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You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood
A heartwarming picture book that celebrates the work of Mister Rogers and carries on his legacy of kindness
Mister Rogers is one of the most beloved television personalities, but before he was the man who brought us Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, he was just little Freddie Rogers. Though he was often sick and had trouble making friends as a child, his mom and grandfather encouraged him to ask for help and explore the world. With their support, he learned how to better say what he was feeling and see the beauty around him. As he grew up, he realized he could spread the message of compassion, equality, and kindness through television. You Are My Friend is a gentle homage to Fred Rogers and shows how his simple message still resonates with us today: “There’s no person in the world like you and I like you just the way you are.” The book includes a short biography of Fred’s life and a bibliography.
This is a work of fiction. This book is an expression of admiration of Fred Rogers, the man and the artist, by the author and illustrator. This book is not associated with or endorsed by The Fred Rogers Company.
Mister Rogers is one of the most beloved television personalities, but before he was the man who brought us Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, he was just little Freddie Rogers. Though he was often sick and had trouble making friends as a child, his mom and grandfather encouraged him to ask for help and explore the world. With their support, he learned how to better say what he was feeling and see the beauty around him. As he grew up, he realized he could spread the message of compassion, equality, and kindness through television. You Are My Friend is a gentle homage to Fred Rogers and shows how his simple message still resonates with us today: “There’s no person in the world like you and I like you just the way you are.” The book includes a short biography of Fred’s life and a bibliography.
This is a work of fiction. This book is an expression of admiration of Fred Rogers, the man and the artist, by the author and illustrator. This book is not associated with or endorsed by The Fred Rogers Company.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published August 6, 2019
9 people are currently reading
1770 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
August 8, 2019
What a lovely book. I almost cried a few times, but not because it was sad (although a couple times it was sad), but because those moments were precious and I felt "the feels". Fred Rogers was an amazing human and I loved reading this book. I learned more about him, especially with the biography at the end which I highly enjoyed, and I love his philosophy of kindness and learning to share your feelings through music, puppets, whatever it may be in a nonviolent way. The illustrations are wonderful and fit the story well. It ended the best way it could have too, with the famous quote by Mister Rogers, "You've made this day a special day, by just your being you. There's no person in the whole world like you, and I like you just the way you are.". PRECIOUS.
I highly recommend this book, even if you didn't like his show or didn't grow up watching it, it's worth a read. It's an amazing book. GO READ IT.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
I also really loved how his famous quote originated from what his grandpa told him when he was a child. HOW GREAT IS THAT?! Ugh, the feels, man. I love it. That's so precious.
I highly recommend this book, even if you didn't like his show or didn't grow up watching it, it's worth a read. It's an amazing book. GO READ IT.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
I also really loved how his famous quote originated from what his grandpa told him when he was a child. HOW GREAT IS THAT?! Ugh, the feels, man. I love it. That's so precious.
June 18, 2021
You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood is a children's picture book by Aimee Reid and illustrated Matt Phelan. It chronicles the story of this extraordinary childhood icon.
Fred McFeely Rogers, also known as Mister Rogers, was an American television host, author, producer and Presbyterian minister. He was the creator, showrunner and host of the preschool television series Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, which ran from 1968 to 2001.
Reid's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Reid who strikes a soothing, almost reportorial tone throughout emulates the tone of Rogers rather well. Backmatter includes poignant notes from the author and illustrator explaining the purpose, vision, and heart behind this book. Pencil-and-watercolor art by Phelan exudes a sense of warmth and reflection, not unlike Rogers' show itself.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. In this graceful, quietly moving biography, readers learn that Fred Rogers started life as an outlier, bullied and often sick, with only his puppets for friends. The discovery that emotions of all kinds could be articulated through music, and the loving attention of a few key adults, help Rogers gain confidence and a sense of purpose, inspiring him to invent a television show that celebrates helping, kindness, and the importance of people learning to like themselves.
All in all, You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood is a simply written, thoughtful tribute worthy of the incomparable Mister Rogers.
Fred McFeely Rogers, also known as Mister Rogers, was an American television host, author, producer and Presbyterian minister. He was the creator, showrunner and host of the preschool television series Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, which ran from 1968 to 2001.
