DANA HOLYFIELD, LOUISIANA AUTHOR My name is Dana Holyfield, and I hail from Slidell, Louisiana—a quaint town nestled just outside of New Orleans. I am an independent self-published author. "Swamp Cooking with the River People" was my inaugural cookbook, published by Ten Speed Press in 1999. However, it transcended the conventional boundaries of a mere cookbook; it intertwines storytelling with an abundance of my photographs that capture the essence of swamp living. As the granddaughter of the original Swamp Monster hunter, Harlan Ford, I authored a book chronicling the legendary Honey Island Swamp Monster and produced a documentary film that has facilitated my numerous guest appearances on various television programs still airing on the Travel Channel, Discovery, History, and Quest. These shows include "Mysteries at the Museum," "Fact or Faked: Paranormal Files," "America Unearthed," "Swamp Monsters," "Swamp People," "Book TV," "Hannity's America" on Fox News, and "News with a Twist," among others. In addition to my explorations of culinary arts and Swamp Monsters, I have also penned children's literature and short novels. Writing is my fervent passion, and I have a plethora of stories yet to be unveiled. Stay tuned!
For more information on my self-published books, please click on the images below.
HONEY ISLAND SWAMP MONSTER DOCUMENTATIONS Available on Kindle eBook, Audio Book, and Paperback Click on Book Cover Image to Order on Amazon
SWAMP SIRENS
Swamp Sirens is a story about a fisherman, burdened by a shattered heart, resolves to dwell in isolation upon his floating houseboat amidst the murky waters of the Louisiana swamp, intent on achieving sobriety or perishing in the attempt. Just as he teeters on the brink of surrendering to despair, he encounters a freshwater mermaid ensnared in his fishing trap. Initially, he suspects that the vision is a mere figment of his imagination, a consequence of alcohol-induced hallucinations. His disbelief in her existence persists until she miraculously rescues him from drowning in his own sorrow.
AROUND THE CYPRESS BEND
Around the Cypress Bend is a romance novella about Amos, a rugged Cajun Swamp Man residing on a rustic houseboat in the enchanting Louisiana bayou. He is far removed from the hustle and bustle of civilization. So, when he rescues an injured city woman, who was posing for photographs until an alligator chased the photographer away in search of help, he remains unaware that she is a renowned New York fashion model sent back to her roots for a photoshoot. This marks the first instance in which a man has not pursued Claire for her fame and fortune, prompting her to withhold her true identity for the time being. Amos brings Claire to his humble floating cabin on the water to tend to her injuries. This unexpected adventure rekindles forgotten memories of the bayou, leading to a passionate romance that simmers as intensely as cayenne pepper. However, Amos soon grapples with the realization that he has fallen for a woman he may not be able to retain within the confines of the swamp. Or can he?
HONEY ISLAND SWAMP MONSTER DOCUMENTATIONS
Written by Dana Holyfield, the granddaughter of Harlan Ford, the original seeker of the elusive Louisiana Honey Island Swamp Monster. This book meticulously chronicles Harlan Ford's legendary encounter, accompanied by captivating evidence unearthed from Ford's possessions, including an 8mm film reel that vividly depicts the creature traversing the swamp in an upright posture. Additionally, the book serves as a compendium of other local encounters, enriched with illustrations and photographs that complement the narratives. I sincerely hope you derive pleasure from my book. Should you read it, I would be grateful if you could leave a review. Thank you.
THE DOCUMENTARY FILM ON VIDEO ON DEMAND Click Image Below For More Information about my Documentary Film.
