Officer Clemmons is not just another Mister Rogers story. It's a story of race, sexuality, overcoming the odds, and love. Clemmons' story will make you believe in the power of good despite all of the bad we face in this life.

François Clemmons, born during the Jim Crow era, had a grandmother who remembered the days of slavery, at least the times when white men "worrying" black women was a fact of life. Even though his family moved to Ohio in search of a more stable existence, the attitudes in Youngstown were not much better than deep south, especially if he ventured outside zones of safety. Blessed with a God-given singing voice, François determined early on that that was where his destiny lay. Despite being best known for his appearances in the Neighborhood of Fred Rogers, Dr. Clemmons has continued with an illustrious career and multiple degrees in his beloved field of music.

But it is the character of Fred Rogers that gives him his strength and confidence, who encourages him to follow his dreams, a friendship and mentor-like relationship that spanned 30 years, that gives him his strength and confidence, and encourages him to follow his dreams. It was no accident that barriers were broken and the character of Officer Clemmons was created. Fred Rogers knew what he was doing. François is most generous with details of his life, his accomplishments. Those who remember him fondly from those decades as a visitor to Mr. Rogers' home, will have those feelings rekindled.

This book was received as an ARC from Catapult in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

I was a fan of Mr. Roger's Neighborhood and remember the character of Officer Clemmons and how he and Fred just got along and were so happy with each other that it made the whole show come to life. I knew I had to jump at the chance to read this book because of all the memories that came to light from watching the show. It also was interesting to hear the upbringing of Francois and learning about the road he got to meet Fred and how he not only landed the role in the show but how that sprung into a lifelong friendship and mentor-ship that will last him an entire lifetime. I know a lot of people will be on the lookout for this book once it is released and I can't wait to hear their reactions.

We will consider adding this title to our Biography collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.