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.