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Good Morning, Captain: Fifty Wonderful Years with Bob Keeshan, TV's Captain Kangaroo
A lavish photo history and intimate look at the career of Bob Keeshan, TV's Captain Kangaroo.
- GenresNonfictionBiographyTv
216 pages, Paperback
First published October 25, 1996
44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
September 13, 2025
Mar 29, 745pm ~~ Aw, such sweet memories! Review asap.
Mar 30, 8pm ~~ A couple of weeks ago I was watching something on YouTube and over on the side was a link about Captain Kangaroo, who was the host of my favorite show when I was very little. So I watched the clip and it mentioned that the Captain had written an autobiography. I checked at my favorite online used bookseller and sure enough they had one so of course I ordered and here we are.
I was born in 1958. I did not see the earliest years of the show, but by the early 1960's I watched all the time. Over the years I never forgot the characters and the fun I had while watching them. I loved them all, I don't remember having a favorite. Well, maybe The Dancing Bear. Or Mr. Moose. Or...no, I loved them all.
The book had tons of pictures, and chapters that talked about the creation and production of the show. It was really more a biography of the show than an autobiography of Keeshan himself, but that was fine with me. I thought it was so funny to read that his own children did not realize that Dad and The Captain were the same person. To tell the truth I never knew until many years later that there was a real person inside the character of Captain Kangaroo. And I remember how shocked I was when I did learn that! The magic of television and the innocence of children, right? Of course, back in those days I used to talk into our tv set, trying to tell the Lone Ranger to be careful because the bad guys were sneaking up on him. I never could understand why he didn't hear me. lol
I also never knew who actually played The Dancing Bear. When I was little I used to think that Mister Greenjeans was really The Dancing Bear but that this fact was a big secret and I coudl not tell anyone. I have no idea how I got that idea into my head, but to be completely honest, when I read in this book that the puppet master who worked Mr. Moose and Bunny Rabbit was also inside the Dancing Bear costume, I was actually surprised. lol
The book was fun to read, with chapters that talked about how the show was created, how the cast was put together, who was responsible for the animal 'guests', and also a chapter about the guest stars who had appeared over the years. One of my favorite parts of the show was where the Captain would read a story book while the camera showed the illustrations from the pages. There was a section that talked about that and how important Keeshan felt it was to read to children early.
Overall, this was a lovely book and a wonderful little stroll down Memory Lane. There are many early episodes of the show on Youtube, and one of these days, just for fun, I will pick one from the early 60's and watch it. I am kind of missing The Dancing Bear right now.
Oh, while I was looking for this book I found a few children's books that Keeshan wrote. I never knew he had written such books so I ordered one to explore. Mother has already read it and liked it a lot. As a former teacher of second grade, she would be a good judge, so I am looking forward to my chance to read Itty Bitty Kitty.
Mar 30, 8pm ~~ A couple of weeks ago I was watching something on YouTube and over on the side was a link about Captain Kangaroo, who was the host of my favorite show when I was very little. So I watched the clip and it mentioned that the Captain had written an autobiography. I checked at my favorite online used bookseller and sure enough they had one so of course I ordered and here we are.
I was born in 1958. I did not see the earliest years of the show, but by the early 1960's I watched all the time. Over the years I never forgot the characters and the fun I had while watching them. I loved them all, I don't remember having a favorite. Well, maybe The Dancing Bear. Or Mr. Moose. Or...no, I loved them all.
The book had tons of pictures, and chapters that talked about the creation and production of the show. It was really more a biography of the show than an autobiography of Keeshan himself, but that was fine with me. I thought it was so funny to read that his own children did not realize that Dad and The Captain were the same person. To tell the truth I never knew until many years later that there was a real person inside the character of Captain Kangaroo. And I remember how shocked I was when I did learn that! The magic of television and the innocence of children, right? Of course, back in those days I used to talk into our tv set, trying to tell the Lone Ranger to be careful because the bad guys were sneaking up on him. I never could understand why he didn't hear me. lol
I also never knew who actually played The Dancing Bear. When I was little I used to think that Mister Greenjeans was really The Dancing Bear but that this fact was a big secret and I coudl not tell anyone. I have no idea how I got that idea into my head, but to be completely honest, when I read in this book that the puppet master who worked Mr. Moose and Bunny Rabbit was also inside the Dancing Bear costume, I was actually surprised. lol
The book was fun to read, with chapters that talked about how the show was created, how the cast was put together, who was responsible for the animal 'guests', and also a chapter about the guest stars who had appeared over the years. One of my favorite parts of the show was where the Captain would read a story book while the camera showed the illustrations from the pages. There was a section that talked about that and how important Keeshan felt it was to read to children early.
Overall, this was a lovely book and a wonderful little stroll down Memory Lane. There are many early episodes of the show on Youtube, and one of these days, just for fun, I will pick one from the early 60's and watch it. I am kind of missing The Dancing Bear right now.
