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Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives
A groundbreaking exposé showing how the arts—alongside diet, sleep, exercise and nature—are the forgotten fifth pillar of health
From cradle to grave, engaging in the arts has remarkable effects on our health and well-being. Music supports the architectural development of children’s brains. Artistic hobbies help our brains to stay resilient against dementia. Dance and magic tricks build new neural pathways for people with brain injuries. Arts and music act just like drugs to decrease depression, stress, and pain, reducing our dependence on medication. Going to live music events, museums, exhibitions, and the theater decreases our risk of future loneliness and frailty. Engaging in the arts improves the functioning of every major organ system in the body, even helping us to live longer.
This isn’t sensationalism, it’s the results of decades of studies gathering data from neuroimaging, molecular biomarkers, wearable sensors, cognitive assessments, and electronic health records. From professor Daisy Fancourt, an award-winning scientist and science communicator and director of the World Health Organization’s Collaborating Centre for Arts and Health, this book will fundamentally change the way you value and engage with the arts in your daily life and give you the tools to optimize how, when, and what arts you engage in to achieve your health goals. The arts are not a luxury in our lives. They are essential.
From cradle to grave, engaging in the arts has remarkable effects on our health and well-being. Music supports the architectural development of children’s brains. Artistic hobbies help our brains to stay resilient against dementia. Dance and magic tricks build new neural pathways for people with brain injuries. Arts and music act just like drugs to decrease depression, stress, and pain, reducing our dependence on medication. Going to live music events, museums, exhibitions, and the theater decreases our risk of future loneliness and frailty. Engaging in the arts improves the functioning of every major organ system in the body, even helping us to live longer.
This isn’t sensationalism, it’s the results of decades of studies gathering data from neuroimaging, molecular biomarkers, wearable sensors, cognitive assessments, and electronic health records. From professor Daisy Fancourt, an award-winning scientist and science communicator and director of the World Health Organization’s Collaborating Centre for Arts and Health, this book will fundamentally change the way you value and engage with the arts in your daily life and give you the tools to optimize how, when, and what arts you engage in to achieve your health goals. The arts are not a luxury in our lives. They are essential.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
159 people are currently reading
2767 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 17, 2026
This was a very fascinating read about the impact arts has on our lives to lead a healthier and happier existence. Daisy Fancourt dives into scientific research behind the arts as a 5th pillar of health alongside diet, exercise, sleep, and nature. The arts can be consumed in a variety of ways including music, dance, drawing, painting, poetry, museums, cooking, theater, etc. From the womb to the grave, the arts play an essential role in decreasing our depression, stress, pain, and dependence on drugs. Engaging in the arts improves functioning of every major organ system — this isn’t a trend, it’s science gathered from neuroimaging, molecular biomarkers, wearable sensors, cognitive assessments, and electronic health records. I’ve always valued the arts, and it was incredibly fascinating to learn about the “why” of the arts’ importance.
February 25, 2026
This book was fine but it rlly cemented my belief that a lot of nonfiction books these days could just be long-form essays. I got the point from the first chapter and didn’t necessarily learn anything new after that. Also, the substance misuse section was a little too far-fetched
February 15, 2026
More academic than readable.
My star awarding system is
5-will read again with pleasure. Rare
4-very good read, very good effort
3- ok read, ok effort
2- author wrote a book and I read it
1- wasted my time, lazy effort
If I don’t leave a star review it means I don’t feel qualified to do so. I also didn’t star for a few years because it felt unfair, but in the absence of anything better I began starring again.
My star awarding system is
5-will read again with pleasure. Rare
4-very good read, very good effort
3- ok read, ok effort
2- author wrote a book and I read it
1- wasted my time, lazy effort
If I don’t leave a star review it means I don’t feel qualified to do so. I also didn’t star for a few years because it felt unfair, but in the absence of anything better I began starring again.
November 19, 2025
This was a very fascinating book about how the arts are healing to us as humans. It was packed with information like scientific data, real examples of how people used art to heal, and it really got my creative juices flowing. My love of being crafty, painting, and creating makes more sense now and this book is immensely relatable for me. I am so motivated now to continue using the arts as a form of self care and healing for myself.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 28, 2026
Art is an often overlooked and under appreciated part of our lives, but has an astronomical effect on our health and wellbeing. A fantastically thorough examination of all the ways that art has been proven to benefit our mental and physical health, in more ways than one could even imagine.
