By David Vitrano
L’Observateur

LAPLACE – Time for Christmas shopping is almost up, but for those looking for a few last-minute gifts, books can be thoughtful and relatively inexpensive alternative. And this holiday season, those who are looking for some reading that hits very close to home are in luck with the recent publication of three books related to the River Parishes.
LaPlace native Wendy Woods recently published a children’s book called “Welcome Home, Indigeaux.” The tale features the exploits of her actual miniature Australian shepherd puppy as he explores some of the most prominent locations in the region, including Oak Alley Plantation. The book features colorful illustrations on each page and is available a select local retailers such as the gift shop at Oak Alley and Roussel’s Antiques and Fine Gifts in LaPlace as well as online at most major booksellers.
The second book, written by St. Charles Parish native Bert Montgomery, is geared toward a decidedly older audience but now resonates especially loudly with those who lost everything as a result of Hurricane Isaac. In “Going Back to New Orleans: Post-Katrina Re-connections and Recollections,” the author weaves together stories of Hurricane Katrina from those who lived through it. Although the tales are specific to that particular disaster, the messages within will be familiar to anyone struggling to return from tragedy. The book is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and through Nurturing Faith Publishing. All author royalties from sales of the book benefit the United Way of Southeast Louisiana.
The last book was released earlier this year but will be of particular interest to those fascinated with local history. “River Road Rambler,” written by Mary Ann Sternberg, explores some of the most interesting points along the scenic thoroughfare between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Points such as the grotto at St. Michael’s will be familiar to locals while tales of places a little further upriver might inspire a Sunday drive or two. “River Road Rambler” is available from LSU Press and most major booksellers.