Oh, while I was looking for this book I found a few children's books that Keeshan wrote. I never knew he had written such books so I ordered one to explore. Mother has already read it and liked it a lot. As a former teacher of second grade, she would be a good judge, so I am looking forward to my chance to read Itty Bitty Kitty.
October 26, 2022
I was a childhood fan and I am amazed at the accomplishments of this amazing man. Many thanks to you Captain!
March 29, 2021
A delightful walk down memory lane, with Bob Keeshan, or as I knew him when I as a child, Captain Kangaroo, with a lot of photos and introductions to the cast and crew, some of whom we saw and some of whom stayed behind the camera (and one or two who stayed hidden in a puppet!). I've know for some time about Bob's dedication to helping children grow and develop, and enjoyed getting to know some of the other ways in which he fulfilled this mission, from testifying before Congress and traveling around the country and working with local orchestras to put on classical programs for children. If you remember Captain Kangaroo, you'll enjoy this book! If you don't remember Captain Kangaroo, this is a great introduction to the early days of television and a man with a vision to connect with children around the world and "edutain" them.
Side comment: I think Mr. Greenjean's propensity for puns, had an early influence on my sense of humor that has stayed with me for life. Thank you, Lumpy.
Side comment: I think Mr. Greenjean's propensity for puns, had an early influence on my sense of humor that has stayed with me for life. Thank you, Lumpy.
February 23, 2014
I was reading on an internet forum about someone wishing he could purchase "Captain Kangaroo" on DVD to watch again, and it reminded me how much I enjoyed the Captain, Mister Moose, and Mr. Green Jeans when I was growing up. I decided to see if there was a biography out, and found this autobiography at the library.
While not as deep into his life as I would have liked to have read, it was very fun to read, see all the pictures, and be taken back in time to that small child watching this wonderful show.
While not as deep into his life as I would have liked to have read, it was very fun to read, see all the pictures, and be taken back in time to that small child watching this wonderful show.
May 24, 2024
October 3, 1955.
I was about two and a half months shy of five years old, lived in the small town of Palmyra in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania with my parents and my sister Barbara who was fourteen months younger than me.
I don't remember that day. I don't even know if we had a television set; many families didn't. My earliest memories of daily life were of the radio being on most of the time, the music of Rosemary Clooney and Les Paul and Mary Ford delighting my mother's ear --- and mine.
I was in kindergarten on that day, or more accurately, that morning, so I didn't see the debut of Captain Kangaroo. However, if we did have a television, Barb and I very likely did witness the opening episode of the children's program that has stayed within our minds and hearts more than any other. That afternoon we became members of the Mickey Mouse Club.
All that being said, (or written), do not underestimate the impact Captain Kangaroo had on us, or at least on me.
Bob Keeshan lovingly covers the almost forty years Captain Kangaroo was a morning staple on CBS and later syndication. Through all those years, the cast of the Captain I grew up with --- Mr. Green Jeans, Bunny Rabbit, Mr. Moose, Grandfather Clock, and Dancing Bear remained occupants of the Treasure House. As I aged past the target audience, I still tuned in from time to time, especially on Thanksgiving morning, when I saw new characters and plots. For example, the raining of ping pong balls upon the Captain was not part of the early program years. Thus, much of what Keeshan recalled from the Captain years came on the air after I had been a regular viewer.
I retain two fondly cherished memories of the Captain. One was seeing him in concert, a Sunday surprise from my parents. The Captain appeared with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra in Harrisburg. What a thrill that was.
The second is one I wish could be relived annually. Back in the 1960's, Thanksgiving morning on CBS was dominated by its coverage of Thanksgiving parades from Toronto, Detroit, Philadelphia, and, of course, Macy's Parade from New York City. Before the parades was Captain Kangaroo. That program always ended the same way, with Mr. Green Jeans, Dancing Bear, Santa Claus, and the Captain sitting down to Thanksgiving dinner, pausing to give thanks, with the mellow voice of Perry Como singing the hymn We Gather Together. Watching it always produced what I call "sentimental tears", as did some reading moments. However, because much of the book did not touch my Captain memories, I rate the book
Three stars waxing
I was about two and a half months shy of five years old, lived in the small town of Palmyra in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania with my parents and my sister Barbara who was fourteen months younger than me.
I don't remember that day. I don't even know if we had a television set; many families didn't. My earliest memories of daily life were of the radio being on most of the time, the music of Rosemary Clooney and Les Paul and Mary Ford delighting my mother's ear --- and mine.
I was in kindergarten on that day, or more accurately, that morning, so I didn't see the debut of Captain Kangaroo. However, if we did have a television, Barb and I very likely did witness the opening episode of the children's program that has stayed within our minds and hearts more than any other. That afternoon we became members of the Mickey Mouse Club.
All that being said, (or written), do not underestimate the impact Captain Kangaroo had on us, or at least on me.
