Hello, Neighbor!: The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers

When readers first see Fred Rogers in this authorized picture book biography, he's an instantly recognizable figure playing his beloved piano; musical notes, hearts, and more pour forth from the instrument. Caldecott Medalist Cordell begins his story on the TV set of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, then circles back to Rogers's youth in Pittsburgh, detailing his loving family and appreciation of music, his sometimes painful childhood ("Fred was shy and often lonely"), and his unexpected discovery of television's possibilities for speaking to children: "He would simply be his honest self." Galleries of portraits include the show's inclusive cast of characters and some eminent guests. Drawings framed like television stills recreate the show's famous opening and closing sequences and capture moments happy, "like visiting the circus," and sad, "like saying goodbye to a beloved pet." Cordell acknowledges the vast audience in front of the television screen--and Rogers's own interest in how things work-- with drawings of children watching in their homes and camera operators maneuvering around the sets. Scribbly lines, soft colors, and earnest storytelling create an open, affectionate atmosphere perfectly in keeping with Rogers's quiet strength and generous heart. Back matter includes photographs and more information. Ages 4-8. Agents: Rosemary Stimola, Stimola Literary Studio and Matthew Shiels, Fred Rogers Productions. (May)

K-Gr 2--Newer and older fans are welcomed to the neighborhood in this warm, respectful tribute to Fred Rogers. The trolley chugs across the verso of the title page, then lands in the first spread right in the middle of the model streets. The view pulls back to show the entire television production set. The narrative then goes backward in time to discuss Rogers's childhood and early career. A mix of sepia-toned spot illustrations and full-color spreads convey history and the passage of time. While Mister Rogers currently is getting a lot of adult attention, this book is successful in returning the focus to a child audience, explaining how Rogers was unique and describing his lasting influence. The illustrations include many elements from the show; the act of identifying these details feels like a treasure hunt. A visual glossary explains the significance of the images. The children and adults depicted throughout the book have a variety of skin tones, and some pictures include people using wheelchairs. VERDICT Caldecott-winning author Cordell and the iconic Mister Rogers have a lot of neighbors. Buy multiple copies.--Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond