Meet the Characters

Beau (short for Beauregard)

Curious, kind, and full of questions

Beau is a young American alligator with a gentle heart and a red bandana that hints at his Southern roots. He’s the central character of the story—eager to learn, ask questions, and understand how families work. Through Beau’s eyes, children explore big ideas like fairness, property, and love. He’s thoughtful, expressive, and always trying to do the right thing, even when he’s unsure.

Clara Belle

Warm, wise, and nurturing

Beau’s mom, Clara Belle, is the emotional anchor of the family. She’s a caregiver in every sense—soft-spoken, patient, and full of quiet strength. Her gentle guidance helps Beau navigate everyday challenges, and her love is the thread that holds their home together. She’s the kind of mother who teaches through hugs, stories, and warm meals.

Big Lou

Steady, strong, and full of quiet wisdom

Big Lou is Beau’s dad and mentor. He’s a traditional Southern father figure—firm but fair, with a deep respect for heritage and responsibility. He teaches Beau about values, property, and the importance of community. His presence is calming, and his lessons often come through storytelling and example rather than lectures.

Judge Perch

Wise, fair, and deeply respected

Judge Perch is a dignified pelican who presides over the bayou’s most important decisions. With feathers like parchment and eyes that have seen generations, he brings clarity and justice to the story. He helps Beau and his friends understand fairness—not just in law, but in life. His courtroom is more like a porch, and his rulings always come with a lesson.

Ned

Old, trusted, and full of folklore

Ned is the bayou’s notary—a turtle with a shell full of stories and a mind like a ledger. He’s slow-moving but sharp-witted, and he’s been helping families for decades. Children love his riddles and his quiet chuckle, and adults trust him to keep things in order. He’s the bridge between tradition and understanding.

Remy

Playful, clever, and a little mischievous

Remy is Beau’s raccoon neighbor and best friend. He’s full of energy, always ready to help, and sometimes gets ahead of himself. He’s the comic relief of the story, but also the heart—reminding Beau that friendship means showing up, even when things get messy. His cleverness often leads to unexpected solutions.

Miss Marigold

Sweet, strong, and full of Southern hospitality

Miss Marigold is a brown bear who runs the bayou’s bakery and knows everyone by name. She’s the kind of neighbor who brings pie to your porch and wisdom to your heart. Her kitchen is a place of comfort, and her stories are sprinkled with sugar and truth. She helps Beau understand community, generosity, and the joy of sharing.