March 9, 2026
Really enjoyed this, impressed at how she managed to weave in behaviour change as well. Yes, there is a bit of repetition but it’s a fundamental principle of learning and it didn’t bother me. Obviously strongly biased as this is a big area of interest for me.
March 14, 2026
The author provides some remarkable studies to support the use of art as medicine. As an art therapist, this is not news but the extent of evidence was surprising even to me.
February 4, 2026
Love how this books break down the transformative power, even in small doses, art can have in our lives. A fun and informative read for art lovers everywhere.
March 7, 2026
When I turned the last page of this book I didn’t know whether to cry or to cheer. This is a groundbreaking case for why the arts matter, backed up by a lifetime of research (when there’s 80+ pages of notes at the end, you KNOW you’re getting straight facts). Although this definitely skews much less narrative and more ‘hard science’ than I typically like in non-fiction, my jaw was constantly on the floor reading some of the insights in here and I feel extremely well-equipped to argue with anyone who tries to tell me the arts are unimportant. I’m so glad the Women’s Prize is giving this the platform it deserves.
February 9, 2026
This #book got to me. Nonfiction books packed with research rarely generate an emotional response in me. Yet, I found myself tearing up while reading about a young boy who learned magic tricks as part of his therapy. His determination and recovery were inspiring, but the fact that he went on to teach other children with similar challenges and eventually earned a place in the magician community through genuine skill, not sympathy, was profoundly moving. #tearsofjoy
That story crystallizes Fancourt's central thesis: art is not some random activity. It’s a vital part of human life unlocks healing, happiness, and community. The book compiles decades of rigorous research proving what we intuitively know: engaging with art, whether through music, writing, dance, painting, or any form of creativity, directly impacts our physical and mental wellbeing.
Fancourt makes a data-driven case that should silence anyone who views art as frivolous. The compelling research is there and it validates what I’ve long believed while writing about creativity and play: these aren't indulgences. They're requirements for a healthy and good life.
Why This Matters Now
Here's where I get fired up: we've systematically devalued the arts in our education system. We've cut arts programs in favor of metrics and measurable economic returns. And I believe this has real consequences for our society—not just for individuals, but for the culture we're building.
When we stop teaching kids to create and express themselves, we lose something fundamental. Empathy erodes. We become purely transactional. We optimize for output instead of meaning. And frankly, we've paid the price. The United States has been the cultural (or at least pop cultural) capital of the world in film, music, and innovation (I cannot say literature, I know it too well). That leadership came from valuing creativity.
The Bigger Picture
Music god Nick Cave said something recently that I think about constantly: we can't rush the creative process to get to the product. The act of creating is where the healing happens. Where we process. Where we connect with ourselves and others.
Whether it's singing, dancing, writing, painting, knitting, or playing games—these aren't downtime activities. They're medicine. And unlike a pill, they come with only positive side effects: joy, connection, meaning, and yes, better health outcomes.
Fancourt's book is a well-researched reminder that the arts deserve a seat at the table alongside diet, sleep, exercise, and nature. They are not a nice-to-have component, they are essential.
I genuinely hope this book reaches policymakers and educators. Because we need to bring the arts back into our schools, back into our workplaces, back into how we spend our time. Not instead of other “important” things, but alongside everything else we do.
The Recommendation
Read this book, and even if you are not a traditionally creative person, consider the most appealing way to express yourself. Don't focus on outcomes. Don't worry that you won't be very good at it. Just get out there and regularly create something new. Don't worry about the commercial side of it. Do it for fun.
Your community, your brain, and your heart will thank you.
That story crystallizes Fancourt's central thesis: art is not some random activity. It’s a vital part of human life unlocks healing, happiness, and community. The book compiles decades of rigorous research proving what we intuitively know: engaging with art, whether through music, writing, dance, painting, or any form of creativity, directly impacts our physical and mental wellbeing.
Fancourt makes a data-driven case that should silence anyone who views art as frivolous. The compelling research is there and it validates what I’ve long believed while writing about creativity and play: these aren't indulgences. They're requirements for a healthy and good life.
