Fans pick 100 books like A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

By Fred Rogers, Luke Flowers (illustrator),

Here are 100 books that A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood fans have personally recommended if you like A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Peaceful Neighbor

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why did Tim love this book?

This book is, hands down, my favorite title I’ve read when it comes to the life and career of Fred Rogers. Long provides an amazing insight into the truly selfless love that Fred Rogers showed toward everyone he encountered.

The main reason for my interest in Fred’s work is the ways in which he often bucked tradition and societal expectations in order to focus on the value and uniqueness of all individuals. Michael Long provides a look at Fred Rogers, of which most people are unaware.

By Michael G. Long,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Peaceful Neighbor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Fred Rogers was one of the most radical pacifists of contemporary history. We do not usually think of him as radical, partly because he wore colorful, soft sweaters made by his mother. Nor do we usually imagine him as a pacifist; that adjective seems way too political to describe the host of a children's program known for its focus on feelings. We have restricted Fred Rogers to the realm of entertainment, children, and feelings, and we've ripped him out of his political and religious context. Rogers was an ordained Presbyterian minister, and although he rarely shared his religious convictions on…


Book cover of Officer Clemmons

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why did Tim love this book?

While readers may remember Officer Clemmons from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, the life experiences of Francois Clemmons were so far removed from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe.

Clemmons shares this memoir filled with raw emotion and unimaginable obstacles–especially when considering the historical context of the times he recalls. I’m truly inspired by Francois Clemmons, his joyful presence, and the gripping story of his life.  

By François S. Clemmons,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Officer Clemmons as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

An intimate debut memoir from Mister Rogers’ most endearing and groundbreaking neighbors—Officer Clemmons, the first African American actor to have a recurring role on a children’s television program.

“A heartwarming story that explores the power of friendship as well as race, sexuality, talent, and identity.” —Kirkus Reviews

When he created the role of Officer Clemmons on the award–winning television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, François Clemmons made history as the first African American actor to have a recurring role on a children’s program. A new, wide world opened for Clemmons—but one that also required him to make painful personal choices and…


Book cover of The Good Neighbor

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why did Tim love this book?

I’ve read many biographies of Fred Rogers of varying depth and quality. Some or nothing more than basic information that could be gleaned from a visit to the Wikipedia page about Fred while others are personal and heartwarming accounts of the ways in which Fred impacted the life of the author.

This is the most comprehensive and thorough look at the life of Fred Rogers available in print. I turn to this book often for biographical information about Fred that requires a look beyond a surface level.

By Maxwell King,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Good Neighbor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

New York Times bestseller
2018 Goodreads Choice Award Winner for History & Biography

Fred Rogers (1928-2003) was an enormously influential figure in the history of television and in the lives of tens of millions of children. As the creator and star of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, he was a champion of compassion, equality, and kindness. Rogers was fiercely devoted to children and to taking their fears, concerns, and questions about the world seriously.

The Good Neighbor, the first full-length biography of Fred Rogers, tells the story of this utterly unique and enduring American icon. Drawing on original interviews, oral histories, and…


Book cover of I'm Proud of You

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why did Tim love this book?

When I first started to research the life and work of Fred Rogers, I was almost immediately faced with the realization that he was so much more than just the host of a children’s television program.

This is one of the first accounts I recall coming across that shared details of a personal relationship with Fred and the indescribable impact he had on the author. Tim Madigan is one of the countless people whose lives were changed by knowing Fred Rogers and his book was the first to confirm for me the depths to which a friendship with Fred could impact a person’s heart and soul.

By Tim Madigan,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I'm Proud of You as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 14, 15, 16, and 17.

What is this book about?

It began as another newspaper assignment, a celebrity profile of the children’s television icon. But in Fred Rogers, Texas journalist Tim Madigan found more than a fascinating subject. From their first meeting in 1995, at Rogers’ invitation, the two became unlikely friends, a deep and abiding relationship that lasted until Rogers’ death in 2003.In that time, Madigan found Rogers to be much more than the calm and compassionate personality of television. He was a person of unique human greatness who embodied love, compassion and wisdom his every waking moment. He was the transcendent being who guided Madigan through periods of…


Book cover of Daniel Has an Allergy

Andrea Pyros Author Of My Year of Epic Rock

From my list on food allergies.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a kidlit author myself. I’ve written two middle-grade novels, one of which is all about having a food allergy, but my interest in food allergies is all due to my first kid. Amelia was born with multiple allergies to common ingredients like eggs and dairy. At first it was hard! Figuring out how to cook for her at home and keep her safe when she was in school or at a friend’s house felt daunting and frightening, so we turned to books for advice, recipes, and education for the entire family. Even if your reader isn’t the one with allergies, they’ve no doubt got a classmate or family member who does. 

