Book Review: A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood by Fred Rogers and Luke Flowers

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood:  The Poetry of Mister Rogers
With Lyrics by Fred Rogers and Illustrations by Luke Flowers
From Miss Jennie at Ontario Branch

April is National Poetry Month, and what better way to celebrate, than by spotlighting a new book of songs and poems by America’s favorite neighbor, Mister Rogers.  For over 30 years, Fred Rogers created, produced and hosted Mister Roger’s Neighborhood, a weekly educational children’s television program.   As a musician, puppeteer and writer, Mister Rogers used his knowledge of child development to teach values to children.  Each week, he instilled in children his belief that every child is special, every child is loved and every child has worth. 

This book contains 75 of his songs and poems, many of them beautifully illustrated.  Through his original works, Mister Rogers touched on a wide variety of childhood topics.  Focusing on kindness, compassion, self-esteem and learning; he explored universal topics like feelings, families and imagination.  He assures children that it’s okay to feel the ways that they do.  Fear, joy, love, hope, loneliness and bravery are just some of the emotions that Mister Rogers writes about.  Uplifting, honest and truthful, these poems reassure kids; letting them know that they are special; that they matter and that they are loved just the way they are.