Appealingly illustrated in soft colors that evoke a time gone by, A Mitzvah for George Washington tells a tale based on a historical event, George Washington’s visit to Newport, Rhode Island in 1790.
Young Bella’s father has written to the first US President to offer thanks for the freedom of religion that has enabled him, his family, and his congregation to practice Judaism openly and with pride. He is well aware that in many parts of the world, this privilege is denied. Bella’s father, who is the congregation’s leader, thinks of Washington as a “guiding light” and wants to express his appreciation. He and Bella understand that showing gratitude is a mitzvah. Bella decides that the congregation’s children should also express their thanks when Washington’s scheduled visit finally comes to pass.
Bella, her sister, and other Jewish children in Newport hand letter signs to display upon Washington’s arrival but they find that the crowd is too thick for them to display the signs prominently enough for the president to see them. Instead, they fashion candles as an appropriate gift for one who is considered a “guiding light.” They light their candles at the entrance to the ship which will transport Washington back home. The children light their candles and raise their voices in song. Washington sees them, expresses thanks, and continues on his busy way.
In the author’s note, Rachelle Burke explains that although the story is fictionalized, President George Washington actually visited Newport at that time to rally support for the Bill of Rights which includes the First Amendment guaranteeing Freedom of Religion. He was accompanied by Thomas Jefferson who served as Secretary of State. Moses Seixas, the leader of the Newport Jewish congregation — and the father of two young daughters — was one of the dignitaries who greeted them. The afterword includes an excerpt from a letter Seixas wrote to George Washington.
Exploring an interesting event in American history and Jews’ broader role in the founding of the country, this book will be of interest to young readers who are learning about the formation of the United States.
Michal Hoschander Malen is the editor of Jewish Book Council’s young adult and children’s book reviews. A former librarian, she has lectured on topics relating to literacy, run book clubs, and loves to read aloud to her grandchildren.
