Mississippi Board Books

Mississippi Board Book Series – It’s Buggy in Mississippi & It’s Muggy in Mississippi

This board book series was born out of a very personal and familiar moment. After illustrating children’s books celebrating Louisiana, Florida, and Texas, I often found myself at book signings here in Mississippi being asked, “Are you from one of those states?”

My answer was always the same—I’m a Mississippi girl.

It became clear there was a missing piece. Mississippi deserved to be represented, especially for its youngest readers. That realization sparked the idea to create books that celebrate the unique charm, humor, and climate of life right here at home.

I reached out to the author I had previously collaborated with on titles like It’s Hot in Louisiana, It’s Sunny in Florida, and It’s Bigger in Texas to explore the possibility of a Mississippi addition. With her encouragement, I began writing—and what started as a collaboration quickly turned into something more personal. After reading my poems, she simply said, “These are great—go with it.”

With that support, I stepped fully into the role of both author and illustrator, creating It’s Buggy in Mississippi and It’s Muggy in Mississippi. These books capture the playful realities of Southern life—from buzzing mosquitoes to thick summer air—through rhythmic, engaging language and vibrant, joyful illustrations designed especially for babies and young children.

This series is more than just a set of books—it’s a celebration of Mississippi’s identity, created by someone who knows and loves it deeply.
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