Andrea's book list on food allergies

Andrea Pyros Why did Andrea love this book?

Little kids who are already familiar with Daniel from the beloved Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood animated television series will be drawn to this story, whether or not they themselves have a food allergy. Daniel eats a peach and discovers he’s allergic to the fruit, but with some help from his dad and his awesome doctor, Daniel learns he can take care of himself no matter where he is.  

By Angela C. Santomero, Jason Fruchter (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Daniel Has an Allergy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

A new generation of children love Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, inspired by the classic series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood!

Daniel Tiger learns how to manage a food allergy in this helpful 8x8 storybook based on an episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.

When Daniel eats a peach for the first time, he learns that he is allergic to the fruit. Thankfully, Dad and Doctor Anna take care of him. Daniel learns how he can take care of his allergy—even at school! A wonderful story for children with food allergies or for those who know someone with them.

© 2017 The Fred Rogers Company


Book cover of Daniel's Potty Time

Christie Griffin Authier Author Of The Poopy Pants Dance

From my list on children’s stories about going potty.

Why am I passionate about this?

It doesn’t matter that I’m a former journalist who has also most recently worked at Sesame Workshop (yes, that Elmo!) and Mattel (Fisher-Price, Barbie, Thomas & Friends, etc). When my kiddo shouts, “Mommy! I need a bum bum wipe!” my duty is to get to that doodie ASAP. Ah, parenthood...is there anything more humbling? Someday, my kids might think it’s cool that I wrote for old-school magazines (!) and interviewed celebrities (!!) and lived in NYC for 15 years (!!!). But for now, I’m proud I get to read my silly little children’s book to them any time they ask. Or any book for that matter because books are magic!

Christie's book list on children’s stories about going potty

Christie Griffin Authier Why did Christie love this book?

Getting your child to go potty before leaving the house will be an ongoing battle long after the potty training days are over. I used to say things like, “If you don’t try to go potty, then I’ll have to take away your unicorn stuffie!” Now I say, “Let’s try to go potty like Daniel Tiger does before he goes anywhere.” The book is based on an episode, complete with sing-songy lyrics—and it just works. Ugga mugga!

By Alexandra Cassel Schwartz, Jason Fruchter (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Daniel's Potty Time as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

A new generation of children love Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, inspired by the classic series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood!

Daniel Tiger goes to the potty in this relatable 8x8 storybook based on an episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. This book comes with a double-sided poster that little ones can hang up in the bathroom!

Do you have to go potty? Maybe yes? Maybe no? Why don’t you sit and try to go?

Daniel is so excited to go to the market that he insists he doesn’t need to go potty. But then he learns that it’s important to try to go before…


Book cover of Big Brother Daniel

Serene Chia Author Of I Love My Little Brother

From my list on preparing older child for new baby.

Why am I passionate about this?

I started writing children's books to connect more with my daughter. When she was born, I struggled to bond with her because I felt like I had lost part of who I was. My husband reminded me how important it was to build a strong bond with her, so I began spending more one-on-one time with her. Our favorite activity was looking for the moon together, which led to my first book, "Mommy, Mommy, Where Is The Moon?". When my son came along, I made sure my daughter knew she was still loved, promising our special time together wouldn't stop and she would always be my first baby.

Serene's book list on preparing older child for new baby

Serene Chia Why did Serene love this book?

I loved that this book tells the story of him introducing his new baby sister, Margaret, to the reader. It also focuses on how Daniel can be a big helper in the family in an easy and relatable way.

The book also mentions the importance of special time with just Mom and Dad, which assures the older sibling that he or she is not forgotten and still loved. 

By Angela C Santomero, Jason Fruchter (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Big Brother Daniel as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

A new generation of children love Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, inspired by the classic series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood!

Daniel Tiger is learning to be a good big brother to Baby Margaret in this sweet shaped board book, based on a very special episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood!

Daniel Tiger is so happy: He’s just gotten a new baby sister! Baby Margaret is very little, and she needs lots of care from Mom and Dad. But not to worry, big brother Daniel is here to help!

This adorable story is perfect for little ones who are about to become big brothers or…


Book cover of Selling From The Heart: How Your Authentic Self Sells You!

Dave Kurlan Author Of Baseline Selling: How to Become a Sales Superstar by Using What You Already Know about the Game of Baseball

From my list on to become a sales superstar.

Why am I passionate about this?

I've been selling professionally since 1973, and in the sales training and development business for more than 36 years. I founded Objective Management Group, the world’s leading provider of sales force evaluations and sales candidate assessments, and we have data on 2.2 million salespeople. OMG measures 21 Sales Core Competencies, so that’s around 250 findings on 2.2 million salespeople or close to 500 million data points! I've personally trained and coached tens of thousands of salespeople, sales managers, and sales leaders and I have published nearly 2,000 articles on my multi-award-winning blog, Understanding the Sales Force. I was installed in the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in 2013. 

