Kerri Stoner

I’ve always had a creative streak and a knack for finding blank canvases in every corner of life. Whether I’m designing clothes, planting a garden, dressing a window, or concocting something in the kitchen, I find joy in all of it—except baking. I’m far too fond of improvising to follow instructions!

Following my own spiritual journey, it was no surprise that writing became a therapeutic outlet, leading to the birth of Convent. Born and raised in Metairie, Louisiana, just outside the vibrant city of New Orleans, I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up in such a colorful place. The rich culture and ecological beauty of my home state inspired A Crawfish Tale, a story that offers readers a taste of Louisiana’s incredible wildlife with a flavor that’s unmistakably Southern. (But don’t worry… we won’t be eatin’ this crawfish.)

Illustrating this book was an especially joyful experience that allowed me to explore new creative depths. While layering words onto a page is a newer medium for me, storytelling has always lived in my heart. This particular tale was inspired by my own pet crawfish, who was, in fact, blue. I believe we all spend a lifetime discovering the best way to tell our story—through the work we do, the art we create, or the children we raise. In our own small ways, we all leave a mark on the world. I hope you enjoy the small dent I’ve made.