Out this month is the latest in LSU Press’ “Iconic New Orleans Cocktail” series, “The Obituary Cocktail” by local journalist Sue Strachan. While the name of this notorious cocktail may sound dour, it’s a bright, yet potent, mix of gin, vermouth and absinthe, with a history steeped in French Quarter café society. According to Strachan, the book takes a deep dive into the history of the cocktail its place in the city during post-Prohibition rejuvenation, as well as each of the ingredients in the drink, most notably New Orleans and its storied relationship with absinthe and its kissing cousin Herbsaint.
Other books in this series:
Bookstore Spotlight
Octavia Books, the Uptown neighborhood mainstay, is the go-to spot for book lovers looking for community, a curated collection and a history of connection to local and visiting writers.
The shop recently received the “Excellence in Historic Preservation” award from the Louisiana Landmark Society celebrating the shop’s recent renovations that worked to improve the bookstore while preserving its architectural integrity as a 129-year-old corner storefront.
Sign up for the store’s newsletter for information on new releases, book clubs, author events and more. Octaviabooks.com
Around Town:
Baldwin & Co.
Carol Mosely Braun, the first Black United States senator, kicks off the month with a discussion of her life, career and political tenure in celebration of her book “Trailblazer: Perseverance in Life and Politics,” July 1 at 6 p.m. baldwinandcobooks.com
Garden District Book Shop
The “Dog Days of Summer” invites book lovers to escape the summer swelter with a series of pop-up events throughout July, including game nights, crafting events, “Martini Thursdays,” live music and more. gardendistrictbookshop.com
Blue Cypress Books
Blue Cypress Books closes out the month with its regular “The Book Easy Book Club,” July 30, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Each “Book Easy” event features a “a catered dinner as well as drinks including specialty cocktail/mocktail, wine, and sodas” along with a lively discussion of a selected title. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance. bluecypressbooks.com
