Edward Gorey was an American author and illustrator, known for his distinctive and whimsical style. Born on February 22, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, he created over 100 works, including books, plays, and animated films. His illustrations often featured Victorian and Edwardian themes, characterized by dark humor and a sense of the macabre. Gorey gained widespread recognition for his book The Gashlycrumb Tinies, which presents an alphabet of children meeting unfortunate fates. His unique artistic approach has influenced various fields, including graphic novels and animation, and he remains a celebrated figure in the world of illustration and literature.