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.

Melissa Vandiver is a New Orleans-based artist specializing in painting. Growing up in South Carolina with an artist mother, she's been drawing and painting since she can remember. In an attempt to do something practical with her life, she studied architecture at Clemson University, and came to New Orleans shortly thereafter in 2007. She was only supposed to stay two months. Electrified by the vibrancy and culture of the city, she continues to draw inspiration from it as she balances working as a full-time artist, spending time with her husband and tiny dogs, and putting glitter on things.

ISBN: 1946160288

8x11 Hardcover

36 Pages

Published: January 2019