Three Catfish, One Gator, and Two Friends

Catfish, gators, and friends. That is the topic of my blog today.

Last fall, my cousin Abby asked if she could give my name and info to a co-worker. Both are teachers in the Covington, Louisiana area and her fellow teacher was looking for an illustrator.

I do what I always do when someone brings a potential opportunity – I said yes!

Angela Porter and I met over lunch one Saturday in October. Abby joined us and by the time all the bread had been eaten, it was apparent that not only would I be designing and illustrating Angela’s book, but we would also be friends. 

Can I tell you how much I love what I get to call my “job?” Let me assure you, that while it is work, it is not a job for me. It’s a privilege and a joy.

Over the past eleven years I have helped many aspiring authors bring their dream of a published book to life. I fell into the role by chance after moving from Nashville to south Mississippi to be with my mother. I will forever be grateful that I heeded the call and spent the last six years of her life with her. 

At first, she did not understand what I was trying to do. I would overhear her on the phone with one of her many friends saying, “Oh, Tracey is good. She is over in her office coloring, or whatever it is.” Once she saw copies of the books, she finally understood. I would then hear her say, “You know, Tracey creates books for people.”

Back to Angela Porter. She grew up in San Diego, CA. Her parents are originally from Guam, so she grew up learning their traditions. She became a percussionist in her early adult life toured with the band Big Mountain. During that time, she met her husband, Will. They eventually left the band when he went into the military, and they ended up stationed in Louisiana. She began teaching kindergarten and has not stopped since.

She has dreamed of putting the many stories she has shared with hundreds of children over the years into book form. She also wanted to feature the culture, people, and animals of Louisiana. A subject not overly promoted through children’s literature.

I started drawing in November, took a break for the holidays and Covid and I am proud to announce that The Three Little Catfish is now available through Amazon.

Set in Algiers Point, the fable is about three sibling catfish and how they navigate life in the waters of the Mississippi with a local bully named Gustav the Gator.

The color palette is vibrant and a little fantastical – much like Louisiana – and the story carries a valuable lesson on learning how to be a friend, apologize, and love one another.

Angela is busy planning a launch party for her family and friends, and our summer will be full of book signings, festivals, and seeking out potential retailers to carry the book.

This is the first in a series, and plans are underway for another book this fall.

If you have a little one at home, or littles in your life, I encourage you to visit Amazon and make a purchase. Eventually, she will have a website and of course, will have copies to purchase at book signings. I also invite you to follow her page on Facebook and Instagram – Angela R. Concepcion Porter Author.

How lucky am I? With each new author, I seem to gain another friend. Angela is no exception. I thank her for allowing me the opportunity to bring her dream to life. If God does not grant me anything more, I have had a fantastic life.

Hmm, now I am craving some catfish!