Good gifts to bring from US?

Hello - I'm visiting some friends soon in Italy and I would like to bring gifts from the US (I live in New Orleans). What are some small gifts that you like to receive from the US? It has to be easy to travel with in carry-on luggage. I need a few gifts for adult friends, and a couple of gifts for their young children (3-6 year olds). I'm thinking of some mardi-gras toys, some New Orleans themed dish towels, and a children's book. Other ideas?