May 15, 2009
This uplifting compilation presents 100-plus ideas for doing good works on a tight schedule. Tenzer, founder of DoOneNiceThing.com, bases chapters on the recipients of the good deeds, such as children and the planet; her suggestions include donating used sports equipment to Big Brothers/Big Sisters and sending a gas/gift card to a wounded service member. Public service has become a hot topic because of President Obama's vow to increase funding for AmeriCorps, so this book has a potentially huge audience.
Copyright 2009 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
June 1, 2009
Adult/High School-This cheerful little book is the print version of the author's Web site. Tenzer started her campaign by challenging herself to do one concrete nice thing every Monday. Although not all of the projects and activities seem feasible for teens, a number of the efforts were spearheaded by children. Many of the ideas are adaptable and could be used as starting points for a brainstorming session on voluntarism. The book is divided into chapters that describe what people can do for children, for pets, the planet, soldiers, and so on. Each idea is outlined in two pages that include an introductory paragraph, a quote or testimonial from someone who has done the deed, necessary contact information, and instructions for repeating the act (URLs, recipes, addresses). Although many of the suggestions are familiar, Tenzer's engaging tone and practical information are likely to motivate readers. With more than 100 ideas, the book (and Web site) would be a useful reference for a teen service club or library teen advisory group interested in working on philanthropic activities."Sondra VanderPloeg, Colby-Sawyer College, New London, NH"
Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.