Becoming Beatrix - by Amy M O'Quinn (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Beatrix Potter forged her own creative path to independence, fame, and financial success.

Peter Rabbit, Hunca Munca, Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, Squirrel Nutkin, Jemima Puddle-Duck--many readers are familiar with the animal characters created by British author and illustrator Beatrix Potter. But she was so much more than a painter of watercolor bunnies in little blue jackets or ducks waddling about in bonnets and shawls. She was a natural scientist, mycologist, environmentalist, preservationist, farmer, and expert sheep breeder. Beatrix Potter was a woman ahead of her time, making her own decisions and handling her own business affairs despite living in a Victorian society that was unaccustomed to unmarried women doing so.

Becoming Beatrix covers Potter's early life and influences, artistic work, fascination with animals and the natural sciences, and interest and research in fungi, as well as her writing and illustration journey and her later years as a wife, farmer, businesswoman, and conservationist.

This is the story of Beatrix beyond the bunnies.

Review Quotes

"In this fascinating biography ideal for Peter Rabbit fans, author Amy O'Quinn shows how Potter merged her imagination and artistic talent with her visionary efforts as a conservationist to create the unforgettable tale of a lively bunny in a blue coat." --Rosanne Tolin, author of More than Marmalade

"Exceptionally well written, impressively informative, and thoroughly 'kid friendly' in organization and presentation." --Midwest Book Review


"Amy's new biography offers a clear, detailed look at Beatrix Potter's fascinating life which should resonate with adult readers too." -- Cumbria Life Magazine

"O'Quinn gives readers a well-rounded account of the author-illustrator." -- School Library Journal

"Perfect for young fans of Beatrix Potter and those interested in women's history." -- Growing with Science Blog

"Well researched and carefully contextualized within the social norms of her times, the book smoothly incorporates Potter's lesser-known accomplishments...as well as her widely recognized successes. An informative introduction to an admirable woman." -- Booklist

"Becoming Beatrix is a delightful and inspirational account of the life journey Beatrix Potter took to endear herself in the hearts and imaginations of children." --Nancy I. Sanders, author of Jane Austen for Kids

"This fascinating biography of beloved children's author Beatrix Potter introduces readers to her world, her art, and her love of the natural world. What an entertaining and informative read!" --Elizabeth Raum, author of The Big, Bold, Adventurous Life of Lavinia Warren

"Becoming Beatrix is a meticulously researched and engaging window into the life of Beatrix Potter that highlights an important theme for young readers: you don't have to be just one thing. Beatrix bucked the norms of her Victorian-era upbringing to succeed in not only art and publishing but also science, conservation, and agriculture, among other pursuits. This book covers the full breadth of her joys and heartbreaks, from her privileged childhood through the humbler lifestyle she adopts near the end of her life. Becoming Beatrix is an empowering must-read for Potter enthusiasts and dynamic young naturalists alike." --Lindsay H. Metcalf, author of Beatrix Potter, Scientist

About the Author

Amy M. O'Quinn is an educator and the author of Nikola Tesla for Kids and Marie Curie for Kids. She is also a freelance educational writer, content creator, school presenter, and speaker. She lives with her family in Georgia.