Book Review of Be Strong: The Rise of Beloved Public Art Sculptor, Nancy Schon
The Children’s Book Review
Be Strong: The Rise of Beloved Public Art Sculptor, Nancy Schon
Written by Darcy Pattison
Illustrated by Rich Davis
Ages: 6+ | 34 Pages
Publisher: Mims House (2024) | ISBN-13: 978-1629442365
What to Expect: Inspirational, Biographical, Artistic, and Perseverance
In this inspiring picture book biography, author Darcy Pattison chronicles the journey of Nancy Schön, the renowned sculptor whose public art installations have become beloved landmarks across America. The heart of the story focuses on Schön’s most famous work: the bronze duck family sculptures in Boston’s Public Garden, inspired by Robert McCloskey’s classic Make Way for Ducklings. This enjoyable biography succeeds on multiple levels: as an artist’s story, an inspiration for perseverance, and a celebration of public art that brings communities together.
Beginning with a charming anecdote about young Nancy Quint winning a Halloween sculpting contest, the narrative plants the seed for a remarkable artistic career of creating accessible, touchable art with which children can physically interact. While delightfully underscored is Schön’s commitment to making art a participatory experience rather than a distant observation, Pattison doesn’t shy away from depicting Schön’s challenges while creating her now-iconic pieces. From technical difficulties like scale issues that required McCloskey’s input, the text portrays the struggles of bringing art to life on a grand scale. The words “Be Strong,” found both in the title and throughout the text, operate as a mantra—a simple note reading “Be Strong” that was gifted to Nancy by a fellow artist carries her through the difficulties. This theme of perseverance resonates throughout the narrative, making it particularly relevant for young readers facing their own challenges.
Effortlessly woven in and adding authenticity to the narrative are direct quotes from Schön herself. In the back matter, photographs of the artist at work and a comprehensive list of her public installations can be found, enhancing the educational value and providing additional context and resources for further exploration. For the final touch, Rich Davis’s illustrations delightfully capture the essence of Schön’s sculptural work, mirroring the three-dimensional quality of bronze sculptures while maintaining a warm, accessible feel that perfectly complements the story.
This thoughtfully crafted biography will likely resonate with young artists, makers, and dreamers, showing them that with persistence and courage, they, too, can overcome obstacles to create something meaningful and lasting. For educators and parents, Be Strong offers valuable opportunities to discuss artistic processes, problem-solving, and the importance of resilience—the book’s lovely illustrations, engaging narrative, and inspiring message make it a delightful and enriching read for all.
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About the Author
Children’s book author and indie publisher Darcy Pattison writes award-winning fiction and non-fiction books for children.
Her works have received starred PW, Kirkus, and BCCB reviews. Awards include the Irma Black Honor award, five NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books, Eureka! Nonfiction Honor book, two Junior Library Guild selections, two NCTE Notable Children’s Book in Language Arts, and a 2021 Notable Social Studies Trade Books. She’s the 2007 recipient of the Arkansas Governor’s Arts Award for Individual Artist for her work in children’s literature.
Pattison grew up in the mountains of New Mexico, where she helped her brothers catch spiders and insects for their collection, tried to corral horny toads, side-stepped rattlesnakes, and climbed the Continental Divide. She loves to write about wildlife, science fiction, and the kittens of KittyTube.
For more information, visit darcypattison.com.
For more on Darcy Pattison’s books, visit mimshousebooks.com.
