Mister Rogers' Gift of Music

(Hardback)

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Description

For a young Fred Rogers, music was a gift. It eased the pain of childhood illness and bullying and helped Fred express how he felt when words alone were difficult. As an adult, he gifted his melodies to the world, showing children by example that they can express themselves, cope with negative feelings, and connect to each other through music. This sensitive, life-affirming biography not only portrays the life of this beloved TV personality, but focuses on Fred's most memorable songs and musical TV moments, and captures the enduring magic of his music in brilliantly colorful abstract illustration. Readers will not only learn about what music meant to Fred Rogers, but find the encouragement and inspiration to brighten their own lives with song.

Reviews

"Young fans will be tickled by the familiar lyrics and swirling colors, and their grownups will delight in gentle nostalgia. An affectionate tribute to both the remarkable man and his musical legacy." -- Booklist, starred review

"The illustrations [...] bring readers into the world of Mister Rogers and his neighborhood of imagination with love and care. The characters, puppets and humans alike, are immediately recognizable and remarkably detailed and accurate. Music shines through the pages [...]" --School Library Journal

"Visceral text and illustrations relay the songwriting inspirations of Fred Rogers (1983-2003) while spotlighting music's unifying power." --Publishers Weekly

Author Bio

Donna Cangelosi is a child psychologist who, much like Mister Rogers, spends her days working with children to help them understand and process their feelings. She was born in New Jersey and lives there today. In her free time, Donna reads biographies, visits museums, and does yoga. This is her debut picture book.