1,000 Mitzvahs

September 1, 2011

In her debut, Cohen recounts her experiences performing a variety of good deeds.

The author commenced her plan to carry out 1,000 mitzvahs, or acts of kindness, as a way of honoring her late father's memory and coping with her loss. While the traditional meaning of the word "mitzvah" alludes to "statements and principles of Jewish law and ethics contained in the Torah," Cohen writes from a secular standpoint, inviting readers of all faiths to embrace an altruistic approach to life. An active wife and mother of two, the author demonstrates that performing acts of kindness does not require excessive time or money, and the rewards for the giver and receiver are priceless. Organized categorically rather than by sequence of events, Cohen shares details of mitzvahs she's bestowed upon a variety of recipients, including charity organizations, pets, those in mourning and the environment. Her preludes to each category of mitzvahs provide thoughtful perspectives on life. However, because her mitzvahs are grouped by common theme, Cohen's anecdotes at times can blend together without distinction. On other occasions, the author takes herself a bit too seriously, describing a lighthearted mitzvah such as replacing toilet paper in a public bathroom as an act that can "prevent another person from having to experience this extremely vulnerable and helpless situation."

An endearing reminder that small gestures can often go a long way.

(COPYRIGHT (2011) KIRKUS REVIEWS/NIELSEN BUSINESS MEDIA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)

October 15, 2011
When Cohen's father died, she decided to take a spiritual sabbatical to mourn and honor his memory. The form she chose was performing one thousand mitzvahs (in the Jewish religion, acts of charity and kindness), and she started a blog to share her project. Here, she has organized the mitzvahs by type to help others who may wish to embark on similar projects of their own. They include food (donating to food banks, cooking a meal for someone who needs help), donating money, recycling, taking the time to acknowledge and listen to others, and sending thank-you cards and notes. The book includes a bibliography of books on performing mitzvahs and death and mourning and a list of organizations in need of help. A useful resource for anyone, no matter his or her spiritual beliefs, who is looking for ways to help others.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)