Lets Talk About It: Extraordinary Friends »

When parents remarry, children face some hard changes. Suddenly part of a new family, they may feel displaced and worried. There are new rules that take getting used to. If there are new siblings, the oldest child may suddenly be the youngest, and a child who once had his or her own room may have to share a room. In face, they may have to learn to share a lot more things -- and people! The biggest question children in stepfamilies seem to have is: "Where is my place in this family?"

In his characteristically gentle way, Fred Rogers writes that children can play a part in working our their new place in the family be learning to express their concerns and feelings. He emphasizes that all the members of the family may have the same concerns and worries. He reminds children that a stepfamily may bring new people into their lives who will love and care for them, and who will share new good times with them.

For all children who have a new family, this book can help them understand how to find their place.

Parent Council Reviews

I remember as a child I had a fear of seeing a handicapped person. I didn't know what to do or say, because I had not been prepared. Mr. Rogers knows that fear exists. In this book he confronts the awkwardness and relates how six children become extraordinary friends. Part of the "Let's Talk About It Series" series. 2000, Puffin Books, $6.99. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: J. Bauman SOURCE: Parent Council Volume 8