It all started with some berries...

In this version of paying it forward, one good deed leads to another as people in a multicultural neighborhood, including a Jewish family, change the life of the community. The author lets her characters make her point (the world is a much better place when people are kind), only introducing the Jewish term for this behavior - mitzvot - at the end of the story. Melmon's upbeat illustrations are similarly nondenominational and will help listeners visualize the story's key elements.

Review

"This is a good read-aloud for young children, as the art is benign and the text includes a pleasing repetition of reactions from neighbors, who are always 'surprised' and 'delighted' by the kindness bestowed upon them. Another positive touch: the succinct back story about the derivation of the word 'mitzvah.' A sweet plug for random acts of kindness."—Booklist Online

"This is a good read-aloud for young children, as the art is benign and the text includes a pleasing repetition of reactions from neighbors, who are always 'surprised' and 'delighted' by the kindness bestowed upon them. Another positive touch: the succinct back story about the derivation of the word 'mitzvah.' A sweet plug for random acts of kindness."—Kirkus Reviews