Coleen Salley was New Orleans' premier storyteller, but her reputation as a
children's literature expert extended worldwide. Reading favorites like Cajun
Night Before Christmas, she visited hundreds of schools and
libraries across America, Asia, and Europe. Her exuberant style made her
popular with children and adults alike. Coleen Salley made books come alive!
As Professor Emerita at the University of New Orleans, where she taught for
thirty years, Ms. Salley inspired countless future teachers, writers, and
illustrators. She also served as a Visiting Professor at Simmons College,
University of Southern California, University of Denver, George Peabody College,
and Louisiana State University.
Ms. Salley was a sought-after panelist and presenter who has appeared for
groups as diverse as the American Booksellers' Association, the New Orleans
Jazz and Heritage Festival, and Disney Studios. She enjoyed tailoring her program's
themes to the needs of her audience; some of her specialties included
storytelling techniques, early childhood literature, and promoting books by
first-time authors.
A born entertainer, Coleen Salley has even starred in a VISA commercial with
Pelican's own Gaston® the Green-nosed Alligator. She was also the inspiration
for the ABBY Honor-winning picture book, To Market, To Market, written by
Anne Miranda, with illustrations by Janet Stevens.
Who's That Tripping Over My Bridge was Coleen Salley's first book.
She was also the narrator of the Cajun Night Before Christmas/Cajun Night
After Christmas CD, available from Pelican. Salley passed away in 2008. |