Hello
I am an Autistic-ADHD Author and Illustrator from Sydney, Australia. Drawing and writing have always been my way of processing and celebrating the beauty of life. I have a Bachelor of Design (Hons) from UTS and a Masters of Teaching from Sydney University.
I have contributed to publications such as the Guardian and Sydney Morning Herald. My experiences as a teacher and a mother to a daughter with complex disability have inspired me to create stories that help all children feel seen and understood.
Who is Holly Karten
Born in Tasmania, the Granddaughter of Estonian Refugees, I am the youngest of four children raised by a loving, smart and creative single-mother. Always drawn to the world of plants and fairies my fondest childhood memory is of when my mother let us build a pond in our living room.
As an adult, I studied Fashion and Textile Design before following my passion for child-development into becoming a Steiner-Qualified Primary School Teacher. I loved the attention to nature, truth and beauty and the sacred reverence of childhood. When my first daughter was born with complex disabilities I began the rich, subtle and rewarding exploration of learning through her view of the world.
I have become myself in this space.
and now understand the importance of creating stories that help all children to feel seen and celebrated for exactly who they are.
To enquire about my stories and illustrations please send me an email.
For School Visits, please see the appropriate section of the website above to view my offerings.
Can't see what you need? Simply send me an email and let's come up with something together.
