A Place for Pelicans: The Incredible Story of Queen Bess Island
written by Gayle Webre
Coming September 23, 2025
*Note: pre-orders will be charged at time of purchase, not at time of shipment.
From the author of the beloved When I Was A... series comes a new book about Louisiana's state bird and efforts to save an island they call home.
About the Book
Queen Bess Island, a tiny island along the coast of Louisiana, is an important nesting ground for pelicans. For a long time, Queen Bess had been wearing away, and pelicans were running out of room to build their nests. Then, in 2010, the worst oil spill in history ravaged the island. Oil covered hundreds of pelicans, many died, and the rookery was ruined.
In a grand experiment—the first of its kind—people worked together to completely restore the island. Pelicans returned to nest in record numbers. Today, Queen Bess Island is full of life.
With beautiful photography and fascinating information, A Place for Pelicans presents the inspiring story of Queen Bess Island and the magnificent birds that nest on it.
About the Author
Gayle Webre holds a Master’s + 30 from the University of Southwestern Louisiana and has worked in elementary education for twenty-five years, primarily designing and implementing enrichment curricula for gifted children. She generally lives with her nose in a book or talking about books she’s read. You might also find her writing, hosting gatherings for family and friends, playing with her grandchildren, or riding her tricycle. (Yep!)
© University of Louisiana at Lafayette Press and Gayle Webre
Hardcover | 48 Pages | 8" x 10" | ISBN: 9781959569268