Reid's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Reid who strikes a soothing, almost reportorial tone throughout emulates the tone of Rogers rather well. Backmatter includes poignant notes from the author and illustrator explaining the purpose, vision, and heart behind this book. Pencil-and-watercolor art by Phelan exudes a sense of warmth and reflection, not unlike Rogers' show itself.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. In this graceful, quietly moving biography, readers learn that Fred Rogers started life as an outlier, bullied and often sick, with only his puppets for friends. The discovery that emotions of all kinds could be articulated through music, and the loving attention of a few key adults, help Rogers gain confidence and a sense of purpose, inspiring him to invent a television show that celebrates helping, kindness, and the importance of people learning to like themselves.
All in all, You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood is a simply written, thoughtful tribute worthy of the incomparable Mister Rogers.
November 13, 2021
A sweet children's story about people who like you just as you are.
November 6, 2019
A simple but engaging biography on Fred Rogers of Mr. Rogers fame.
November 29, 2019
Fans of Fred Rogers will enjoy this picture book biography of the boy who would grow up and create the beloved children's television show, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.
Starting in his younger years of playing with puppets and learning the piano, this picture book gives us glimpses into Fred Rogers' life and how he came to be the incredible man he was.
Having been bullied as a child, Fred found a positive way to express himself and his feelings; through music. He also had people in his life that accepted him and urged him to look for the good in the world.
His childhood takes up a good portion of the story and focuses on how Freddie learned and grew to be the amazingly kind and accepting man that we knew him to be from his tv show.
The watercolor illustrations are warm and friendly and do a wonderful job of reflecting the joy, wonder, and kindness that Mister Rogers has spread to the world.
This picture book includes a brief biography of Fred Rogers in the back along with a select bibliography of other works about Fred Rogers.
This review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature.
Starting in his younger years of playing with puppets and learning the piano, this picture book gives us glimpses into Fred Rogers' life and how he came to be the incredible man he was.
Having been bullied as a child, Fred found a positive way to express himself and his feelings; through music. He also had people in his life that accepted him and urged him to look for the good in the world.
His childhood takes up a good portion of the story and focuses on how Freddie learned and grew to be the amazingly kind and accepting man that we knew him to be from his tv show.
The watercolor illustrations are warm and friendly and do a wonderful job of reflecting the joy, wonder, and kindness that Mister Rogers has spread to the world.
This picture book includes a brief biography of Fred Rogers in the back along with a select bibliography of other works about Fred Rogers.
This review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature.
October 1, 2019
Mister Rogers himself would have liked this book, I think. So you should probably read it. We should all act the way Mister Rogers said we should.
September 30, 2019
First sentence: In the springtime, when everything was growing and green, Freddie Rogers had to stay inside.
Premise/plot: You Are My Friend by Aimee Reid is a picture book biography of Mr. Fred Rogers.
My thoughts: I have long wanted a picture book biography of Mr. Rogers. For years I have talked about the need for one. My expectations were super high since I love, love, love Mr. Rogers so very much. I thought the text of this one was good, very good. I loved some of the details it included about his childhood. I loved the emphasis on feelings and expressing your feelings. Exactly what you’d expect from a biography on Fred Rogers.
Text: 5/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Total: 9/10
Premise/plot: You Are My Friend by Aimee Reid is a picture book biography of Mr. Fred Rogers.
My thoughts: I have long wanted a picture book biography of Mr. Rogers. For years I have talked about the need for one. My expectations were super high since I love, love, love Mr. Rogers so very much. I thought the text of this one was good, very good. I loved some of the details it included about his childhood. I loved the emphasis on feelings and expressing your feelings. Exactly what you’d expect from a biography on Fred Rogers.
Text: 5/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Total: 9/10
August 28, 2019
This is a book I'll likely buy - it's just the sort of thing to read again and again. Mr. Rogers was a hero who helped build the emotional intelligence of a generation, and whose work continues to shine forward into the future.
June 25, 2020
I don't know if this truly deserves a 5, but damnit, we could really use Fred Rogers right now. And like him, this biography is sweet and loving without being saccharine. Charming art, where, like his adult self, young "Freddie" is almost always in a sweater, and I especially love the picture of him playing the piano, eyes closed. It really has the FEEL of Fred Rogers.
September 13, 2019
Mister Rogers was my absolute favorite as a child. This book padi great homage to him, but the writing felt a bit flat. The art however lifted the story and gave you all of the emotions you should feel when reading about Mister Rogers and his neighborhood.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
November 27, 2019
This is a disappointing attempt to convey Fred Rogers's life story to kids. Though it's not a biography, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: The Poetry of Mister Rogers does a better job of capturing this wonderful man's spirit.
