North Street Elementary School students got a treat Tuesday morning. 

Instead of having to face the cold winds during morning recess, they were introduced to Yvonne, Jacques, and T-Lou, the central characters in New Iberia author Tina Hebert’s new book, “Rebuilding the Cajun Way.”

“I have written a few little books before, but this is the first one I have had published,” said Hebert, dressed in her red kerchief and apron prior to the students’ arrival. 

The book tells the story of three friends who are planning a party until a big storm brews up, wrecking the plans. Instead, the trio join forces to help repair the damage, then celebrate their achievement.

More than just a children’s story, the book is a quick primer on Cajun culture. The pages are sprinkled with local trappings like a pirogue, gumbo, jambalaya and a bayou. It also was a relevant story for Hebert’s publisher, which is based in South Carolina.

“When I was getting the book ready for press, it was right about the time Hurricane Florence hit,” she said. 

“They called and asked if I wanted to push back the date, but I said no. I wanted to be able to release it during hurricane season.”

Hebert’s story, combined with Youngsville native Hannah Credeur’s illustrations, tell the tale of the three friends’ working through adversity beautifully. And now that the book is in and she is able to promote it, Hebert is doing her part as a budding offer, busy promoting her work.

“I will have a book signing Thursday at Books Along the Teche,” she said. “Then, on Saturday, we will have a paid event at The Frosted Apron where the kids will receive a copy of the book plus have a chance to make their own cake!”

If the response from her audience Tuesday is any indicator, Hebert may have a future as a children’s book author. As she asked questions and brought up terms from the book, the students eagerly raised their hands and called out answers.

“Does anyone know what a fais-do-do is?” she asked.

“Go to sleep!” several students replied.

“It’s a party,” said another.

“It’s when you have to go to sleep so grown ups can have a dance,” another chimed in.

Hebert’s book signing, which is open to the public, will be held from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Books Along the Teche, 106 E. Main St. 

On Saturday, Hebert and her book will be featured at The Frosted Apron, 1807 E. St. Peter St. Admission for that event will be $40 per person, but each child will get a copy of “Rebuilding the Cajun Way” as well as a chance to make his or her own Cajun-themed cake.