Finding Myself Lost in Louisiana

In Finding Myself Lost in Louisiana, Keagan LeJeune explores the unique folklore, landscape, and history of Louisiana, tracing the lives of people in the Bayou State and celebrating the traditions of underrepresented communities. The book is an adventure and a pilgrimage to explore Louisiana's future and reckon with feelings of loss and anxiety accompanying climate disasters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: University Press of Mississippi

In his captivating memoir, Finding Myself Lost in Louisiana, author Keagan LeJeune skillfully intertwines the unique folklore, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history of Louisiana with his own family lineage, which dates back to 1760. Through this intricate narrative, LeJeune delves into the lives of individuals in the Bayou State, confronting the challenging environmental record that characterizes the region's landscapes. Moreover, he celebrates and memorializes the traditions of underrepresented communities in Louisiana, such as his own, which are either vanishing or have already vanished.

Each section of the memoir serves as a captivating journey to fascinating places, but it also becomes a personal quest for LeJeune to find his sense of belonging within the diverse tapestry of Louisiana. The book unfolds as an exhilarating adventure and a soul-searching pilgrimage, exploring the future of the state while grappling with the profound emotions of loss and anxiety associated with climate disasters.

LeJeune embarks on a remarkable journey to the geographic center of Louisiana, where he encounters haunting remnants of Hot Wells, a once-thriving healing resort, and pays his respects at the tomb of folk saint Charlene Richard. With each adventure and cherished memory, he draws closer to his roots, deepening his connection to the land and its people.

Finding Myself Lost in Louisiana is a testament to LeJeune's storytelling prowess and his deep affection for his home state. Through his vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, he invites readers to explore the wonders of Louisiana while also reflecting on the complexities of human existence and the urgent need to address the challenges posed by climate change. This memoir is a must-read for anyone who seeks to discover the soul of a place and understand the profound impact of history, culture, and the natural world on our lives.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496850331