Category: Non-Fiction

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

    by Aimee Reid, illustrated by Matt Phelan

    40 pages, 5-8 years; published 2019 by Abrams Books for Young Readers

    Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was a favorite of mine growing up. I loved the warm way he talked to the camera, and I enjoyed learning new things from his special guests. Aimee Reid’s book, You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood has the same warm vibe. It’s thoughtfully written and shares several facts about Mr. Rogers that readers may be surprised to know. Matt Phelan’s wonderful water color illustrations reinforce the gentle, nurturing tone of the story. Back matter gives additional details into Fred Rogers’ career path and provides more resources to explore. After reading this picture book, kids and adults will come away with a greater understanding of what made Mr. Rogers so special.

  • A Green Place To Be: The Creation of Central Park

    A Green Place To Be

    written & illustrated by Ashley Benham Yazdani

    40 pages, 7-10 years; published 2019 by Candlewick Press

    Ashley Benham Yazdani paints whimsical depictions of Central Park in her fabulous debut picture book, A Green Place to Be: The Creation of Central Park. Her detailed illustrations allow for new discoveries on subsequent readings. Kids will learn about Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, the park creators, but they will also learn the value of giving your all. Olmstead and Vaux go from uncertainly about even entering the city park contest, to rising to the top of the entrees. Not only did their winning design lead to the creation of an amazing park for the citizens of New York City, but it lead to future parks across America. 

  • Before She Was Harriet

    Before She Was Harriet

    written by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome

    32 pages, 4–8 years; published 2017 by Holiday House

    Some picture books make you gasp. Before She Was Harriet is one of them. The exquisite paintings on each page hold your eyes as strongly as the words resonate in your ears. What a brilliant way to reflect on the life of Harriet Tubman by traveling backward through her life. Children will be captivated by the expressive portraits and intrigued by the various names and skills held by this remarkable woman. I quickly added a copy to my personal library.