Hello, Neighbor! It is a lovely day in the neighborhood. Or it was when Fred Rogers came on the scene. I think we could use some of Mr. R’s advice these days, but in leu of that, we can read a picture book biography of how it came to be.
Hello, Neighbor! The Kind and Caring Words of Mister Rogers is a great look into the world of Rogers. It is a longer picture book that hits on the highlights but leaves nothing out. It is a nice companion to Fred’s Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld and illustrated by Brigette Barrager. And while the two do have overlapping information, Matthew Cordell’s book takes on a new feeling and both have items the other does not.
Hello, Neighbor! brings back the feelings we had about the man as a child. His showing how crayons were made was as normal as him speaking of death. And as an adult, we can reflect on how things have changed. If you are a fan of Rogers, this is a must have for your collection. If you are looking for something different, this is also the book.
Hello, Neighbor! Has illustrations that lean towards the slightly unrealistic in the sense that you know who and what is there, but things are not “fleshed solidly” out. In many ways, they are fanciful. The colors are muted, but not dull. They have plenty of details and show characters that we all know and love, plus a few newer ones. I even was reminded of a few people/characters that I had forgotten about.
Hello, Neighbor! is a picture book, but one that’s for everyone. All ages can find something to enjoy.
