school and college levels and loved teaching children the joys of writing and illustrating. With more than 2.5 million copies of his books in print, Rice ranks among the nation's best-selling creators of children's books, having received awards from Printer Industries of America and the Children's Book Council.