Why This Matters Now
Here's where I get fired up: we've systematically devalued the arts in our education system. We've cut arts programs in favor of metrics and measurable economic returns. And I believe this has real consequences for our society—not just for individuals, but for the culture we're building.
When we stop teaching kids to create and express themselves, we lose something fundamental. Empathy erodes. We become purely transactional. We optimize for output instead of meaning. And frankly, we've paid the price. The United States has been the cultural (or at least pop cultural) capital of the world in film, music, and innovation (I cannot say literature, I know it too well). That leadership came from valuing creativity.
The Bigger Picture
Music god Nick Cave said something recently that I think about constantly: we can't rush the creative process to get to the product. The act of creating is where the healing happens. Where we process. Where we connect with ourselves and others.
Whether it's singing, dancing, writing, painting, knitting, or playing games—these aren't downtime activities. They're medicine. And unlike a pill, they come with only positive side effects: joy, connection, meaning, and yes, better health outcomes.
Fancourt's book is a well-researched reminder that the arts deserve a seat at the table alongside diet, sleep, exercise, and nature. They are not a nice-to-have component, they are essential.
I genuinely hope this book reaches policymakers and educators. Because we need to bring the arts back into our schools, back into our workplaces, back into how we spend our time. Not instead of other “important” things, but alongside everything else we do.
The Recommendation
Read this book, and even if you are not a traditionally creative person, consider the most appealing way to express yourself. Don't focus on outcomes. Don't worry that you won't be very good at it. Just get out there and regularly create something new. Don't worry about the commercial side of it. Do it for fun.
Your community, your brain, and your heart will thank you.
February 3, 2026
I received a complimentary ARC copy of Art Cure The Science of How the Arts Save Lives by Daisy Fancourt from Net Galley and Celadon Books in order to read and give an honest review.
...Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone, regardless of their stage in life. It serves as an invaluable introduction to why creativity is a necessity, not a luxury, whether you are seeking healing or simply a sense of purpose....
I absolutely loved this book. Although it occasionally reads like an academic text, it remains remarkably accessible to the masses. As many of you know, I have always been a vocal advocate for the healing power of creativity. If you’ve followed my work at IgniteYourCreativity.ca or caught my posts for the “We Are the World BlogFest,” you know that much of my mission revolves around the intersection of art and wellness. For more on this, you can search the #WATWB tag right here on the site to find posts that echo the sentiments found in Art Cure.
Interestingly, one of my own posts from 2017: #Music and Memories: Helping #Dementia Patients Find #Joy was inspired by a video of a patient named Henry. It was a lovely "full circle" moment to see Henry featured as a key case study in this book.
Throughout the book, Fancourt expertly weaves together vivid real-life stories with the "why" behind them. She covers a diverse range of scenarios, including: How a stroke patient used art as a literal lifeline to regain function. The profound impact of music therapy on the recovery of sick infants and evidence that patients exposed to the arts require less pain medication and recover from surgery faster.
Fancourt doesn't just show us the "what" she provides the scientific scaffolding for why the arts are essential for our mental and physical health. She highlights our current societal shortcomings and challenges us to integrate art into our daily routines with the same discipline we apply to fitness and nutrition.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone, regardless of their stage in life. It serves as an invaluable introduction to why creativity is a necessity, not a luxury, whether you are seeking healing or simply a sense of purpose.
My only minor critique is he research compendium is quite lengthy taking up at least a third of the book. However, for those who love "geeking out" on data or need specific evidence for a family member’s care, it’s a goldmine of information.
...Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone, regardless of their stage in life. It serves as an invaluable introduction to why creativity is a necessity, not a luxury, whether you are seeking healing or simply a sense of purpose....
I absolutely loved this book. Although it occasionally reads like an academic text, it remains remarkably accessible to the masses. As many of you know, I have always been a vocal advocate for the healing power of creativity. If you’ve followed my work at IgniteYourCreativity.ca or caught my posts for the “We Are the World BlogFest,” you know that much of my mission revolves around the intersection of art and wellness. For more on this, you can search the #WATWB tag right here on the site to find posts that echo the sentiments found in Art Cure.
