May Gibbs

Cecilia May Gibbs (17 January 1877 - 27 November 1969), publishing under the name May Gibbs, was an English-born Australian children's author, illustrator and cartoonist and remains one of Australia’s best loved children’s book creators.

May’s deep love of the Australian bush was portrayed in her work, engendering in children her own love of nature. The Gumnut Babies, May’s classic book about Australian bush fairies, was first published in 1916 and was followed by many other Gumnut stories including her famous creations Snugglepot & Cuddlepie.

When she died, May Gibbs bequeathed her works to the Northcott Society and The Cerebal Palsy Alliance. Through her foresight, May Gibbs has helped thousands of Australian children with disabilities and their families.