They were qualities that captivated children and their parents”. “ Fred’s willingness, as a producer and a person, to embrace quiet, inactivity, empty space – and his calm demeanour were completely unexpected in television in the 1970s. Watching Mr Rogers, you instantly want to be his neighbour – no matter whether you are five or ninety-five years old. He was one of the first to recognise that children do not want to be talked down upon nor they like to feel inferior – they want honesty they are eager to learn they desire to have an adult as their friend, and they wish to be loved, respected and valued for who they are. More than that, Fred Rogers wanted you to be better and to succeed. He believed in what he did, and his passion and good intention came through the screen and reached his viewers. Growing up, my TV was all Tom & Jerry, Chilly Willy… The Terminator, Child’s Play…only joking, but maybe close! Fred Rogers, on the other hand, had the ability to disarm you with simplicity and sincerity that is now rarely seen in the world, let alone on television. When I first watched Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood out of curiosity I was spellbound – I never thought television could be of this kind – even children’s television – so unpretentious, relaxing, comforting, but at the same time educational, making you a better person.
I did not grow up with Fred Rogers and his television – but I wish I did. Fred Rogers’ life is a life worth knowing. The Good Neighbour is a book to read because Fred Rogers was one of those people whose efforts and commitments should never be forgotten.
From Rogers’ childhood to his last TV appearance, the biography touches on many aspects of his life, including Rogers’ unparalleled-on-television authenticity, his commitment to child development, and his love for music and swimming. Unassuming, humble and even shy, but with captivating presence, Rogers hence revolutionised children’s day-time television in the US, believing that television can be uplifting, fun and educational for everyone. Always championing children’s rights and their needs, Rogers has always been known for valuing each viewer “ just the way they are” and a child was truly someone who mattered on his television. Fred Rogers was more than just a presenter, his show was more than just one’s usual children’s programme, and, hence, this biography is so much more than a book about one celebrity. T his comprehensive biography talks about the life of an American icon – Fred Rogers (1928 – 2003), the man behind the famous American television show for children Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood (1962 – 2001).
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