Heartwarming Children's Picture Book, Set in Nature, Shares a Positive Message about Friendship, Loss and Grief, Opening Discussion for Both Children and Adults

LOS ANGELES, March 21, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- During the last decade, author Daryl McCullough faced his mother's battle fighting cancer. After her death, McCullough cleaned out his childhood desk and found a draft of this story, which was written as a junior high school assignment when he was dealing with the loss of a dear family member. His mother had kept this manuscript for more than 40 years and, at her weakest moment, left it for him to find. A metaphorical tale set in nature about friendship and coping with loss, the story has new resonance and purpose today. With some rewriting along with inspiring illustrations by his talented aunt Maryanne Smith, they capture the essence and beauty of nature while providing some insight into the mysteries of life, change and death in "The Story of Tree and Cloud."

The book explores topics of friendship, coexistence, death and grief through the eyes of an ages-old oak tree named Folie, who lives on the top of a golden California coastal hill. Folie demonstrates valuable lessons of true friendship, nurturing, self-care and compassion. Throughout the seasons of her life, Folie sees and experiences many fascinating things, but she also experiences loss and the resulting grief. Soon, she comes to understand that her beloved friend's spirit lives on after death, ultimately finding comfort with this newfound knowledge.

"The Story of Tree and Cloud" emphasizes that losing a friend or loved one is not the end of that relationship. The circle of life – whether among humans or in nature – can be bittersweet and beautiful, although it is sometimes hard to grasp. In honor of his mother, McCullough shares this heartfelt story to inspire personal reflection and conversation about life, change and death amongst readers, especially during these times of uncertainty.

This book can be a welcome addition to personal collections and libraries, where it is said there is a dearth of content on this subject matter that is easily accessible to children.

"As a mom, I really love books that help kids learn to understand their feelings and emotions. This sweet book about two best friends really touched our hearts, and I'm sure it will resonate with any family dealing with loss or change."—Rachel Bilson, Actress, star of Hart of Dixie and The O.C.

"With playfulness and warmth, Daryl McCullough weaves a story of love, loss, and everlasting spiritual connection. The compassionate story and inspiring illustrations help provide both comfort and an understanding of death to a grieving child, or for that matter, to anyone who may be searching for meaning during a time of loss." —Linda Palius MS, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

"We lost a cherished pet last year and this comforting book really helped our family cope. Bravo to the story and beautiful art. We see our beloved Jip in the house, on the trails, in the clouds quite often now, and it makes us smile."—Ed Harris, Award-winning actor of screen and stage

"This gentle story of Folie and her world of sweetness taught me what I wished I learnt in school, and I'm not talking about condensation. Daryl McCullough's tender words overflowed my heart with feelings of love and hope and warmth. It gifted me a new perspective on soulmates, kindness, our universe, our earth, and a sort of radical acceptance of the cycle of life and death. It was a comforting, beautiful journey for all ages. I will read this to my future children."—Charlotte Lawrence, Musician and artist

"The Story of Tree and Cloud"
By Daryl McCullough
ISBN: 9781665711418 (softcover); 9781665711401 (hardcover); 9781665711425 (electronic)
Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Archway Publishing

About the author and illustrator
Daryl McCullough is a professional writer and marketing communications executive who loves creative expression. He received his bachelor's degree at Albright College and his master's at University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communications. McCullough is the former CEO and now Global Chair of Citizen Relations, a global brand marketing firm. He lives in the Los Angeles area with his husband George and their family dog Ferdinand. "The Story of Tree and Cloud" was written in memory of his mother and is his first published book. To learn more, please visit http://www.thestoryoftreeandcloud.com.

Maryanne Smith, the illustrator, is a 78-year-old artist with tremendous talent. She has designed and painted many high-end wallpaper designs for an elite wallpaper company. Although she has created and sold many works of art, "The Story of Tree and Cloud" is her first book. She is from York County, PA.

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