The friendliest monsters you ever saw inhabit the pagesof this lively picture book, a story that simultaneously teachesyoung children how to be fine, upstanding people and offers numerous examplesof the Yiddish word mensch--in the language of the book, an "honorable"and "kind" person. While each monster portrays a characteristic ofa mensch, the author reminds children that being one isn't always easy;it can be quite a challenge on many occasions to do the right thing, butwhen you do it, you "feel ten feet tall." Children will identify withthese thoughtful, colorful creatures who are each different, some withbright colors, each with various numbers of eyes and heads, but all workinghard at being good and helpful. They share with others, respect their parentsand teachers, sneeze into elbows or tissues, and help their families preparefor Shabbat. This cheery book features joy, courtesy, and care for othersin a fun and lighthearted way . It can be used by parents and teachersto support social skills without presenting even a hint of didacticor heavy teaching. ---Michal Malen, THE JEWISH BOOK COUNCIL In this delightful and perky picture book directed to youngreaders and families, the main character and narrator, A. Monster, givesreaders direct advice for how to be a mensch.
The humorous text speaks directlyto the reader. "It's hard to believe, but some people are afraid of monsters. It's true that monsters can look scary. But most of us are kind and helpful. Monsters can even be mensches!" I love funny books! Our kids deserve to laugh--even as they grapple withchallenges of the world. On each spread, readers will love the monster-specific examples (like notstaring, with one eye or five) as well as general concepts, like sharing andcaring and preparing for Shabbat. Yoshikawa's illustrations amp up the humor. Young readers are going to lovechecking out the menschy monsters on every page.
The book ends with a question directly for young readers: "What kind ofmensch will you be?" This will certainly start conversations for families.When it comes to our world today, what could be more important than figuringout how to be a mensch? This may book may seem like a fun romp with monsters, but it speaks to the responsibilities we all share without gettingdidactic. Leslie Kimmelman and A. Monster are right: Even the smallest acts ofkindness can make a difference! How To Be A Mensch is recommended for families introducing young childrento the idea of social action and repairing the world. It is a cute and funnybook with strong Jewish values . --Sarah Aronson, THE SYDNEY TAYLOR SHMOOZE.