Dave's book list on to become a sales superstar

Dave Kurlan Why did Dave love this book?

Larry Levine has written one of the only sales books on how to be authentic when selling and his book resonates with people who don’t want to sound like a salesperson. But there is so much more to Larry’s book than permission and instructions on being true to yourself. Larry’s personal experiences are a big part of the book and you’ll want to read the stories that Larry shares because they truly resonate!

By Larry Levine,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Selling From The Heart as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Sales have changed in the last 30 years. Gone are the days of manipulative and pushy salespeople who rely on charm to get sales. Selling From The Heart is the new economy where relationships matter and old-school techniques just don’t work anymore. Relationships are what will fuel your sales funnel and allow you to reach your sales goals. Social media is a great place to develop those relationships that lead to sales and Larry teaches you how to do in a natural way. Let Larry Levine show you how not to only be yourself, but your best self and succeed!…


Book cover of Fattily Ever After: A Black Fat Girl's Guide to Living Life Unapologetically

Clarkisha Kent Author Of Fat Off, Fat On: A Big Bitch Manifesto

From my list on to help you kill your inner fatphobe.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a queer, fat disabled Black woman in America, I am all too familiar with the experiences and history that these 5 aforementioned authors detail when it comes how deep fatphobia is embedded in this country. And how it harms us everyday—even if you’re not fat. I remain passionate about the eradication of fatphobia in our society because too much is at stake in terms of housing discrimination, employment discrimination, disability discrimination, healthcare discrimination and etc. for one not to care. - Clarkisha Kent, author and culture critic.

Clarkisha's book list on to help you kill your inner fatphobe

Clarkisha Kent Why did Clarkisha love this book?

Yeboah is my favorite in this genre because she really nails the perils of dating as a fat Black woman during these modern times.

What we have to go through (fetishization, degradation, etc., etc.) is so ridiculous and she is able to speak to this in a way that is [sadly] honest, but still a bit humorous. Which is hard to do.

By Stephanie Yeboah,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Fattily Ever After as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'I love Stephanie... She's one of my favourite truth tellers online, she pulls no punches and empowers so many women with her own commitment to equality... This book is going to mean a lot, to a lot of people.' - Jameela Jamil

Stephanie Yeboah has experienced racism and fat-phobia throughout her life. From being bullied at school to being objectified and humiliated in her dating life, Stephanie's response to discrimination has always been to change the narrative around body-image and what we see as beautiful.

In her debut book, Fattily Ever After, Stephanie speaks openly and courageously about her own…


Book cover of Magnificent Homespun Brown: A Celebration

Patrice Gopo Author Of All the Places We Call Home

From my list on celebrating stories of home, identity, and belonging.

Why am I passionate about this?

As the Black American daughter of Jamaican immigrants born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, I love stories that depict the beauty of being multifaceted human beings. Stories steeped in broad understandings of place and home. Stories that encourage us to delight in being the people we are. I also believe our children are natural poets and storytellers. Lyrical picture books filled with rich language and sensory details encourage the thriving of such creativity. In addition to writing All the Places We Call Home, I'm the author of All the Colors We Will See, an essay collection about race, immigration, and belonging. 

Patrice's book list on celebrating stories of home, identity, and belonging

Patrice Gopo Why did Patrice love this book?

Oh my, oh my, oh my!!! What a celebration indeed!! Such gorgeous, lyrical language. And the illustrations—often connected to the seasons—are vibrant and alive. This story is a poem that encourages a child to celebrate the people they come from and the color they are. I love how the specific words, the soothing alliteration, and the connections with nature and family invite us to read further. And the descriptions of the color brown sing. Finally, as someone who spent a childhood hiking trails and connecting with the outdoors, one of my favorite spreads is where the father and daughter take a mountain hike. We do not see enough brown families spending time in nature in children’s books. What a joy to see this representation. 

By Samara Cole Doyon, Kaylani Juanita (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Magnificent Homespun Brown as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

Magnificent Homespun Brown is an exploration of the natural world and family bonds through the eyes of young, mixed raced heroines-a living, breathing, dazzlingly multi-faceted, exuberant masterpiece, firmly grounded in a sense of self-worth and belonging. This is a story-a poem, a song, a celebration- about feeling at home in one's own beloved skin.

If Walt Whitman were reborn as a young woman of colour, this is the book he might write. With vivid illustrations by Kaylani Juanita, Samara Cole Doyon sings a carol for the plenitude that surrounds us and the self each of us is meant to inhabit.


Book cover of Peaceful Neighbor
Book cover of Officer Clemmons
Book cover of The Good Neighbor

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