Dec 13, 2023

Australia’s favourite kid’s author, illustrator, fairy godmother Shirley Barber dies at 88

Untitled design - 2023-12-13T100517.095
Shirley Barber's books and merchandise have been a popular part of childhood for many Aussies. [Source: The Advertiser]

Australia’s beloved children’s author, illustrator and fairy lover Shirley Barber has died aged 88. 

In a statement by her publisher Brolly Books, it was confirmed the author of early reading staples such as Rainbow Magic and The Tooth Fairy died “peacefully in her sleep” on Tuesday morning. 

A third-generation artist and avid writer since her childhood, Ms Barber grew up in the Channel Islands before moving to Australia in the 1960s where she developed a love of nature and painting.

She received her first publishing deal with Memory Press in the late 1980s with her picture book Martha B. Rabbit: The Fairies’ Cook but publishers were unsure how it would be received by the public. 

Shirley barber
Two of Ms Barber’s popular children’s books. [Source: Amazon]

“The publishers need not have worried,” Brolly Books wrote in their statement. 

During her career, Ms Barber authored and illustrated more than 30 original picture books, each in a distinct style of rich detail, beautiful animated characters, and strong visual scenescapes. 

Her books, diaries and calendars have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide and have since inspired spin-off merchandise including jigsaws, clothing and stickers.

A pioneer of children’s fantasy stories, Ms Barber encountered criticism for venturing into this genre and creating works aimed at children but remained committed to creating a beautiful retreat for children through her stories and artwork. 

“In each of Shirley’s children’s books there are gentle messages of kindness, caring, friendship, and peace, never overstated but simply conveyed by the characters in her stories and their actions.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

110-year-old receives personalised baked bean cans for milestone birthday

Heinz Australia has produced a personalised limited run of baked beans for Whiddon Grafton resident – and keen baked bean enthusiast – Kenneth Weeks for his 110th birthday. Read More

The benefits of making a ‘When I die file’

A new book aims to dispel the idea we have no control over what happens to us at the end of our lives. Read More

The Most Common Regret People Have At End Of Their Lives (And How To Avoid It)

Sometimes you come across a video that literally changes your outlook on life. That’s what just happened to me. It’s a video created by Prince Ea titled “Everybody Dies, But Not Everybody Lives”. Watch the video below to find out what I mean: We all need to follow our dreams. When we’re lying on our... Read More
Advertisement