THE LITTLE BAYOU MERMAID
Children's Book
The Little Bayou Mermaid is a children's picture book narrated in verse, centering around a mermaid named Aqualina who resides in a murky lagoon. She forges an unlikely friendship with a Cajun boy named Remy when he liberates her fin from a tangled fishnet. Eager to expand her horizons, she implores him to share his schoolbooks, yearning to learn about the world beyond her watery domain. Witnessing her eyes illuminate with newfound knowledge ignites Remy’s aspiration to become a teacher. However, as summer wanes, he must depart for college, far from the enchanting bayou, yet he vows to return. When he fails to come back, the Little Bayou Mermaid employs the wisdom gleaned from her books to embark on a quest to find him. It is during this journey that she uncovers the heartbreaking truth: he has suffered an accident that has robbed him of his memories of her. In fleeting moments when she crosses his mind, he dismisses her as nothing more than a figment of his imagination.
THE VERY HAIRY SCARY HONEY ISLAND SWAMP MONSTER Children's Book
This enchanting tale is crafted for children, composed in verse, and draws inspiration from the legendary Honey Island Swamp Monster, a genuine myth of Louisiana. The author of this delightful children's narrative is the granddaughter of the illustrious monster hunter, Harlan Ford. She is also the esteemed author of "Honey Island Swamp Monster Documentations." You may have encountered Dana Holyfield, the author, on television programs such as Mysteries at the Museum, Swamp People, Swamp Monsters, and Into the Unknown, where she has shared insights regarding the Honey Island Swamp Monster. Motivated by her own experiences growing up as the granddaughter of a local monster hunter and her diligent research into evidence suggesting that a Swamp Monster prowls behind the majestic Cypress trees of Louisiana's Honey Island Swamp, she has embarked on the creation of this captivating children's book.
MY COOKBOOKS
SWAMP COOKING WITH THE RIVER PEOPLE COOKBOOK STORYBOOK PHOTO JOURNAL Click Image Below for More Information
If you relished the cookbook entitled "White Trash Cooking," then you are bound to find delight in "Swamp Cooking with the River People." This unique volume serves as a cookbook, a narrative, and a photographic journal all rolled into one. Within its pages, a plethora of images offers a captivating glimpse into the off-grid river life nestled in the heart of Louisiana's Honey Island Swamp. Additionally, you will discover the amusing tale of the Reunion of Gator and LouAnn, an exhilarating alligator rodeo, and the Elks Lodge Double Wedding, among other engaging narratives. It is worth noting that one of the stars from the "Swamp People" television series makes an appearance in this cookbook as well, since the original edition was published many years prior to the airing of the shows featuring swamp dwellers capturing alligators. In a rather amusing turn of events, a casting agent from the popular TV show reached out to me from New York City after viewing my Swamp Cooking videos online, inquiring if I knew anyone capable of catching alligators. Laughably, I directed them to my then-husband, whom I confidently assured could capture a sizable alligator with his bare hands. Subsequently, the producers traveled to Louisiana to meet him, ultimately casting him in Season 10, where he has appeared intermittently ever since. This revised edition of Swamp Cooking has undergone enhancements since its original release, boasting an abundance of additional photographs. It serves as an exceptional gift for cookbook aficionados, a delightful addition to your coffee table for leisurely reading, or a captivating conversation starter. Furthermore, if you are an avid fisherman or an outdoor enthusiast, you are certain to appreciate the recipes contained within as well!
SWAMP WOMEN PRESERVING A WAY OF LIFE & RECIPES
COOKBOOK WITH PHOTO ART
NEW ORLEANS MARDI GRAS COOKBOOK
COOKBOOK WITH HISTORY OF MARDI GRAS & LOTS OF COLORFUL PHOTOS
New Orleans Mardi Gras Cookbook This delightful novelty cookbook is adorned with vibrant photographs showcasing costumed revelers in the iconic French Quarter, as well as captivating boat parades, dog parades, and lively street parades. It features an exquisite array of Cajun and Creole dishes, complemented by delectable Southern cocktail recipes, including the quintessential King Cake recipe originating from New Orleans. Additionally, readers can delve into the origins of Mardi Gras itself. This coffee table cookbook is not only a visual feast for your guests but also serves as a thoughtful gift for anyone who cherishes the spirit of New Orleans and the exuberance of Mardi Gras.
Thank you for visiting my website. Check back soon for new releases. Sincerely, Dana Holyfield
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