Author(s): Robyn Te Paiho

Grief Books | NZ Picture Books

A little caterpillar is devastated when she loses her special friend. To keep her memories of him close and to protect herself she makes herself a “Sad House”. But the sun is ever-present… watching and waiting, shielding her, protecting her and warming her sad house with its constant love and smile. In 2018 both Robyn’s husband and her father died. This illustrated story describes the way she processed her loss. Her hope is that these words and illustrations will help readers embrace the love and comfort of the sun, and also take all the time they need on their own unique grief journey. Robyn’s father was an Anglican priest and artist. He passed on these taonga (treasures) of spirituality and creativity to her and her siblings. He was also a great storyteller and lover of picture books. Robyn’s husband loved her art and continually encouraged her to express her creativity. For these reasons it has been important for Robyn to tell her story using art as well as words.