The Story of Esmeralda

Meet Esmeralda the cemetery cat. She’s playful, she’s a bit wild, and she 
guides the lost souls of New Orleans’ St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Esmeralda is a simple girl whose true passion is helping those less 
fortunate than herself. Though she is not rich or popular, she has been 
given the greatest gift of all–unconditional love. Now she wants to share
it with everyone she can.

Inspired by the real Esmeralda, the patron of New Orleans’ famed 
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, this tale tells the origin story of this mystical 
protector whose heart is full of love, compassion, and kindness. 

Guided by the legendary Marie Laveau,
  Esmeralda discovers that death is not an end
and that compassion imparts true meaning to life
—a beautiful narrative that transcends
loss with love.

Conceived by an author navigating 
grief, this story was inspired by walks 
through the cemetery. Solace was
found in playful moments with 
Esmeralda the cemetery cat. It is a
poignant illustrated children's tale
that grapples with life's toughest
lesson.