Art Cure by Daisy Fancourt Review

 Title: Art Cure: The Science of How The Arts Save Lives

Author: Daisy Fancourt

Age Group: Adult

Genre: Nonfiction/Science

Series: Standalone

Star Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

I received an advanced copy of this book through the publisher, Celadon Books, and Netgalley. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity!

Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the arts. In elementary school, we went to plays, musicals, ballets and museums, and ever since, I’ve tried to participate in the arts. All through high school, I took music classes and art classes. I was extremely interested in this book, and when I was approved for the galley, I started it right away. In seven meaty chapters, complete with well backed up footnotes, Fancourt presents her case: that the arts are not only important, but vital to human health. I’ve recently made one of 2026 reading goals to branch out into more nonfiction, and I’m so, so happy I began with Art Cure! One of my favorite books of the year, and maybe ever!

Daisy Fancourt has dedicated her life to the science of the arts, even though such things have been regulated to the back burner. Taken out of schools, nursing homes, and even hospitals, she makes her case for the benefits of the arts for everyone in this book. Touting evidence from many, many well-researched sources, she interviews individuals affected by the arts, such as a magician with cerebral palsy improving hand function over time and a woman who blooms through music to deal with grief and thrives later in life. This book was warm and inviting and fresh; I really enjoyed Daisy Fancourt’s voice, as entertaining as it was informative. This book was so enlightening, and I truly believe that everyone, no matter what, should have access to the arts, for the betterment of themselves and the human race. This book was essential reading, and I’m so happy and glad I read it! A true triumph of the human spirit! The bottom line: Rich with detail and fully researched, I loved Art Cure! Truly, one of the best books I’ve ever read!