Exploring Careers in National Parks

School Library Journal

YA-A useful book for young people interested in outdoor jobs. Gartner is candid about service employees having to work long hours, weekends, and holidays. He stresses the fact that competition is keen, the pay isn't good, and that low turnover leads to limited opportunity for achievement. Still, many people compete for jobs with the NPS because of their love for the parks and their desire to work with the public and to help preserve natural resources. The author describes a wide range of career options that call for a variety of talents and backgrounds. He provides a short chapter on each and offers tips and information on training. The cover is attractive, but the text is illustrated by only a few black-and-white photographs. Three practical appendixes-a listing of the NPS regional offices, Seasonal Law Enforcement Training Program Schools, and pay scales as of 1992-are included. The text is readable, and presents detailed information in an accessible manner.-Patricia Noonan, Prince William Public Library System, Woodbridge, VA