(2) K-3 This authorized biography of Fred Rogers opens as did his iconic television program, with a stoplight flashing yellow, signaling that it is time to slow down and enjoy our surroundings. It's a fitting message for readers who met Mister Rogers as young visitors to his Neighborhood. Now fans can discover how he envisioned his television program, why he developed it, and the thinking behind the characters and settings. They can learn that what they may have considered a casual visit to The Neighborhood was carefully planned, covering events of discovery, joy, and sadness in children's lives. Cordell's loose pen, ink, and watercolor drawings reflect the leisurely pace of Rogers's speaking and writing styles, while the text is infused with gentle reminders of his philosophy. Quotes and song lyrics, all encouraging self-confidence and self-worth, appear throughout. Tidbits of information, such as the significance of the number 143, or the fact that Officer Clemmons was the first Black character to appear in a recurring role in a children's television series, remind readers that every aspect of the program was perceptively constructed. Appended with an extended biography, archival photographs, a note discussing the author-illustrator's admiration of Rogers, a picture glossary, and sources. A fine tribute to a fine man.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2020

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Matt Phelan. Reid presents a fictionalized (but sourced) story of young Fred Rogers. Although he has few friends growing up, Fred's grandfather and mother teach him that he is special and valued, and to "look for people who [are] helping" in order to calm worried feelings--all hallmarks of his later television show. Phelan's ability to depict, without sentimentalizing, the dual vulnerabilities and strengths of children reinforces the calm, straightforward story line. Bib.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2019

(4) 4-6 Revolutionary War Leaders series. The books in this series profile such individuals as Kosciuszko, whose engineering genius enabled the American army to safely retreat from Fort Ticonderoga, and Burgoyne, who underestimated the enemy. Illustrated with black-and-white and color reproductions, the text is also broken up by sometimes irrelevant sidebars. There are five other new books in this series. Bib., glos., ind. [Review covers these titles: Baron von Steuben, Molly Pitcher, George Rogers Clark, Thaddeus Kosciuszko, John Burgoyne.]

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Scott Goto. As they did with Annie Oakley in their book Shooting Star, Dadey and Goto once again craft a tall tale about a real person. The book's punchy humor and over-the-top acrylic and oil illustrations give the book plenty of pizzazz, but even after reading the book's appended historical note some may find the blend of fact and fiction confusing--and unnecessary.

Reviewer: Jackie C. Horne