Meet Julie Gerdes Becnel
Storyteller & Children’s Author
Julie has always been enchanted by the myths and folk tales that shape our collective imagination and her love of storytelling has taken many forms: from poetry and short fiction to the two children's plays she authored, Journey to the Emerald City and Into the Swamp, which toured with the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre’s Ballet for Children program. Through her creative consultancy, Little Rouge Hen, she helps organizations tell their own stories with clarity and heart. She draws inspiration from the folklore and natural beauty of her Louisiana home and when she isn’t writing or helping clients, she can be found exploring nature with her husband, two children (Bug & Bean), and her very own Lou-ga-rou. Her debut children’s book, Roux’s First Day, published by Pelican Publishing and illustrated by Cullen Bernard will be released Spring 2026.
Roux’s First Day
Roux has never felt so nervous. She's about to begin “Kinder-swamp-garten” and she will be the only Rougarou in her class. As she walks to school beneath the towering cypress trees, one by one, fellow swamp creatures join in, each one different from the next. With their help, Roux’s jitters melt into joy, and she discovers that what makes us different is also what makes us shine. Rooted in Louisiana’s rich folklore, this gentle, playful story introduces the legendary Rougarou in a family-friendly way. Perfect for any little one getting ready for their own big first day, Roux’s tale is a celebration of belonging, courage, and the magic of being yourself.
Click below to order Roux’s First Day and use code ROUX at checkout to save 10-15%.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, May 2 at 4pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Scoops
La Divina Italian Cafe // Baton Rouge
Thursday, May 7
Westdale Heights Academic Magnet School (Private event)
Saturday, May 9 at 11am
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
TBR Books & Tea // Baton Rouge
Saturday, May 30 at 11am
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
Barnes & Noble // Denham Springs
Sunday, May 31 at 2pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
Barnes & Noble // Baton Rouge (Perkins Rowe)
Saturday, June 6 at 11am
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
The Garden District Book Shop // New Orleans
Saturday, June 6 at 2pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
Barnes & Noble // Metarie
Sunday, June 7 at 12pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time @ First Sunday
Louisiana Old Governor’s Mansion // Baton Rouge
Saturday, June 13 at 1pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
Barnes & Noble // Lafayette
Sunday, June 14 - 1pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
Cavalier House Books // Lafayette
Saturday, June 20 at 2pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Summer Reading Spectacular
Barnes & Noble // Mandeville
Saturday, August 1 at 10:30am
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
Knock Knock Children’s Museum // Baton Rouge
Sunday, August 2 at 1pm
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
LSU Museum of Art // Baton Rouge
Saturday, August 15 at 11am
Roux’s First Day Story Time & Book Signing
Barnes & Noble // Westbank
Past Events
Saturday, April 11
Roux’s First Day Book Launch & Story Time
Red Stick Reads Book Shop // Baton Rouge
Tuesday, April 14
Trinity Episcopal Day School (Private event)
Thursday, April 16 at 6pm
Creative Connections Workshop // LSU Museum of Art
Thursday, April 30
LSU Early Childhood Education Laboratory Preschool (Private event)
ROUX’S CORNER
From Kindergarten readiness guides to character coloring sheets, Roux’s corner is filled with learning activities and fun!