Phoebe Gilman was a Canadian-American children's book author and illustrator. She was known for her books that featured strong lead female characters. One of her most renowned works, Something from Nothing, adapted from an old Yiddish tale, won the prestigious 1993 Ruth Schwartz Award for best children's book and was later adapted for television.

Born in The Bronx, New York, Phoebe spent her early years there before living in Europe and Israel. She eventually settled in Canada in 1972. Her love for storytelling and drawing was evident from a young age, influenced by her mother who was an avid reader. She pursued her passion for art at The High School of Art and Design.