Greek-American Author Brianna Koucos Midgley celebrates her Greek heritage, keeps her grandmother’s memory alive, and shares lessons learned in the kitchen with her children’s book series, Yiayia’s Kitchen and related gifts.
From Salt Lake City, Utah, Brianna traces her Greek roots to Sparta, Argos, and Crete. The daughter of Father Elias and Presvytera Ellen Koucos, her Orthodox Faith and Hellenic heritage have played a huge role in her life. As long as she can remember, she shared a special relationship with her Yiayia Fay.
“Being with Yiayia just felt warm, safe, and like home. She taught me many things, including how to show people respect and kindness,” Koucos told Neos Kosmos.
Her mother ran businesses from home and instilled in Brianna a strong work ethic. Brianna earned a Masters in Counseling with an emphasis in Career Development, and for nearly 13 years, worked as a career counsellor/coach and HR professional.
When her yiayia passed away, she found solace in chronicling her memories as stories. At the time, she hadn’t thought about sharing them. But becoming a mother changed everything. Brianna wanted to stay home with her daughter. She thought back to the stories about her yiayia.
Photo: Supplied
Photo: Supplied
Photo: Supplied
Photo: Supplied
“I realised they would be important to share with others who could relate to a special grandparent relationship. Then I knew it was time to finish the stories I’d worked on for over 20 years. I’m extremely grateful to my daughter. Because of her, I am a mom and an author,” she explained.
The three-book Yiayia’s Kitchen series features Koukla, a young girl who spends time in the kitchen with her grandmother. There, Yiayia teaches Koukla about her Greek heritage, shares family traditions, and shows Koukla how to prepare a dish. Something happens that becomes a teachable moment for the child. But more importantly, the books show the unconditional love between a grandparent and grandchild and the significance of family bonds. The books are perfect for kids ages 3-10.
“Ultimately, the books are about sharing love and mutual respect. Whether you are a grandparent, a young boy or girl, or just have someone in your life who is invested in you, you’ll relate to the books,” she said.
Her entrepreneurial spirit kicked in shortly thereafter, and Brianna curated a selection of custom gifts to go along with the books. Yiayia’s Kitchen Books & Gifts was born. In her online store, Brianna sells unique items that make great gifts for kids and their grandparents. She’s garnered quite a following in Australia.
“They’re coming from all over the continent, but mostly from the Melbourne area. I’m honored to see the stories have such a far reach and touch so many,” the author enthused.
Koucos’s recently teamed up with One Creative Mommie and Kantyli Custom Greek Gifts, to offer their Greek-themed items and to support other Greek entrepreneurs.
“They understand that special love and relationship I’ve tried to capture and it’s a great partnership.”
For more information visit www.yiayiaskitchenchildrensbooks.com