Cicely.Mary Barker author page

Cicely Mary Barker biography

Cicely Mary Barker was a British illustrator and author, best known for her series of books featuring flower fairies. Born in Croydon, Surrey, she developed an early interest in drawing and painting, encouraged by her family. Barker began her professional career by selling illustrations and greeting cards, and her work was first published when she was still a teenager.

Barker’s most recognised contribution to children’s literature is the Flower Fairies series, which began with the publication of Flower Fairies of the Spring in 1923 by Blackie & Son. Each book in the series pairs detailed botanical illustrations with poems, depicting fairies associated with different flowers and plants. Her illustrations are noted for their botanical accuracy and delicate style, reflecting her careful observation of nature and her use of local children as models for the fairies.

In addition to the Flower Fairies books, Barker illustrated a range of other works, including religious texts and collections of verse. She was a member of the Croydon Art Society and contributed to exhibitions and local artistic activities throughout her career.

Barker’s work has remained in print for decades, and her illustrations continue to be reproduced in various formats. The original Flower Fairies of the Spring was published in 1923.