Deep in the forest stands a very tall tree. In stunning silk paintings, the author-artist shows how a variety of forest animals and birds find comfort around the tree through the seasons. As night falls, the animals can be heard calling good night to each other from the boughs of the tree that gives them comfort.

Holly Carr's profile page

HOLLY CARR is a visual artist, creator, designer, and director who has gained national acclaim for her unique style of silk painting. She has participated in many group and solo shows and continues to exhibit nationally. In recent years, Holly has branched out into performance art, where she paints large works live on stage. Holly’s work can be found in numerous private and public collections. Holly and her artist husband, Alan Bateman, reside in their 200-year-old farmhouse and studio in the Annapolis Valley near Canning, Nova Scotia.

“Holly Carr’s art has a vigour and vitality, which is attractive to all, especially children. The story of the Comfort Tree carries an important message and has the potential to improve mental health awareness through experiences with nature. The trees, when walking in nature, give off chemicals that make you feel better. In a sense your cells rejoice.”

Robert Bateman, Canadian Wildlife Artist

“Holly Carr is a shining example of the magic that happens when talent and passion merge. Through her latest book, The Comfort Tree, she has given all of us a beautiful gift through her impactful approach to wellness.”

Karen Theriault, CEO , Valley Regional Hospital Foundation

The Comfort Tree is a beautiful story that invites children of all ages into the magic and healing power of nature. In a world that can often feel overwhelming and chaotic, helping our children learn ways of comforting and calming themselves is vital for building a strong sense of self and in the belief that we can count on and trust in others. The Comfort Tree is a vibrant and engaging read that shows just how important connection is to us all.

Erica McGill, Director, Health, Counselling & Accessible Learning Acadia University

"A number of forest animals find comfort around a magnificent oak tree that stands deep in the forest. Throughout the four seasons, each animal (e.g. Raven, Fox, Squirrel, Bear, Blue Jay) finds a special kind of solace and comfort amidst the tall tree. In the later part of the book, the animals can be heard calling good night to each other from the boughs of the tree, giving each other company and comfort. Holly Carr’s text is spare and succinct, naming each of the animals’ actions. Her staggering silk paintings with vivid jewel-like colours and patterns gloriously fill each spread. The Comfort Tree is a rich contribution to books on positive mental health; a beautifully told story centred on healing and community. The story acknowledges that this picture book was created from the spirit of “The Portapique Story Trails Project,” and was written for the community of Portapique, Nova Scotia.”

Larry Swartz, Educational Consultant

Holly Carr’s stunning silk painted illustrations make this picture book one you will wish to sit with often and lends itsself to reflection. A sense of calm is relayed as you read the text, the perfectly chosen words meant to lull and comfort. With so much attention to visual details on every page, Holly has a way of portraying animals that connects the reader to what must certainly be their inner feelings.

Using the animals and their relationship to the tree, Holly Carr illustrates how comfort and restoration of mental health can be found in nature and how each animals find comfort in different ways Following the seasons the story unfolds and the reader is carried along through the changing beauty of an old oak tree. Atop the richly coloured Fall leaves Raven finds comfort in the view. Fox, squirrel and blue jays find comfort as well. In Winter Lynx finds comfort in the branches. Raven, rabbit and deer find comfort as well. In Spring bear finds comfort scratching an itchy back on the tree’s bark. Bees and owl find comfort there too. In Summer “the forest animals gather around the tree. They frolic until it is time for bed.”

Using the animals and their relationship to the tree, Holly Carr illustrates how comfort and restoration of mental health can be found in nature and how each animals find comfort in different ways.

The story was written as an act of love and compassion for the community of Portapique, Nova Scotia.

Atlantic Book Reviews

“This story was written as an act of love and compassion for the community of Portapique, Nova Scotia. Sometimes you just have to hold an idea loosely enough so that its own voice can emerge. And sometimes you just need to follow the energy and do the next right thing. This project began with the bones of another story, a story that somewhere along the way, gave birth to the magical tale of The Comfort Tree. The spirit of this tale, and indeed the Portapique Story Trails Project that hosts this sweet narrative, is one of community, comfort, love, and nature. All are essential ingredients for our mental health and well-being.

“Healing is a journey that requires collective effort. The Comfort Tree is the product of a community’s collective effort, one that is grounded in love and deep compassion. By standing together, I believe we can create a brighter, more resilient future for all.”

- Karn Nichols, Executive Director, Canadian Mental Health Association, Nova Scotia Division