Nestled in the coastal charm of Florida’s Emerald Coast, a beautiful story is blooming—one as radiant and inspiring as the young woman behind it. Isabella Violet Key, a 20-year-old model, cheerleading trainer, mental health advocate, and now debut author, has just released her first children’s book, Free to Fly: Kathy Lou’s Butterfly Wish—a poetic and powerful tribute to her late grandmother, Kathy Louise Litton.
“It’s been two months without my sweet Nana—my best friend, my safest place, my biggest cheerleader, and such a huge part of my heart,” Isabella shares. “I’ve been praying for God’s guidance and strength, knowing how difficult it would be to grieve and accept this loss. In the heartache, God met me. He placed a powerful calling on my heart—to carry on her beautiful legacy and do something that would continue to shine her bright light.”
That calling blossomed into Free to Fly.
“I always thought I’d write a book someday—maybe 30 years from now—but God had other plans. What began as a way to process pain has become a story filled with hope, purpose, and beauty.”
Kathy Lou, the inspiration behind the tale, was a gentle kind hearted woman with a beautiful soul, a woman of tremendous strength and big dreams.
“My nana was a provider – a safe haven,” Isabella says. “Her arms were always open wide. Her stories lit up our imaginations, and her endless encouragement gave us a reason to dream big. Even while quietly battling her own storms, she poured love into everyone around her and made each person feel seen. Her story was never meant to stay silent—it was meant to bloom,” Isabella reflects.
The idea for ” Free to Fly “ came full circle when Isabella was reading a handwritten letter from her Nana—one she had treasured since the funeral. In the note, Kathy Lou’s letter symbolized the beauty of being free like a butterfly, letting go of strongholds and encouraging others to find beauty even on dark days. The letter, hopeful and deeply personal, became the heartbeat of the book.
The letter was dated April 9, 1996—the same day Isabella, unknowingly, began writing her book this year.
“One Sunday morning, I curiously wondered if there was a date on the letter,” Isabella recalls. “I looked—and it was the exact day I began writing her story. That moment was everything. God planted something beautiful that was conspiring for its ultimate purpose. I know she’s been with me every step of the way.
Free to Fly tells the enchanting story of Kathy Louise, a gardener who nurtures more than just flowers—she sows seeds of hope, courage, and love in a sunlit valley where wildflowers bloom and dreams take root. As butterflies dance and songs of nature surround her, Kathy gently tends to her garden and the hearts around her. Yet, deep within her spirit, she dreams of flying—free like the butterflies she adores.
“This book is a small tribute to the immense impact she had on me. It is a reflection of the life she lived full of beauty and grace. “ Isabella says
More than a book, Free to Fly is also the beginning of a heartfelt initiative: Kathy Lou’s Comfort Kits.
“The first 100 books sold will fund these kits,” Isabella explains. “Each one is planted with love and purpose, offering hope, courage, and healing.”
These baskets will be delivered to hospitals, rehabilitation centers, classrooms, and safe spaces—places where encouragement is needed most.
“Each kit carries more than just a book,” Isabella says. “They hold affirmations, activities, and heartfelt reminders that every person is worthy, seen, and deeply loved.”
It’s a mission rooted in love—and it’s already blooming in the hearts of the community.
You can purchase the book Free to Fly on Amazon by typing in the title. Isabella can also be found at local bookstores for signings this July, Sundog Books and the Hidden Lantern. She would love to sign your copy, get photos and enjoy inspiring crafts with you. To book a collaboration or event, reach out to her at isabellavioletkey@gmail.com. She will be sharing her story and leading mental health activities, crafts and bringing an inspiring word to all of our county libraries, at the Boys & Girls Club, Girls Inc., and NAMI Emerald Coast. Be sure to follow her socials for event updates and to secure a reading date with her.
Isabella will be signing books at The Hidden Lantern in Rosemary Beach from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on July 19 and 20 and at Sundog Books in Seaside from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 26 and 27.
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