January 21, 2020
Excellent pb bio of Mr Rogers. Phelan's artwork isn't a showstopper here, but it is perfectly quiet and appropriate for the subject and the message. What a guy. We're all so lucky to have had him as our neighbor, even as we sat miles and miles away from Pittsburgh.
January 19, 2021
So excellent. And just when I needed it. Thank you, Fred Rogers and co. Long live his story!
February 6, 2020
This is a heartwarming and inspiring story depicting the challenges Fred Rogers had as a young boy. Fred’s grandfather told him he was special and liked him just the way he was. Those words sank deep inside Fred. As an adult, keeping those words in mind, Fred created a successful television show – Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood – that taught empathy and appreciation for one another's abilities.
December 31, 2019
Along with the movie, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and Maxwell King's book, The Good Neighbor, this book is a timely tribute to Mr. Fred Rogers for younger children. Aimee Reid did much research, but states that this is a work of fiction not a biography. That being said she does capture the loving, giving thoughtful nature which Fred Rogers presented to his young viewer.
December 5, 2019
This book is a wonderful tribute to an extraordinary man. It is well written and the illustrations are beautiful!
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
― Fred Rogers
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
― Fred Rogers
December 14, 2019
The pace, the tone, and the illustrations are like Mister Rogers himself--direct and simple. Wonderful book about the man who was honest enough to look us in the eye and say, "I like you just the way you are."
January 9, 2020
Sweet little book about Mr. Rogers' childhood and his pathway to helping others. Look for the helpers and find your neighbors. You are made special. I loved the recent movie about his life (for adults) and am diving into all these stories about him. We need Mr. Rogers today!
January 7, 2020
I enjoyed learning more about Mr. Rogers, his life as a child and why he made such a good television show as an adult.
September 8, 2019
You are my friend, you are special
You are my friend, you're special to me
There's only one in this wonderful world
You Are Special....
I don't remember watching much of Mister Rogers, because back then we weren't allowed to watch much TV. But I did have three of his records which I listened to all of the time, knew them by heart, and still have them ringing through my head every once in a while.
So when I saw this storybook biography of the young Fred in a red sweater...I knew I need to read it.
His story starts like many others, childhood illness makes him the subject of school bullies which made him very, very sad. He deals with his emotions with music (that which I grew up with). His mother tells him to look for good people that are helping other people -- and he finds many good neighbors. His Grandfather McFeely (recognize the name?) gives him the advice that will change his life -- "His grandpa told Fred that he liked him just the way he was. He said Fred was special and that, just by being himself. Fred made the day special too. Fred let those words sink deep inside him. As he though about them, he felt braver."
So as Fred grows older he uses those special words to create his own neighborhood giving children a safe, educational environment to learn to deal with their emotions and the people around them. He creates a TV show and sends the message across the airwaves and becomes a favorite of children and adults alike. Each show ends with Mister Rogers sharing those special words -- YOU ARE SPECIAL.
The book also includes simple biographies of the author Aimee Reid and illustrator Matt Phelan and the impact that Mister Rogers made on their lives which is a great conclusion of this book.
You are my friend, you're special to me
There's only one in this wonderful world
You Are Special....
I don't remember watching much of Mister Rogers, because back then we weren't allowed to watch much TV. But I did have three of his records which I listened to all of the time, knew them by heart, and still have them ringing through my head every once in a while.
So when I saw this storybook biography of the young Fred in a red sweater...I knew I need to read it.
His story starts like many others, childhood illness makes him the subject of school bullies which made him very, very sad. He deals with his emotions with music (that which I grew up with). His mother tells him to look for good people that are helping other people -- and he finds many good neighbors. His Grandfather McFeely (recognize the name?) gives him the advice that will change his life -- "His grandpa told Fred that he liked him just the way he was. He said Fred was special and that, just by being himself. Fred made the day special too. Fred let those words sink deep inside him. As he though about them, he felt braver."
So as Fred grows older he uses those special words to create his own neighborhood giving children a safe, educational environment to learn to deal with their emotions and the people around them. He creates a TV show and sends the message across the airwaves and becomes a favorite of children and adults alike. Each show ends with Mister Rogers sharing those special words -- YOU ARE SPECIAL.
The book also includes simple biographies of the author Aimee Reid and illustrator Matt Phelan and the impact that Mister Rogers made on their lives which is a great conclusion of this book.
November 28, 2019
With gentle, minimal text and images, the well-known adult Fred Rogers comes to life on the page first as a sickly, timid, lonely little boy. Everyday experiences reveal his gradually developed ability to entertain himself with imagination (and puppets), to listen intently to those he trusted, and to absorb and apply their wise words in his own life.
