Fred’s Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers

Who can imagine Mister Rogers as anything other than the affable host from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood? Can you believe he was once a shy child who had trouble making friends? It’s true, boys and girls. Freddy Rogers was once a very lonely boy who had asthma and was teased about his weight. He found solace in playing the piano, which helped him express his sadness and anger. But it was his Grandfather McFeely who helped him the most, telling Freddy, “I happen to like you just the way you are.” Fred eventually found friends and the confidence to become a leader. He was determined to give others those positive feelings, too, through a new platform called television. Fred created Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and even named one of the characters after his grandfather: Mr. McFeely, the speedy delivery man. Fred created a world of make-believe to help children understand their very real feelings, and he didn’t shy away from addressing them all.

Laura Renauld’s Fred’s Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers, shines a spotlight on Mister Rogers for a new generation. After more than thirty years and nearly nine hundred episodes, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood is an amazing accomplishment from a man who taught children how to express their feelings in healthy ways. With the richly colored illustrations of Brigette Barrager, Mister Rogers comes alive again and fills up the reader’s heart with his message of love and compassion.