Interestingly, one of my own posts from 2017: #Music and Memories: Helping #Dementia Patients Find #Joy was inspired by a video of a patient named Henry. It was a lovely "full circle" moment to see Henry featured as a key case study in this book.
Throughout the book, Fancourt expertly weaves together vivid real-life stories with the "why" behind them. She covers a diverse range of scenarios, including: How a stroke patient used art as a literal lifeline to regain function. The profound impact of music therapy on the recovery of sick infants and evidence that patients exposed to the arts require less pain medication and recover from surgery faster.
Fancourt doesn't just show us the "what" she provides the scientific scaffolding for why the arts are essential for our mental and physical health. She highlights our current societal shortcomings and challenges us to integrate art into our daily routines with the same discipline we apply to fitness and nutrition.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone, regardless of their stage in life. It serves as an invaluable introduction to why creativity is a necessity, not a luxury, whether you are seeking healing or simply a sense of purpose.
My only minor critique is he research compendium is quite lengthy taking up at least a third of the book. However, for those who love "geeking out" on data or need specific evidence for a family member’s care, it’s a goldmine of information.
September 9, 2025
Nobody really has to convince me of the importance of the arts. Our family runs a free community arts center out of a rescued 125 year old church we bought in 2020 and stocked with donated art supplies, musical instruments, sewing machines, costumes, yarn, games, craft materials and more. Our whole family is involved with the arts from acting to songwriting to watercolor and poetry, and we know what it’s like to love the arts but not be able to afford the art experiences you want to take part in.
And still, this book left me much more convinced of the importance of art than I was to begin with.
Fancourt tells why the arts are so important –– not just for our enjoyment but truly for our mental and physical health. She uses true stories of people whose lives and health were saved by their introductions to art, along with countless studies and other real life examples. We learn about hospitals whose patients need less pain medication and recover from surgery faster when music and art are incorporated in their environments, children who are calmed before surgery by art experiences, and much more. She argues that rather than saying that art has countless benefits (which it does), we should be saying that not having access to art is linked to depression, illness, greater pain and even shorter lives.
The end has a prescription of sorts for how to include art in your regular practices the same way you prioritize exercise or good nutrition. Over a third of the book is references at the end, which I appreciate for scientific rigor but found a little frustrating because the book ended when I thought I was only 60% done. I’m not sure there’s any workaround for that but I was hoping for more inspiration on how to incorporate art in all different forms and all different ways into life. Even with all the art opportunities in my life, I find myself falling short of my recommended daily allowances, and I would have loved a huge creative menu of ideas to use for inspiration.
That said, this is an important book that every doctor, teacher, parent, politician and person should read. It really will inspire you to incorporate art into the lives of everyone you care about. Well recommended.
I read a digital ARC of this book via netgalley.
And still, this book left me much more convinced of the importance of art than I was to begin with.
Fancourt tells why the arts are so important –– not just for our enjoyment but truly for our mental and physical health. She uses true stories of people whose lives and health were saved by their introductions to art, along with countless studies and other real life examples. We learn about hospitals whose patients need less pain medication and recover from surgery faster when music and art are incorporated in their environments, children who are calmed before surgery by art experiences, and much more. She argues that rather than saying that art has countless benefits (which it does), we should be saying that not having access to art is linked to depression, illness, greater pain and even shorter lives.
The end has a prescription of sorts for how to include art in your regular practices the same way you prioritize exercise or good nutrition. Over a third of the book is references at the end, which I appreciate for scientific rigor but found a little frustrating because the book ended when I thought I was only 60% done. I’m not sure there’s any workaround for that but I was hoping for more inspiration on how to incorporate art in all different forms and all different ways into life. Even with all the art opportunities in my life, I find myself falling short of my recommended daily allowances, and I would have loved a huge creative menu of ideas to use for inspiration.
That said, this is an important book that every doctor, teacher, parent, politician and person should read. It really will inspire you to incorporate art into the lives of everyone you care about. Well recommended.
I read a digital ARC of this book via netgalley.
February 19, 2026
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!
https://literatureobsessed.blogspot.c...
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!
https://literatureobsessed.blogspot.c...
