The Horn Book Guide

PICTURE BOOKS

Reid, Aimee

You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood

40 pp. | Abrams | August, 2019 | Trade ISBN 978-1-4197-3617-9 $17.99

(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