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's invitation, the two became unlikely friends, a deep and abiding relationship that lasted until Rogers's 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 life-threatening depression and the tragic death of a sibling and helped him heal his difficult relationship with his father.
I'm Proud of You reveals Fred Rogers as a person who deserves a place among history's greatest people. It chronicles male friendship at its finest and most powerful. And it is a book that has already brought hope and inspiration to many thousands of its readers. With this second edition, including a new afterword by the author, the inspiration continues.
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"I am so glad that I stumbled upon this little book while at the library. I thought that it would be a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. I wasn't prepared for the deeply moving and thought provoking moments so lovingly written. Fred Rogers was truly one of the unique people of the world that had no desire to be like "everyone else" but to be his best self and loving and uplifting all those within his sphere of influence. Tim Madigan, the author, skillfully and genuinely opens his heart about his experiences and friendship with Mr. Rogers in such a way that I frequently had to stop and wonder, "Do I have a friend such as this?" This is a wonderful book. No, it is not a "page-turner". It is one that I wanted to read slowly, ponder, and apply."
— Julie (4 out of 5 stars)
" I absolutely loved this book! "
— Laura, 2/20/2014" This is a lovely book, insightful, not just about the amazing Fred Rogers, but also about the author, who was befriended and in the process, healed by Fred's amazing kindess and generosity of spirit. That shines through, as does the author's journalistic skill at evoking one of the true legends of the twentieth century. "
— Fred, 1/17/2014" Mr. Rogers should be sainted. This, however, does not make for exciting reading. I didn't get far with this book. "
— Gail, 1/12/2014" Moving and convicting a wonderful book. "
— Matt, 1/5/2014" A fabulous look into the man who shaped generations. Highly recommended for all people who need to see the power of kindness. "
— AnnieM, 1/4/2014" this book made me cry. "
— Mary, 12/8/2013" What a heartwarming story! This book made me want to be a better person and a better friend. Definitely worth reading. "
— Misty, 10/27/2013" This book makes me appreciate Mr. Rogers even more. I really liked seeing how he interacted with the author on a personal level. Loved it. "
— Jessica, 10/18/2013" Even though I did enjoy this book once in a while I wondered if it was creepy. "
— Sandy, 10/15/2013" After being given this book, I was a bit skeptical about how interesting a story about Fred (aka Mr.) Rogers would be. After finishing it, I not only enjoyed it, but found Fred Rogers to be strong, encouraging, and very real person. I highly recommend this book to EVERYONE. "
— Jim, 8/20/2013" It was so moving I read it with a towel by my side, tissues didn't do it. "
— Sleighsgame, 1/17/2013" I bought this book after watching a documentary about Fred Rogers. It was very inspiring and a great read. Be prepared to cry! "
— Iluvgus, 10/12/2012" I wish I had Mr. Rogers for a friend. "
— Ralone, 9/19/2012" I enjoyed reading this book and have always liked and admired Mister Rogers. But, I thought the book made him seem perfect, almost a Jesus figure. "
— Anita, 6/24/2012" This book reminded me of Tuesdays With Morrie. Very sweet. I had a lump in my throat for most of it and outright cried several times. "
— Molly, 6/6/2012" I love Mister Rodgers, and it turns out, the real Mr. Rodgers was just as amazing. This has become one of my favorite books, and has truly changed me somewhere deep inside. "
— Meredith, 6/1/2012" As most memoirs go it is a bit of a ramble. However, I did see through the life of the journalist to the fact that Mr. Rogers was truly an amazing man. Someday I will have to read a biography about him (Mr. Rogers). A man who understood the word charity (as in the true love of Christ). "
— Shenek, 2/5/2012" I think it's great, but I'm biased. I wrote it. "
— Tim, 2/4/2012" A very encouraging look at an influential life. I just want to be like Mister Rogers. "
— Denise, 1/15/2012" Really was a tear jerker. Made me wish I was friends with not only Mr. Rogers but also with Tim! Also makes you think about the value of your relationships. <br/> "
— Karin, 5/9/2011" made me cry a million different times "
— Geoff, 3/4/2011" I'm not a fan of overtly emotional books. I wanted to hear more about Mr Rogers and less man whining. "
— Emily, 2/19/2011" A wonderful sweet story, I enjoyed the new perspective on Mr. Rogers and the way the two men supported each other in life and death. "
— Lezlee, 2/3/2011" I already idolize this guy for what he represents in children's education. I don't typically read memoir-type things like this, but my friend who DOES, he hit on a winner with this one. It's a very moving read. "
— Aaron, 12/31/2010" Mister Rogers is a great role model. Everyone should read this book! "
— Mr., 11/29/2010" I grew to love and respect Mr. Rogers through his Neighborhood and what I read about him. This little book broadened my admiration. "
— Kathy, 10/13/2010" Gives good insight to Fred Rogers and T. Madigan is a great writer. I thought it got a bit too long, though. "
— Becky, 9/10/2010" A heartwarming and touching story of an unusual friendship between a journalist and the legendary Mr. Rogers. "
— Lisa, 8/12/2010" I learned about the power of forgiveness and how to be kind to yourself. Mr. Rogers was a special person, indeed. How lucky Tim was to have called him friend. "
— Mitzi, 8/1/2010" This book reminded me of Tuesdays With Morrie. Very sweet. I had a lump in my throat for most of it and outright cried several times. "
— Molly, 8/1/2010" How cool would it have been to actually know Mr Rogers? There are very few people to touch so many children's lives as viewing Mr Rogers and his television show. This book explores a friendship between the author and "Fred" and his family. <br/> <br/> "
— Sandra, 7/6/2010" I'm re-reading this classic. A lovely book about male mentorship and friendship, through shared experiences of grief, loss, recovery and hope. "
— Moira, 6/3/2010" After reading this book slowly, I found myself unable to set it down for the last 1/3 of the pages. The genuine truths and spiritual tone brought me to tears throughout the end of the book. It is a great story and brings the spirit and nature of a wonderful man. "
— Rusty, 3/11/2010Sean Runnette, an Earphones Award–winning narrator, has also directed and produced more than two hundred audiobooks, including several Audie Award winners. He is a member of the American Repertory Theater company and has toured the United States and internationally with ART and Mabou Mines. His television and film appearances include Two If by Sea, Cop Land, Sex and the City, Law & Order, the award-winning film Easter, and numerous commercials.