February 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — 4/5 stars
Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives by Daisy Fancourt offers a well-researched and compelling examination of how engagement with the arts can meaningfully influence human health and well-being. Although I do not typically gravitate toward nonfiction or self-help titles, I found this book both engaging and persuasive in its central argument: that the arts function as a vital, yet often overlooked, component of holistic health.
Fancourt draws on a wide range of interdisciplinary research spanning neuroscience, psychology, and public health to demonstrate the measurable effects of artistic engagement on mental, emotional, and physical outcomes. Through a combination of empirical studies and real-world examples, the book illustrates how creative practices can support cognitive development, emotional regulation, stress reduction, and long-term resilience across the lifespan. The integration of scientific evidence with accessible explanations makes the material approachable without sacrificing rigor.
At times, the density of the research can feel heavy, particularly for readers without a strong scientific background, and I would have appreciated more concrete guidance on how individuals might apply these findings in everyday life. Nevertheless, the overarching concept — that art is not merely recreational but has tangible, life-enhancing effects — is both convincing and thought-provoking.
Overall, Art Cure is an insightful and timely contribution to the growing body of literature on arts and health, and it left me with a renewed appreciation for the role of creativity in daily life. I received an ARC copy from Celadon Books in exchange for an honest review.
Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives by Daisy Fancourt offers a well-researched and compelling examination of how engagement with the arts can meaningfully influence human health and well-being. Although I do not typically gravitate toward nonfiction or self-help titles, I found this book both engaging and persuasive in its central argument: that the arts function as a vital, yet often overlooked, component of holistic health.
Fancourt draws on a wide range of interdisciplinary research spanning neuroscience, psychology, and public health to demonstrate the measurable effects of artistic engagement on mental, emotional, and physical outcomes. Through a combination of empirical studies and real-world examples, the book illustrates how creative practices can support cognitive development, emotional regulation, stress reduction, and long-term resilience across the lifespan. The integration of scientific evidence with accessible explanations makes the material approachable without sacrificing rigor.
At times, the density of the research can feel heavy, particularly for readers without a strong scientific background, and I would have appreciated more concrete guidance on how individuals might apply these findings in everyday life. Nevertheless, the overarching concept — that art is not merely recreational but has tangible, life-enhancing effects — is both convincing and thought-provoking.
Overall, Art Cure is an insightful and timely contribution to the growing body of literature on arts and health, and it left me with a renewed appreciation for the role of creativity in daily life. I received an ARC copy from Celadon Books in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Art Cure" is about how doing art can help a person's health. The author has personally researched how arts can impact our health, from studies to see if more frequent arts engagement leads to better health outcomes over the years to specific experiments done to see how calming music can help in hospitals and similar ideas. She also included experiments done by others that show the impact that viewing or doing various arts (reading, dancing, making or listening to music, visiting the theater, etc.) can have on health outcomes. She gave examples, from singing to a premature baby to help the baby stay calm and thrive to teaching magic tricks as a way to make physical therapy fun for kids.
The author summarized how the various studies were set up and the results but also usually gave an example of a specific person to show how the principle has worked out in someone's actual, real life. She didn't get deep into the science except to explain just how much we could really conclude from the various studies. She ended each chapter by suggesting various ways we could practically use the information in that chapter: how long do we do an activity, how frequently, and what sort of arts might have the desired effect. I had no trouble following the author's points and found the information both interesting and something that I could easily act upon. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting book.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The author summarized how the various studies were set up and the results but also usually gave an example of a specific person to show how the principle has worked out in someone's actual, real life. She didn't get deep into the science except to explain just how much we could really conclude from the various studies. She ended each chapter by suggesting various ways we could practically use the information in that chapter: how long do we do an activity, how frequently, and what sort of arts might have the desired effect. I had no trouble following the author's points and found the information both interesting and something that I could easily act upon. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting book.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
February 16, 2026
I really enjoyed this book's thesis and emphasis on how important 'the arts' are to our lives. And now we've got research that supports it's physio- AND psychological health. What's not to love??
