How To Be A Mensch: 57 Hugely Useful, Super-Important Skills to Learn Before You’re Grown Up by Catherine Newman, with illustrations by Debbie Fong; North Adams, Massachusetts: Storey Publishing; ISBN 9781635-864557; 144 pages; Free PJ OurWay.
SAN DIEGO – Hello, I think I’ve been transported back to 1955, when I was 10 years old. That’s not really my late mother calling, but it’s possible that author Catherine Newman has channeled her and other parents who tried to teach my generation the essence of being a good person, a mensch.
This book, laced with humor, lays out for pre- b’nai mitzvah students some lessons to remember as they go through life. Seven chapters include such topics as Other Beings (eg, pets, plants and people); Saying It Right (being polite); Dirty Things (how to clean); Cooking Is a Mitzvah (simple food preparation); You’re Wearing That? (Caring for your clothing); Your Two Cents (how to make, spend and donate money) and Useful Skills (tying knots, building campfires, and reading road maps among them.)
This book could very well be fun reading for elementary school students. Depending on their level of independence and maturity, I imagine some will consider a few of the lessons too basic to be worth serious attention. Others, however, may truly benefit.
Let’s take a look at how to take care of a pet. Newman informs readers that the Torah instructs us to feed our pets before we sit down to eat. So, she instructs, “remind yourself that animals are dependent on us to take care of them. It’s kind of a huge responsibility and we honor it by remembering to give them what they need. If it’s your job to give your lizard fresh water or take the dog for an afternoon walk, you can make a schedule for yourself or create a visual reminder. (Lots of animals will find ways to remind you, but some can’t.) If you are responsible for a particular chore — scooping the cat litter or changing the hamster’s bedding, say – be sure to do it, even if it’s gross. When you have a couple extra minutes in your day, brush your pet or play with them. They’ll love that!”
In another chapter, we learn how to make a phone call. “Identify yourself and explain why you’re calling,” Newman advises. An example of a proper way to start a phone call: “Hi, Mrs. Yakk. It’s Ellen from next door. My dog escaped into your yard again. Is it okay if I come over and get him?”
And here is “How to Perfectly Boil an Egg.” You put the egg in a small pot, cover it with an inch of water. Put the pot on the stove, turn the heat to high, bring the water to boil. “Then cover the pot, turn off the burner and let the eggs sit for exactly 10 minutes if you want the yolk firm but tender. Or try 8 minutes for a softer yolk or 12 minutes for a firmer one. Pour the eggs and water into the sink, then run cold water over them until they’re cool enough to touch. Roll each egg on the counter to crack it all over, then peel it. Make it yummier with salt, pepper, hot sauce, or cupcake sprinkles – then eat it!”
The book is filled with instructions such as these, all of which could be very helpful. The illustrations enhance the narrative..
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Donald H. Harrison is editor emeritus of San Diego Jewish World. He may be contacted via donald.harrison@sdjewishworld.com