From 1980-1990 Alan LeQuire built the largest sculpture in the western world: a recreation of Athena Parthenos located inside Nashville's Parthenon at Centennial Park. During the 10-year project Alan's mother, Louise LeQuire, made many visits to the site with her grandchildren, who were very curious about the project. Being an educator and an artist, Louise soon saw the potential for a children's book. Athena Smiles was written and illustrated by Louise LeQuire for her grandchildren and for children who would visit the Nashville Parthenon in the years to come.