In my opinion there are 2 things
1. The book really needed a better editor. After 5 chapters, the author had really made her point. I was bought in, converted! 8 chapters, even more. Did we really need more chapter after that, making the same point? I skipped almost a whole chapter because it was just Farncourt reading up a list of researches
2. This may seem unfair, but I feel like the economic disparages and access to the arts are just mentioned and not explored. The author is careful to make general statements about how the arts can benefit everyone. But when it comes to the behaviours as well who is consuming the arts, I found the book lacking. There are a lot of contributing factors to people's health, but one of the key is economic stability. If you have money, you tend to be healthier
And I feel like that part was underserved - even if it was mentioned.
I do think Daisy Fancourt is onto something! And I have already recommended her as a speaker at my company conference. And I will no doubt be increasing my art consumption.
After all, it may save my life!
In my opinion there are 2 things
1. The book really needed a better editor. After 5 chapters, the author had really made her point. I was bought in, converted! 8 chapters, even more. Did we really need more chapter after that, making the same point? I skipped almost a whole chapter because it was just Farncourt reading up a list of researches
2. This may seem unfair, but I feel like the economic disparages and access to the arts are just mentioned and not explored. The author is careful to make general statements about how the arts can benefit everyone. But when it comes to the behaviours as well who is consuming the arts, I found the book lacking. There are a lot of contributing factors to people's health, but one of the key is economic stability. If you have money, you tend to be healthier
And I feel like that part was underserved - even if it was mentioned.
I do think Daisy Fancourt is onto something! And I have already recommended her as a speaker at my company conference. And I will no doubt be increasing my art consumption.
After all, it may save my life!
February 23, 2026
After a few minutes of listening to “Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives”, I realized I actually knew Daisy Fancourt’s work already from papers and talks (my name memory is rubbish…). But here, gathered together in one cohesive and passionately told book, her ideas truly come alive. This is a beautifully balanced exploration of how creativity interlinks with health, wellbeing and sense of purpose.
Fancourt’s ability to blend solid, evidence-based research with genuinely human storytelling is remarkable. Listening to her narrate adds an extra layer of connection—her voice carries warmth, curiosity and a clear sense of mission. She makes complex science feel vivid and personal, transforming data into something hopeful and relevant.
What I loved most is how “Art Cure” celebrates all kind of art. Whether it is singing a tune, watching a play or sketching the act of mindfully engaging in something creative has a remarkable impact on physiological and psychological body function. The book is grounded and full of heart. I came away inspired and was so glad I listened and I hope it will receive the attention it deserves.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio, NetGalley and Daisy Fancourt for an advance listening copy of this book
Fancourt’s ability to blend solid, evidence-based research with genuinely human storytelling is remarkable. Listening to her narrate adds an extra layer of connection—her voice carries warmth, curiosity and a clear sense of mission. She makes complex science feel vivid and personal, transforming data into something hopeful and relevant.
What I loved most is how “Art Cure” celebrates all kind of art. Whether it is singing a tune, watching a play or sketching the act of mindfully engaging in something creative has a remarkable impact on physiological and psychological body function. The book is grounded and full of heart. I came away inspired and was so glad I listened and I hope it will receive the attention it deserves.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio, NetGalley and Daisy Fancourt for an advance listening copy of this book
February 6, 2026
First off, thank you Celadon books for this ARC of Art Cure! This is a fascinating book, though some of the cover information somewhat misleads about what the content truly addresses, and it's one of those rare books that you can literally open it to any page and find something engrossingly interesting that immediately hooks you. I hadn't intended to read it immediately when I first received it but after checking out random pages, I ended up just diving into it. It's not a self-help, how-to book, which is what I'd imagined it would be for whatever reason, but a thorough examination about how art affects every aspect of life and in turn your health, and all for the positive. It's a book that everyone who wants to understand the engaging world around us that in infused with art and how focusing on it will better us both physically and mentally, with a great many examples to support the claim. Fabulous!
February 21, 2026
What an annoying blurb from the publishers! The Art Cure isn't groundbreaking at all. Professionally I am familiar with a lot of the research that the author includes. She has been writing about it for almost a decade, as have others. A particularly good example - though more limited in art forms - Is Music as Medicine by Daniel Levitin.
But having got that off my chest, this is a really good book. Care and assistance is given to the non-scientist like me to guide us through a lot of recent medical discoveries as to the neurological mechanisms which means that a range of arts can be so beneficial in prevention, in wellness and in mitigating specific conditions like dementia and Parkinson's. professor Fancourt is a brilliant communicator, leavening the book with both case studies and her personal experiences. It convers a great range of research, health conditions and art forms.
