Cool careers without college for people who love to work with children

School Library Journal

Gr 8 Up-Written in an easygoing, conversational manner, these titles each describe at least a dozen different career choices. Most chapters include both positive and negative aspects of the field, job descriptions, education and training requirements, salary, and future market outlooks. The authors, while not necessarily experts in the field, provide pointed advice on each line of work and sometimes highlight what not to do. The texts are peppered with brief interviews or descriptions of a "day in the life of" with real practitioners and offer honest advice about how to achieve success in each area. There is a good balance between working for other people and entrepreneurial opportunities, and in the latter, the authors describe necessary business skills. They also suggest certifications or associate's degrees that would assist in qualifications or in lieu of experience. Overall, the photos are of good quality and highlight an aspect of the chapter's featured career. A resource section in each chapter includes books, Web sites, national associations (including Canadian), periodicals, and further information. Clear, easy-to-read titles for students who are not on the college track.-Karen Hoth, Marathon Middle/High School, FL Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.