Author Hugh Brewster launched his latest book, Carnation, Lily, Lily Rose (Kids Can Press) in a Rosedale garden, connecting to the book’s subject, a painting of little girls in a garden by John Singer Sargent. Brewster wrote and produced a play for the occasion, and the event raised $7,000 for Human Rights Watch. (All photos by Ian Brewster)

Hugh Brewster (fourth from right) poses with the cast of the play based on his book Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose.

Barbara Payne, Sis Weld, Hugh Brewster, and host Brenda Dinnick, who offered the use of her garden for the launch.

The garden pool becomes the River Thames.

Actors wearing flower wreaths for the birthday party scene.

Mary Kapusta, Judy Brunsek, and Karen Li of Kids Can Press, with former Kids Can president Valerie Hussey (second from right).

Author and columnist Margaret Wente with husband Ian McCleod and Nobel Prize winner John Polanyi with wife, artist Brenda Bury.

Children’s author Linda Granfield with husband Cal Smiley.

Editor Wanda Nowakowska chats with agent Beverley Slopen.

Thom Stoneman as John Singer Sargent sketches in the garden.