Matthew S. Ghergich IV is the author of Dixie the Fiddle Playing Cajun Pixie, an exciting new illustrated story book for children, young adults, and readers of all ages. As the book’s description on Amazon describes, “For centuries, explorers, treasure hunters and curiosity seekers have reported seeing beautiful sparkling lights over the Manchac Swamp just outside New Orleans, known as the haunted swamp there is an impenetrable area of Manchac where a secret society of Cajun pixies live…” The book has earned an Amazon 4.8 star global rating.
Mr. Ghergich is a New Orleans native with a deep-rooted passion for Louisiana’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Born in New Orleans’ Mid-City neighborhood to Matt and June Ghergich III, Matthew grew up surrounded by the rich traditions of his city and close-knit, loving family. His ancestors established the first transportation company in New Orleans in 1852, pioneering sightseeing tours and instilling in Matthew a lasting legacy and love for New Orleans’ world-famous multi-ethnic music, amazing food, and unique celebrations.
As a young child, Matt was literally mesmerized by the imaginative worlds of Disney films, such as Snow White, Fantasia, and Peter Pan. His enchantment, combined with a deep appreciation for Louisiana’s folklore, led Matt to create Yats and His Famous New Orleans Jazzland Band, a story that introduces readers to a secret society of Cajun pixies, including the fiddle-playing Cajun princess, Dixie. This unique book, which continues to sell out each and every printing, seamlessly blends Louisiana’s musical and cultural legacy with the magic of childhood wonder, bringing Matt’s unique characters and stories to life.
Mr. Ghergich is a devoted family man with three grown daughters and five grandchildren. He has conducted readings for children at area public libraries and schools, and has appeared on broadcast TV shows to promote his new book. In addition, Matt was selected to appear at a major book signing event at Melba’s New Orleans, which features the award-winning Lunch & Learn Children’s Literacy Program. At that event, Matt brought a young woman gymnast, who was costumed as Dixie the Fiddle Playing Cajun Pixie and also signed books for the children.
A lifetime avid outdoorsman, Ghergich has always been drawn to the landscapes of Louisiana, whether casting a fishing line or taking his Labrador retrievers on duck-hunting trips through the waterways and wilderness environs of Louisiana… nationally known as The Sportsman’s Paradise. Matt’s love for his state’s vibrant heritage and storytelling traditions was inspired early in his youth by his mother, June, whose captivating tales entertained family and friends alike.
A former student at Louisiana State University (LSU), Ghergich has dedicated his career to crafting Louisiana-inspired children’s stories and theme concepts. His expertise in the state’s wildlife and sporting traditions has also earned him recognition, including being named one of Louisiana Fish & Game Magazine’s “Top 10 Waterfowl Guides.”
Through the captivating writing and storytelling in his award-winning new book, Yats and His Famous New Orleans Jazzland Band, Ghergich celebrates and elevates the spirit of New Orleans and Louisiana, sharing a rich history and imaginative possibilities with readers of all ages.Follow-up sequel books are already in planning, and Mr. Ghergich is in discussions and negotiations to bring his stories to the big screen through feature length film production, as well as an animated television series.
