Cicely Mary Barker was an English illustrator and poet, best known for her enchanting illustrations of flower fairies. Born on June 28, 1895, in Croydon, England, she began drawing at a young age and developed a unique style that combined natural elements with whimsical characters. Her first book, "Flower Fairies of the Spring," was published in 1923 and quickly gained popularity. Barker's work often featured detailed depictions of flowers alongside fairy figures, capturing the beauty of nature. Over her lifetime, she created numerous books and illustrations, leaving a lasting legacy in children's literature and art. She passed away on February 16, 1973.