Hello, Neighbor!

By Matthew Cordell

Discover the heartwarming story behind Mister Rogers' Neighborhood and its creator.

5.9/7 Bookroo experts·4.5/5 Goodreads · 808 ratings

40 pages· 1,226 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Explore the life of Fred Rogers, the gentle visionary who created Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. This picture book reveals how he introduced children to art, professions, and tough topics with compassion. Through vibrant illustrations and rare photos, uncover the magic behind the beloved show that taught kindness and understanding. What inspired Fred's mission, and how did he bring comfort to countless families? Dive into this captivating biography to find out.

From the publisher

The only authorized picture book biography of Mister Rogers, written and illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Matthew Cordell.

How was Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood created, and who was the man that started it all? This moving and informative picture book explores the history of this acclaimed television show and its inspiring creator in an accessible way for children.

Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was groundbreaking in its own quiet, generous way. It introduced art, professions, food and even highlighted difficult subjects, like losing a loved one and divorce. This information was delivered both by live performers, like Fred Rogers himself and through a lively cast of puppets who lived in the land of make believe.

Backmatter includes a short biography of Fred Rogers as well as exclusively published archival photos provided by Fred Rogers Productions, and an essay from the author.

Available shortly after the release of the Mister Rogers’ biopic, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood starring Tom Hanks, this is the perfect picture book for all who appreciate the power and beauty of Fred’s mission.

Thoroughly illustrated with lively and captivating drawings, by Caldecott-winning author and illustrator Matthew Cordell, Hello, Neighbor! captures the spirit of the beloved television show.

A Junior Library Guild Selection!

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 40
Words: 1,226
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD910L

Themes & topics

Books about school and education Books about performing arts Books about television and radio Books about 21st century Books about 20th century

The Bookroo review

What our editors thought of Hello, Neighbor!

In this masterful picture book biography of Fred Rogers, Caldecott Medalist Cordell (Wolf in the Snow) shares what is clearly a personal, heartfelt tribute to the beloved children’s television personality. Opening with a closeup on the iconic miniature neighborhood, the next page zooms out to show a busy day on the Mister Rogers’ set before the narrative jumps back to describe Rogers’ early life—his family, religious influence, musical training, and early disappointment with television broadcasting. The story relates his path from running errands at NBC to behind-the-scenes work on The Children’s Corner to the national debut of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood before covering the show’s hallmark characteristics—inclusivity, thoughtfulness, sincerity, and imagination. Cordell’s award winning pen and ink and watercolor illustration style is delightful for the story, and he carefully incorporates myriad details about Rogers’ and the Neighborhood, some of which are described in insightful endnotes. He also skillfully handles the narrative, keeping it at a level that will be appreciated and enjoyed by children (and adults) while also being informative, educational, and above all, inspiring—a fitting achievement for a life dedicated to uplifting others.

The verdict

“A heartfelt tribute to Mr. Rogers that is easy to read, informative, and wonderfully illustrated.”

Bookroo Editorial

Reviewed June 2020

5.9/7

For the grown-ups