He finally developed the confidence to consider running along a stone wall. When he dared to ask permission, the gathered adults told him no. But Grandpa McFeely said yes, and then affirmed Fred's courage when the boy came back with a skinned knee.
Unlike some biographic picture books, this one successfully keeps the focus on Fred as a child long enough for readers to identify with him as a child. They are able to see him as an ordinary boy, one who could be in their classroom or neighborhood.
Only then do they see him move ahead to become an observant, curious adult with a keen eye for making the world better. In one important case, a pivotal event, he imagined how making the new world of children's television could make the whole world a better place for... children.
Of all the ways he opened the world to young viewers, Fred Rogers never lost sight of those childhood messages: Look for the helpers, I believe in you, and you are wonderful just the way you are. The ways in which this ordinary hero changed lives is immeasurable. This picture book biography plants the seed of truth: anyone can be a hero. Everyone IS a hero when they live up to their best selves.
Added back matter and resources are accessible and add valuable details and insights.
He finally developed the confidence to consider running along a stone wall. When he dared to ask permission, the gathered adults told him no. But Grandpa McFeely said yes, and then affirmed Fred's courage when the boy came back with a skinned knee.
Unlike some biographic picture books, this one successfully keeps the focus on Fred as a child long enough for readers to identify with him as a child. They are able to see him as an ordinary boy, one who could be in their classroom or neighborhood.
Only then do they see him move ahead to become an observant, curious adult with a keen eye for making the world better. In one important case, a pivotal event, he imagined how making the new world of children's television could make the whole world a better place for... children.
Of all the ways he opened the world to young viewers, Fred Rogers never lost sight of those childhood messages: Look for the helpers, I believe in you, and you are wonderful just the way you are. The ways in which this ordinary hero changed lives is immeasurable. This picture book biography plants the seed of truth: anyone can be a hero. Everyone IS a hero when they live up to their best selves.
Added back matter and resources are accessible and add valuable details and insights.
October 19, 2019
Celebrate the life of the person who became Mister Rogers, a beloved children’s television creator. As a child, Freddie was often sick and filled his days with puppets. He found it hard to make friends and was bullied sometimes. Freddie found that piano was a way he could express his feelings. His mother also told him to look for people around who were helpers, which made him feel safe and supported. His grandfather allowed Freddie to take risks as a child and know that he was adored. When Fred Rogers created his television show, he incorporated all of these childhood inspirations. His show had lots of helpers who shared their talents, talked about difficult subjects, and always told children that they were valued.
Reid draws clear parallels between Fred Rogers’ childhood experiences and the television show he eventually created. The use of his own childhood as inspiration resonates with the readers, allowing them to better understand the impetus behind the iconic show. Even his own talents with puppetry and piano which were highlighted on the show are shown as ways that he expressed himself in the darker times of growing up.
Phelan’s art is done in watercolor and pencil. Special small moments are created in the images such as Freddie Rogers wearing a cardigan or the simple images of Rogers on the television in a variety of situations.
A book that vibrantly captures one of the pioneers of children’s television. Appropriate for ages 5-8.
Reid draws clear parallels between Fred Rogers’ childhood experiences and the television show he eventually created. The use of his own childhood as inspiration resonates with the readers, allowing them to better understand the impetus behind the iconic show. Even his own talents with puppetry and piano which were highlighted on the show are shown as ways that he expressed himself in the darker times of growing up.
Phelan’s art is done in watercolor and pencil. Special small moments are created in the images such as Freddie Rogers wearing a cardigan or the simple images of Rogers on the television in a variety of situations.
A book that vibrantly captures one of the pioneers of children’s television. Appropriate for ages 5-8.
October 16, 2019
4.25 Stars I liked the illustrations and story.
I liked Mister Rogers as a kid, but compared to Sesame Street, Mister Rogers was lame.
I thought the shiny faced puppets were creepy, Lady Elaine Fairchilde Creepy!
But, I like when Mr McFeely took us to the original "How it's made" I saw violins and all kinds of cool things being made! I liked the Trolley too!
As an adult I have much more admiration and appreciation for Mr. Rogers. He was amazing!
There will never be another Mr Fred Rogers!!! He taught me that I could never "go down the drain" and "He likes me just the way I am!"
