You Are My Friend

A heartwarming picture book from writer Aimee Reid and award-winning illustrator Matt Phelan that celebrates the work of Mister Rogers and carries on his legacy of kindness.

Mister Rogers is one of the most beloved television personalities, but before he was the man who brought us Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, he was just little Freddie Rogers. Though he was often sick and had trouble making friends as a child, his mom and grandfather encouraged him to ask for help and explore the world. With their support, he learned how to better say what he was feeling and see the beauty around him. As he grew up, he realized he could spread the message of compassion, equality, and kindness through television.

You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood is a gentle homage to Fred Rogers and shows how his simple message still resonates with us today: “There’s no person in the world like you and I like you just the way you are.” The book includes a short biography of Fred’s life and a bibliography.

This is a work of fiction. This book is an expression of admiration of Fred Rogers, the man and the artist, by the author and illustrator. This book is not associated with or endorsed by The Fred Rogers Company.

“Writing with simplicity, emotional clarity, and a sense of purpose, Reid tells Fred Rogers’ story in a meaningful, sometimes moving way. Phelan’s fluid pencil-and-watercolor artwork brings that story to life on the page . . . A beautifully crafted, heartfelt picture-book biography.” —Booklist