In March 2014, Cooke was reported to be studying for an MBA at Cardiff University. Her autobiography, "The Breakaway", was published in the summer of 2014 to significant critical acclaim. "The Guardian"'s Richard Williams described it as "a compelling and salutary account of the price she paid for the victories from which many others will benefit". It was named The Sunday Times Sports Book of the Year 2014 and long listed for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year prize and shortlisted for the Cross Sports Book Award. Since retirement Cooke has repeatedly spoken out campaigning for gender equality in sport and stronger investigatory powers for the anti-doping bodies.