Monika Finsterbusch was born in Berlin in 1954 and studied fashion design in Hamburg. After her studies, she worked as a fashion designer for over 20 years before opening a small studio in Munich. In the late 1990s, she transitioned to the toy industry. "After many years of designing new collections for adults, I was looking for a new perspective, something 'playful'!" says Monika Finsterbusch. She realized her long-held wish and designed unusual, characterful stuffed animals that inspired her to create fun stories for children. For example, the Moonshine Gang from Sigikid features heroes like Salto Rico and Ralley Jack. Encouraged by this success, she published her first children's book in 2001 with Coppenrath Verlag. It was titled "Olli and Fips." Alongside the book, the two funny characters were also available as plush figures. In 2004, she wrote "Princess Lillifee." "A little fairy doll, my enjoyment of cheeky, loving beings and animals, combined with my passion for colors, patterns, and fabrics, inspired me to create Princess Lillifee," says Monika Finsterbusch. Since then, numerous stories have been published that reflect the wishes and thoughts of little girls: they seek friendship and love nature and animals. The charm of Princess Lillifee lies in the blending of fable, fairy tale, and reality. "In my creative work, I am primarily guided by my observation and intuition. When I watch little girls, I sense what they like and enjoy," says author and illustrator Monika Finsterbusch, who is still full of ideas for more stories.