I just can't believe that the author never saw Mr Rogers as child. She had a TV but says "She didn't live in a place that showed it" Sorry, I don't buy it! Maybe your family didn't choose to watch it, or weren't PBS people, but even in rural, rabbit ears America in the 1970's, Mr Roger's was on. I guess it is possible, but wow Poor deprived childhood!! If you could get CBS, NBC, ABC you got PBS.
Isn't it interesting that someone who never saw it as a child writes a book about it as an adult. She says she was exposed when here kids were little! Weird!
Also the cop out at the end "This is Fiction and not related to the Fred Rogers Company" How can I sell this as informational if it is fiction. Sigh!
I liked Mister Rogers as a kid, but compared to Sesame Street, Mister Rogers was lame.
I thought the shiny faced puppets were creepy, Lady Elaine Fairchilde Creepy!
But, I like when Mr McFeely took us to the original "How it's made" I saw violins and all kinds of cool things being made! I liked the Trolley too!
As an adult I have much more admiration and appreciation for Mr. Rogers. He was amazing!
There will never be another Mr Fred Rogers!!! He taught me that I could never "go down the drain" and "He likes me just the way I am!"
I just can't believe that the author never saw Mr Rogers as child. She had a TV but says "She didn't live in a place that showed it" Sorry, I don't buy it! Maybe your family didn't choose to watch it, or weren't PBS people, but even in rural, rabbit ears America in the 1970's, Mr Roger's was on. I guess it is possible, but wow Poor deprived childhood!! If you could get CBS, NBC, ABC you got PBS.
Isn't it interesting that someone who never saw it as a child writes a book about it as an adult. She says she was exposed when here kids were little! Weird!
Also the cop out at the end "This is Fiction and not related to the Fred Rogers Company" How can I sell this as informational if it is fiction. Sigh!
August 7, 2019
This is the perfect time for this book, between the "Won't you be my neighbor?" 2018 documentary and the 2019 Tom Hanks "A beautiful day in the neighborhood" movie. The illustrations are soft (pencil and watercolor). It is a nice background into Freddie's childhood. You meet his grandfather McFeeley as well as his neighbor Mama Bell Frampton. Even children and adults who dont know Mister Roger's or Daniel Tiger can learn and fall in love with him from this book. From relating to his experiences with bullying and feeling alone, to finding a passion for music, to being a person who makes a difference. I have loved Fred Rogers since I was a child. This made me love him more. A a brief biography of Fred, a bibliography of print, digital, and film resources are included as well as author and illustrator notes with more info. I'd love for this to receive some award nods. While the cover and CIP info calls it a work of fiction, I would still place it in biography. The author says she focused on the essence of his story and calls it an homage. I think we call other items with far less fact non-fiction.
August 17, 2019
Aimee Reid's deliberate simple prose reflects that used by Fred Rogers in his wonderful children's program and brings a clear sense of Rogers, his childhood, and his ground-breaking work. Matt Phelan does a glorious job of matching that with his lovely evocative illustrations focused on the red-sweatered Rogers.
Author and Illustrator Notes, and additional biographical information and bibliography round out the excellent back matter.
On a personal note here, I raised my two sons in the late 70's - early 80's and Mr. Rogers was a huge favorite with them - and with me. Extremely active, my boys were always on the go and I welcomed that half hour show both for my own change to catch my breath but also for the effect it had on the boys. I noticed that it slowed them down and calmed them and something about the gentle humor and reassurance of the show really spoke to those rambunctious little boys. Fred Rogers was a truly special man and this world needs more like him. His kindness, direct honesty and clear moral standards were a beacon then and are desperately needed now.
I really loved this sweet simple book that so beautifully introduces this man to a new generation of kids.
Author and Illustrator Notes, and additional biographical information and bibliography round out the excellent back matter.
On a personal note here, I raised my two sons in the late 70's - early 80's and Mr. Rogers was a huge favorite with them - and with me. Extremely active, my boys were always on the go and I welcomed that half hour show both for my own change to catch my breath but also for the effect it had on the boys. I noticed that it slowed them down and calmed them and something about the gentle humor and reassurance of the show really spoke to those rambunctious little boys. Fred Rogers was a truly special man and this world needs more like him. His kindness, direct honesty and clear moral standards were a beacon then and are desperately needed now.
I really loved this sweet simple book that so beautifully introduces this man to a new generation of kids.
