The Sky Painter - by Anna Hullet & Diane Hullet (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

When a child loses someone dear to them, they search for a way to understand what happens to that relationship after the person's death. In The Sky Painter, a young girl named Bea treasures quiet mornings with her grandmother and the colorful paintings they make together. When her grandmother becomes seriously ill, Bea learns to navigate love and loss with the support of family, friends, and the reassurance of signs from beyond. This warm, accessible story helps children make sense of grief and loss, and gives them a way to feel secure that love and connection never die.

Review Quotes

"This accessible and insightful book offers children a comforting way to understand after-death communication, honoring both the love and the grief. With warmth and clarity, The Sky Painter reassures young readers that connection doesn't need to end when someone we love dies. The story creates space for feelings and curiosity, meeting children exactly where they are. It's a valuable resource for families seeking meaning and continuity after loss."

-Sarah Kerr, PhD, founder of The Centre for Sacred Deathcare

"Anna and Diane Hullet have written a beautiful and genuine story of family love, loss, and grief. They weave the experience of continuing bonds beyond death into the story, which is unique in children's end-of-life literature. The illustrations are pieces of art unto themselves. This will likely become a classic for many of us and a perfect gift to share with others."

-Jan Booth, MA, RN, end-of-life nurse and educator

"A child's first experience with death can shape how they will view dying and death for the rest of their life. The Sky Painter gives guidance for supporting children in relationship to end-of-life experiences through a tender, relatable story. We don't even have to be children to use the guidance found here!"

-Barbara Karnes, RN, author of Gone From My Sight: The Dying Experience

"In a world where the topic of death is often avoided, The Sky Painter approaches the subject with honesty and warmth. Through the eyes of a child named Bea, we are gently reminded that signs of love are often all around us. We just need to be open to seeing them."

-Diane Button, doula and author of What Matters Most, Dear Death and The Letter Box