Not groundbreaking but certainly a tour de force.
But having got that off my chest, this is a really good book. Care and assistance is given to the non-scientist like me to guide us through a lot of recent medical discoveries as to the neurological mechanisms which means that a range of arts can be so beneficial in prevention, in wellness and in mitigating specific conditions like dementia and Parkinson's. professor Fancourt is a brilliant communicator, leavening the book with both case studies and her personal experiences. It convers a great range of research, health conditions and art forms.
Not groundbreaking but certainly a tour de force.
March 19, 2026
I didn't realize this narrator was British. For me, it was a bit of a challenge to listen to this book. I love the British accent but I also was trying to learn and for me it was a struggle with this audiobook. . . So once again, I got a copy of this book in hardcover. This is a great book. I love art and if I could go back in time, I would follow my in initial dream of being an art teacher. I love how inspiring this book is related to art and healing. It is one, I would wish we would all read and study. As the author says, we are all artistic in some way whether we realize it or not. We just utilize different forms. When we do focus on our art, there is healing in it. I am a slow reader for this type of book as I take a lot of notes and annotate but for me, it is such a worthwhile read.
I initially got an audiobook of this book from NetGalley and then got my own hardcover copy to finish reading.
I initially got an audiobook of this book from NetGalley and then got my own hardcover copy to finish reading.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a fascinating and accessible book that is about the importance of arts in regards to health by a person who's been one of the people researching this stuff. The author writes about a bunch of studies, experiments, and individual testimony on the effects art can have on people. She also gives different ways to increase your engagement with the arts, and thus reap the health benefits. She also is aware of how some have different circumstances, so she includes a variety of different arts experinces for the reader look into and attempt.
I found this book very compelling while also being informative. This is a great book to shut down that little part of your brain that feels like you're wasting time when you draw bad art
ARC provided by netgalley
I found this book very compelling while also being informative. This is a great book to shut down that little part of your brain that feels like you're wasting time when you draw bad art
ARC provided by netgalley
September 23, 2025
Fancourt’s Art Cure is a convincing read about the impact of art on our mental and physical health as well as our enjoyment! I love the true stories, countless studies, and real life examples which exemplify and attest to the science of the importance of art in our lives. The crisp, colorful cover made me want to dive right in and learn the value of art for me and those around me. The ending included ways to incorporate art into my daily routine and lifestyle leaving me inspired to begin being more involved in artistic activities starting today.
Thanks to Goodreads for the opportunity to read Art Cure and to Fancourt for the inspiration!
Thanks to Goodreads for the opportunity to read Art Cure and to Fancourt for the inspiration!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I wanted to engage with this more but it was written so academically and less for the lay person that I felt like plenty was over my head. Then there wasn't any textual or visual boxes, illustrations, or graphs/charts to break up the long text that hummed along.
For the art people in my life, I'm sure they'll engage with it better. No one needs to convince me that the arts save lives, however I didn't understand this enough to be able to take it and share it with others in natural conversation. I wish is was written for a general audience because this doesn't seem targeted to everyperson.
For the art people in my life, I'm sure they'll engage with it better. No one needs to convince me that the arts save lives, however I didn't understand this enough to be able to take it and share it with others in natural conversation. I wish is was written for a general audience because this doesn't seem targeted to everyperson.
January 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives is an inspiring, entertaining, and informative book.
I loved this one. Daisy Francourt brilliantly incorporated her research on the power and importance of the arts for human health, anecdotes from her work, and recommendations for incorporating the arts into your life. It is eye-opening and inspiring, told with Francourt’s witty and engaging prose. Some parts felt slightly repetitive, and I hoped for more examples of how to incorporate the arts in one’s daily life; overall, however, I thoroughly enjoyed this one and highly recommend it!
I love when audiobooks are narrated by the author, and this one was no exception. Francourt’s voice captured her wit and energy beautifully, presenting an entertaining and welcoming listen. I highly recommend the audiobook!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ALC!
Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives is an inspiring, entertaining, and informative book.
