Photos courtesy of Deer Park School District
Retired Deer Park High School teacher Janet Werner recently wrote and published a book “A Pear in an Apple Tree: A Journey with Multiple Sclerosis.” The book, which took almost four years to complete, features cover art and illustrations by Werner’s former student Kyle Horne.
Werner, who was an educator for almost 40 years, taught at Deer Park as well as Southampton College and SUNY Stony Brook. She served as the SADD Club adviser at Deer Park High School for 20 years prior to her retirement, and received numerous accolades during her career, including SCOPE Teacher Service Award, Dowling College/News 12 Long Island Educator of the Month and Who’s Who Among American Teachers. Her book was endorsed by the president and CEO of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
“I was diagnosed with MS in 1986,” Werner said. “My book covers a short autobiography leading up to my diagnosis, then the diagnosis and learning to deal with my MS. My favorite part of the book is Words of Wisdom quotes from friends and colleagues on what advice they would give to someone facing a challenge.”
After graduating from Deer Park High School in 2006, Horne attended SUNY Old Westbury, where he obtained a degree in visual communications. He has since illustrated more than 25 children’s books, and his artwork has been displayed in numerous schools and libraries.
Werner and Horne held a book signing at Jack Jack’s Coffee House in Babylon on Feb. 11. They are currently collaborating on a children’s companion book titled “Mommy is Mizzy Today,” which will focus on providing help for children in understanding multiple sclerosis and its effects on family members.
Pear in Apple Tree: Retired Deer Park teacher Janet Werner, recently wrote and published a book “A Pear in an Apple Tree: A Journey with Multiple Sclerosis,” featuring cover art and illustrations by Werner’s former student, Deer Park Class of 2006 graduate Kyle Horne.
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