Bob Keeshan lovingly covers the almost forty years Captain Kangaroo was a morning staple on CBS and later syndication. Through all those years, the cast of the Captain I grew up with --- Mr. Green Jeans, Bunny Rabbit, Mr. Moose, Grandfather Clock, and Dancing Bear remained occupants of the Treasure House. As I aged past the target audience, I still tuned in from time to time, especially on Thanksgiving morning, when I saw new characters and plots. For example, the raining of ping pong balls upon the Captain was not part of the early program years. Thus, much of what Keeshan recalled from the Captain years came on the air after I had been a regular viewer.
I retain two fondly cherished memories of the Captain. One was seeing him in concert, a Sunday surprise from my parents. The Captain appeared with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra in Harrisburg. What a thrill that was.
The second is one I wish could be relived annually. Back in the 1960's, Thanksgiving morning on CBS was dominated by its coverage of Thanksgiving parades from Toronto, Detroit, Philadelphia, and, of course, Macy's Parade from New York City. Before the parades was Captain Kangaroo. That program always ended the same way, with Mr. Green Jeans, Dancing Bear, Santa Claus, and the Captain sitting down to Thanksgiving dinner, pausing to give thanks, with the mellow voice of Perry Como singing the hymn We Gather Together. Watching it always produced what I call "sentimental tears", as did some reading moments. However, because much of the book did not touch my Captain memories, I rate the book
Three stars waxing
January 5, 2026
I lusted for this book for years but never could manage to find a copy in stock. My childhood and BFF, Mickey, came through for Christmas. In fact all I wanted this year was books in any format. She bought all year around. I’ll have books for many months during 2026.
REVIEW: Memories oh precious memories! Mornings sitting on the floor in front of the TV eating a bowl of Cheerios and watching the Captain. Bunny Rabbit tricking Mr. Moose with ping pong balls, and tricking the Captain to get his carrots. Tom Terrific (does anyone remember the words to Crabby Appleton's song? I can only recall the first few lines.) and the lovable Mr Green Jeans, Mr Bainter the painter, and waking up Grandfather Clock. I loved them all. This book takes me back to that special part of my childhood. I wondered where The Banana Man was - he wasn't included in the book. Na, na, na, na, na, wow! This is a wonderful book chocked full of memories. Miss you, dear Bob Keeshan. Thanks for bringing so much whimsical and magical times to a little girl’s childhood. You’ll be remembered fondly and loved the rest of my life. ❤️
REVIEW: Memories oh precious memories! Mornings sitting on the floor in front of the TV eating a bowl of Cheerios and watching the Captain. Bunny Rabbit tricking Mr. Moose with ping pong balls, and tricking the Captain to get his carrots. Tom Terrific (does anyone remember the words to Crabby Appleton's song? I can only recall the first few lines.) and the lovable Mr Green Jeans, Mr Bainter the painter, and waking up Grandfather Clock. I loved them all. This book takes me back to that special part of my childhood. I wondered where The Banana Man was - he wasn't included in the book. Na, na, na, na, na, wow! This is a wonderful book chocked full of memories. Miss you, dear Bob Keeshan. Thanks for bringing so much whimsical and magical times to a little girl’s childhood. You’ll be remembered fondly and loved the rest of my life. ❤️
March 10, 2016
So OK: how many of you starting humming the tune that was played every morning when the Captain opened the Treasure House??
Bob Keeshan was an amazing man who advocated for children and believed in teaching the importance of reading, being kind to animals, and living in the moment. He influenced a lot of children who responded to his character's openness and ability to communicate on many levels. The use of puppets preceded Sesame Street by many years and showed how they can be used in teaching and interacting with children. Mr. Green Jeans, Mr. Moose, Dancing Bear, and a host of others presented a warm, welcoming place that kids could visit through their television sets. This was ground-breaking!
Captain Kangaroo will live forever through the kids he inspired. Huzzah!!
Bob Keeshan was an amazing man who advocated for children and believed in teaching the importance of reading, being kind to animals, and living in the moment. He influenced a lot of children who responded to his character's openness and ability to communicate on many levels. The use of puppets preceded Sesame Street by many years and showed how they can be used in teaching and interacting with children. Mr. Green Jeans, Mr. Moose, Dancing Bear, and a host of others presented a warm, welcoming place that kids could visit through their television sets. This was ground-breaking!
Captain Kangaroo will live forever through the kids he inspired. Huzzah!!
March 24, 2017
Would have been 5 stars but I wanted to know more. I loved the Captain & truly wish I could share him with my Grandsons. I consider visiting the Little Red Lighthouse in NYC one of my favorite memories because I have never forgotten the Captain reading that book. If you grew up with the Captain & Mr. Green Jeans, you will enjoy this trip down memory lane, but it most definitely will leave you wanting more of the Treasure House.
April 18, 2022
A great book! Thanks Captain!
July 1, 2024
This was a great overview of Captain Kangaroo written by the Captain himself. It covered all aspects of the show but I was left wanting a little more about the content of the shows themselves, particularly Mr. Moose and the infamous ping pong balls. Bob Keeshan was a wonderful person and I was a big fan when I was watching the show growing up.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews