Final answer:
While it's hard to pinpoint the first successful picture book author and illustrator, John James Audubon, the Brothers Grimm, and Lewis Carroll stand out as key historical figures who contributed to the integration of illustrations with narrative, an essential element of today's picture books. William Morris's collaboration with illustrators for his fantasy fiction also demonstrates the evolving relationship between authorship and illustration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Identifying the very first person to become a successful picture book author and illustrator is challenging due to the evolution of children's literature over the centuries. However, one can consider figures like John James Audubon, who, though not primarily a children's author, created the Birds of America and is thought of as a forefather to the environmental and conservation movements. His works included detailed illustrations, aligning him with the idea of combining narrative and imagery, traits of modern picture book creators.
The Brothers Grimm may also be considered early influencers in the field through their collection and publication of German folk tales, which included illustrations in subsequent editions. While not strictly picture books as we understand them today, their work contributed significantly to the genre of illustrated children's literature. Another figure who played an important role in this evolution is Lewis Carroll, with his famed works like Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, which were paired with illustrations by artists such as John Tenniel, forging a path for illustrated books that appealed to young audiences.
William Morris in his work The Well at the World's End had illustrations by a partner, showcasing an integrated approach to text and illustration. During the Victorian age, moralistic tales for children were supplemented by illustrated books that aimed to entertain as well as educate, setting the groundwork for modern picture books.