Remembering Bruce Degen: The Illustrator Behind “The Magic School Bus”
Bruce Degen, the talented illustrator behind the beloved “The Magic School Bus” children’s book series, passed away on Thursday at his residence in Newtown, Connecticut. He was 79 years old. The cause of death was pancreatic cancer, as reported by his family.
At the heart of the series is Ms. Frizzle, an eccentric and adventurous science teacher who inspires her elementary school students to explore the wonders of biology, chemistry, and physics through exciting adventures. With her iconic yellow school bus, Ms. Frizzle takes her class on unforgettable journeys that range from soaring into the clouds to diving into raindrops, allowing them to experience the intricacies of their local water treatment system. On other thrilling occasions, she drives the bus through the human small intestine or across the fiery surface of the sun.
The educational aspect of these adventures was expertly crafted by Joanna Cole, a renowned children’s book author. She was responsible for writing the engaging texts that accompanied Degen’s illustrations, inventing imaginative plots that placed Ms. Frizzle’s students in the midst of hurricanes or exploring the inner workings of a classmate’s nose. Cole famously imbued Ms. Frizzle with memorable catchphrases, including the inspirational mantra: “Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!”
Bruce Degen, whose last name is pronounced like the Major Deegan Expressway, brought the visual landscape of the series to life with his distinctive style. He combined the clear lines of pen and ink with the whimsical softness of watercolor, creating a vibrant and inviting world. His portrayal of Ms. Frizzle featured her signature wild red hair, which, while frizzy and exuberant, was predominantly styled in a neat bun, perfectly capturing her spirited personality.
Mr. Degen collaborated closely with Joanna Cole, who penned the text for the “Magic School Bus” series, forming a dynamic duo that captivated the hearts and minds of young readers everywhere.
