The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers

In a 30 year plus career Fred Rogers provided iconic weekly TV shows that connected with millions of American children and their parents . He received countless awards , has had a comet named after him, his influence and his foundation continue to inspire broadcasters and educationalists and Tom Hanks starred in a distinguished 2019 biography. Until then I suspect very few of us in the UK had heard of him. This is a remarkable book about an even more remarkable man . King charts you through his Pennsylvania privileged roots and education through to his career in broadcasting and the influence of his faith and an unswerving commitment to make a positive contribution to the emotional well being of pre school children via what was the new medium of television. Even as something of an outsider I was gripped by the characters in Fred’s life and the pioneering early years of television and an approach that contrasts to the crass commercially driven broadcasting that children are subjected to today. The book is a tribute but acknowledges Rogers flaws and failures , but through some excellent research and priceless contributions it appears to do justice to a unique individual . I found myself developing a real emotional investment in Fred Rogers - and wanted him to ‘ be my friend’, such was the quality of this narrative.

An excellent and detailed account of Fred’s life and career, but sadly not that engaging and definitely needed more actual quotes from Fred, who is sadly mostly silent throughout the book. Too many facts, not enough Fred.

Content is fine but Burton's sing-song delivery often conflicts with a common-sense reading.