In Memory of Beloved Friend, Book Sales Will Benefit Cancer Research
Dallas-based philanthropist and former educator Brenda West Cockerell has announced the release of her first children’s book, entitled In Grandma’s Garden, which she authored as a tribute to her fellow teacher and dear friend, Holly Horton, who passed away from breast cancer in 2009. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of In Grandma’s Garden will benefit breast cancer research and support initiatives through The Beacon Family Foundation.
In Grandma’s Garden is inspired by Holly and Brenda’s shared childhood memories of blissful days spent among the flowers of their grandmothers’ gardens. Written in rhyming couplets with beautiful illustrations by LindaÓlafsdóttir, the book captures the contentment, peace and safety of being alone in a vibrant garden through the creative imagination of a child.
While living in New York City and working as elementary educators, Brenda and Holly formed a lasting friendship cemented by their mutual passion for children, flowers and gardens. They exchanged stories of their grandmothers Violet and Myrtle; of afternoons filled with playful adventure; the magic of childhood; and most of all, of simple moments amid flowers in the safety of Grandma’s garden. Together, they dreamed of creating a children’s book that could bring readers the same joy.
Busy schedules and family moves from New York put the plan for the book on hold, but for almost 30 years, despiteliving a thousand miles apart, the educators remained close. After Holly lost her battle with cancer in 2009,Brenda took it upon herself to create the book the friends had long dreamed of writing.
“My precious friend Holly made things beautiful and joyful wherever she went, and I hope this book will bring some of that same beauty and joy to its readers,” Brenda said. “We want this book to become a family favorite that is passed down from generation to generation, while at the same time, doing something good within our community and for those battling cancer.”
Brenda founded The Beacon Family Foundation in Holly’s honor, and 100 percent of the proceeds from In Grandma’s Garden will be donated toprovide resources for families by funding breast cancer research, educational scholarships and special needs.
In Grandma’s Garden is illustrated by LindaÓlafsdóttir and designed by Chris Mulder. It is available online for purchase for $19.95 at www.grandmasgardenbook.com and www.amazon.com. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitterand Instagram.
About the Author
In Grandma’s Garden is Brenda West Cockerell’s first book. Prior to her work as an author, Cockerellhad a 6-year career as an elementary school educator in New York City and Houston, Texas. With her dear friend Holly as inspiration, Brenda hopes In Grandma’s Garden will bring joy to the lives of children who read it, as well as change to those struggling with breast cancer.
About Holly Horton
Beloved educator Holly Horton served as a teacher and lower school head at The Town School in New York City, Assistant Head of Academic Affairs at the Marin Country Day School, and Head of the Live Oak School in San Francisco, California. She passed away on December 7, 2009 after fighting a courageous battle with breast cancer. Holly dedicated her life to children, helping them grow much like the flowers in her garden. She left many full blooms in her wake.
About The Beacon Family Foundation
The mission of The Beacon Family Foundation is to provide resources for families struggling with loved ones fighting cancer. Funds go toward breast cancer research, educational scholarships and special needs of the community. Founded in 2014 by Executive Director Brenda W. Cockerell, The Beacon Family Foundation is a qualified, exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit charity. For additional information, please visit www.grandmasgardenbook.com.