I loved this one. Daisy Francourt brilliantly incorporated her research on the power and importance of the arts for human health, anecdotes from her work, and recommendations for incorporating the arts into your life. It is eye-opening and inspiring, told with Francourt’s witty and engaging prose. Some parts felt slightly repetitive, and I hoped for more examples of how to incorporate the arts in one’s daily life; overall, however, I thoroughly enjoyed this one and highly recommend it!
I love when audiobooks are narrated by the author, and this one was no exception. Francourt’s voice captured her wit and energy beautifully, presenting an entertaining and welcoming listen. I highly recommend the audiobook!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ALC!
February 5, 2026
Art Cure is an interesting and well-researched book about how art can contribute to a well body and mind. Both creating and interacting with other’s art decreases mental diseases and improves health outcomes. Plus it’s fun and broadening!
Each chapter concludes with helpful suggestions about how to include art into your life. Art Cure is an enlightening book that everyone, especially school board members, should read. 5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and Celadon Books for providing me with an advanced review copy.
Each chapter concludes with helpful suggestions about how to include art into your life. Art Cure is an enlightening book that everyone, especially school board members, should read. 5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and Celadon Books for providing me with an advanced review copy.
February 9, 2026
This was so uplifting and inspiring, in a way I was always drawn to all kinds of art as a healing process from a very young age, although the author points out that Portugal is among the countries with a low rating in investing in art as a useful tool for life. As an innate artist and a creative person whom became a teacher, I've always inspired my students to be creative and appreciative of art and I've seen how my generation embraced it slowly. I would love to see more in the healing process on many levels. Great read.
February 22, 2026
I loved the content, robust studies and research positioned in a way that is accessible to most readers. Relatively quick read, maybe dragged in part two as it shifted to idealized policy changes and cultural shifts to work towards. Mostly studies and work from the UK- so less ancestral wisdom included than I would have liked to see
Arts are not a luxury! Would be a good rec for someone who wants to try something new but is worried about efficacy of something artsy. I definitely will be singing more!!!
Arts are not a luxury! Would be a good rec for someone who wants to try something new but is worried about efficacy of something artsy. I definitely will be singing more!!!
February 26, 2026
Full review and summary.
With strong scientific proofs, Fancourt explains that art belongs in the same conversation as sleep, diet, and exercise. Through research on mental health, brain function, stress, aging, and even longevity, she shows how deeply art is connected to our well-being.
However, the book doesn’t romanticize the arts or treat them as a magical cure. Instead, it builds a thoughtful, evidence-based case for why creative engagement matters in everyday life.
I found the discussion on inequality in arts access especially important. It highlights how cultural participation is deeply tied to education and opportunity.
With strong scientific proofs, Fancourt explains that art belongs in the same conversation as sleep, diet, and exercise. Through research on mental health, brain function, stress, aging, and even longevity, she shows how deeply art is connected to our well-being.
However, the book doesn’t romanticize the arts or treat them as a magical cure. Instead, it builds a thoughtful, evidence-based case for why creative engagement matters in everyday life.
I found the discussion on inequality in arts access especially important. It highlights how cultural participation is deeply tied to education and opportunity.
February 27, 2026
Fancourt does an amazing job of explaining how the arts help us on many levels, using a mix of personal stories and academic research.
Each chapter deals with a different aspect of how the arts improve life, from well-being to mental health to longevity. She summarizes her points in a final chapter of guidelines for those who want to incorporate the arts into their lives.
As a reformed academic, it was nice to see that when she presented the research, she noted the problems with the different research methods.
Each chapter deals with a different aspect of how the arts improve life, from well-being to mental health to longevity. She summarizes her points in a final chapter of guidelines for those who want to incorporate the arts into their lives.
As a reformed academic, it was nice to see that when she presented the research, she noted the problems with the different research methods.
March 3, 2026
If you've never heard of art as a healing process, then this book is for you. It's for beginners. When I wrote a research paper on Loneliness in the Elderly a few years ago, this was a suggested "cure." It's not only for the elderly but for all - just as loneliness doesn't just effect the elderly. Loneliness is an epidemic. Art does more than heal loneliness though. Physically and mentally it regulates blood pressure slows heart rates and eases anxiety. Reading this made me revisit my desire to implement something...I'm always trying to implement something though.
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