Cebu Memories of Home, a compilation of well-read columns of the late Jaime Picornell and his reportage on Cebu as a social arbiter, was launched by The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation at the Casino Español de Cebu.

Jaime, to say the least, led a very interesting life — a life fulfilled some only dream of. He was born in the midst of World War II to Spanish parents Santiago Picornell and Ana Rodriguez.

Jaime’s love for writing started in the school journal at the Colegio de San Jose Recoletos through a personality column and was a frequent contributor for short stories and poems.

His first public column, Party Line, saw print in July 1963 in the local Morning Times newspaper. He also wrote for several national publications, including lifestyle and ladies’ glossies.

Jaime’s mission was “to give the reader a good read,” and to make his wonderful experiences their very own.

The 512-page soft-bound book is divided into 10 chapters that delve on his boyhood and college years, the Martial Law years, his role as a dedicated husband to Cecilia, father to sons and his stint as honorary consul of Spain for several years.

In February 1996, he was bestowed a Knighthood in the Orden de Isabel la Catolica, the highest honor an ordinary citizen of Spain could aspire for.

On hand to welcome guests for the well-attended affair were the writer’s sons Jaime Ismael and Luis David, together with their supportive wives, Cindy Joice and Charmaine.

Also in attendance were Jaime’s siblings, renowned painter Jose Mari and Pilar Escaño, who came with her children MonMon and Ana Maria.

Fittingly, a dear friend and award-winning Cebuana writer, Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, wrote the book introduction which promises to be a very good read.