August 5, 2019
Childrens picture book biography. This is the story of Fred Rogers, of Mr. Rogers fame. I did not watch Mr. Rogers as a kid but am currently watching a lot of Daniel Tiger with my toddler, which is kind of a spinoff. Fred was a child that was often sick, which led to him spending a lot of time alone and also tobeing bullied. To cope with his feelings, he turned to puppets and playing the piano. He also listened to his mother's advice to "look for the people who are helping". He had a close relationship with his Grandfather McFeely, who the mailman on his show was named after. As an adult, he saw a show where people threw pie at each other and wondered if TV could be used to make a positive impression on people instead. So he started his show--which was filled with puppets, music, and lots of people helping. The watercolor illustrations are very calming and fit very well with the text.
June 10, 2020
5 stars
This picture book biography of everyone’s most beloved neighbor, Fred Rogers, introduces him to a new generation of children. Aimee Reid, the author, provides a glimpse into “Freddie’s” childhood, which was the foundation for his wildly successful children’s TV show, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The message that all children are special just the way they are is in this book just as it was in the show. I loved Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood growing up (my favorite episode is the one where he shows how crayons are made) so I was excited to see a picture book for a new generation of neighbors. The text is easy for young children to understand and the illustrations evoke the same sense of calm Fred Rogers was known for. Recommended to anyone looking to introduce their children or grandchildren to Mister Rogers or simply looking for a calming presence during this chaotic time.
- Miss Anna
This picture book biography of everyone’s most beloved neighbor, Fred Rogers, introduces him to a new generation of children. Aimee Reid, the author, provides a glimpse into “Freddie’s” childhood, which was the foundation for his wildly successful children’s TV show, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The message that all children are special just the way they are is in this book just as it was in the show. I loved Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood growing up (my favorite episode is the one where he shows how crayons are made) so I was excited to see a picture book for a new generation of neighbors. The text is easy for young children to understand and the illustrations evoke the same sense of calm Fred Rogers was known for. Recommended to anyone looking to introduce their children or grandchildren to Mister Rogers or simply looking for a calming presence during this chaotic time.
- Miss Anna
December 30, 2021
I didn't really watch Mr Rogers growing up because I was a teenager by then. I did sit and watch it with my own children many years later. I've watched the documentary film, Won't you be my neighbour as well as A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. I might have been predisposed to love this book anyway, but I think that even if Fred Rogers story was completely new to me, I would adore this book. It tells the story of a boy growing up and learning to be himself. It reinforces the significance of intergenerational relationships and shows us how important one person can be to make the world a better place.
Matt Phelan's pencil and water colour illustrations combine with Aimee Reid's text to highlight the gentle integrity of Mr Roger's himself.
I agree with the illustrator of this book, Matt Phelan, who in his notes at the end of the book states,"The World needs more people like Fred Rogers.
Matt Phelan's pencil and water colour illustrations combine with Aimee Reid's text to highlight the gentle integrity of Mr Roger's himself.
I agree with the illustrator of this book, Matt Phelan, who in his notes at the end of the book states,"The World needs more people like Fred Rogers.
September 21, 2019
Our children grew up with Mr Rogers in the 80's. This gentle story about this gentle man made me all weepy. I feel so lucky that my boys were raised in an age/era that allowed Mr. Rogers to be the wonderful friend of so many lucky, lucky children. You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood is a testament to that. It's sad that young children today aren't exposed to his gentle honesty and integrity, in an era when they need it most.
We lived in Pittsburgh for a while, before all the airport hoopla do's and don't's we have now. Once, while waiting for my husband with the boys, we met Mr Rogers. He was patient, lovely, gentle and kind to my star-struck children. I am still in awe of him and share audiotapes (yes, audiotapes) of his musical messages with our grandchildren.
We lived in Pittsburgh for a while, before all the airport hoopla do's and don't's we have now. Once, while waiting for my husband with the boys, we met Mr Rogers. He was patient, lovely, gentle and kind to my star-struck children. I am still in awe of him and share audiotapes (yes, audiotapes) of his musical messages with our grandchildren.
November 21, 2019
Wouldn't the whole world be a kinder, friendlier, more gentle place if we all followed the advice of Mister Rogers? This picture book pays tribute to the kind-hearted television personality and offers details about his formative years, his career, and his philosophy on life. The softly-colored pencil and watercolor illustrations lend a romantic, sentimental look to the book's pages, and readers will come away missing Mister Rogers and longing for that (possibly) kinder time. To flesh out his story, there is also a brief biography in the back matter as well as a note from the illustrator and a select bibliography of additional readings. His message might have been simple, but it was consistent and supportive and worth hearkening to even today as 2019 draws to a close.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews