Bruce Degen Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Bruce Degen was a distinguished author and illustrator whose work has left an indelible mark on children's literature. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1945, he was raised in Brownsville and spent his summers in rural upstate New York. These formative experiences inspired his 1983 classic Jamberry, a whimsical tale of a boy and a bear celebrating the joys of berry-picking. Degen's early education included LaGuardia High School, Cooper Union, and Pratt Institute, where he honed his artistic skills. In the mid-1980s, Degen's collaboration with author Joanna Cole led to the creation of The Magic School Bus series. The first book, The Magic School Bus at the Waterworks, was published in 1986 and introduced readers to the eccentric Ms. Frizzle and her class's adventurous field trips. Over the years, Degen illustrated 14 books in the series, which sold over 95 million copies worldwide and inspired television adaptations on PBS and Netflix. Beyond The Magic School Bus, Degen contributed to several other beloved children's books. He illustrated Jane Yolen's Commander Toad series and Nancy White Carlstrom's Jesse Bear books. Additionally, he authored and illustrated Daddy Is a Doodlebug and I Gotta Draw, showcasing his versatility and passion for storytelling. Degen's professional journey was diverse, encompassing roles as an art teacher in New York City public schools, a printmaker, and the director of an artists' lithography studio in Israel. He believed in the power of children's books to combine humor and art, stating, "You can do a painting, and it might end up being on somebody’s wall, but if you do a book, it goes out to the world." In 1990, Degen and his family moved to Newtown, Connecticut, where he continued his work and community involvement. He passed away on November 7, 2024, at the age of 79. Degen is survived by his wife, Christine, and their two sons, Benjamin and Alex, both of whom are artists. His legacy endures through his contributions to children's literature and the countless young minds he inspired.