Veterinarian

Children's Literature

Veterinarian is a book in the "Careers with Character" series. The introduction is followed by nine chapters that offer a case history and practical career choice information, plus sidebars and back page information. In Veterinarian, authors Riddle and Simons present a role model in Dr. Steve Chapman, head veterinarian at the Brandywine zoo. In this chapter of Justice and Fairness, the problem of Dr. Chapman's acceptance as head veterinarian by other workers concerns him. He is trying not to assert his authority too quickly. However, when problems arise in the reporting of some sick bear cubs that has not come to his attention, he know he had to take action. He wants to be fair before making any accusations, so he asks himself some questions. Who is depending on me in this situation? Who might be hurt by each possible course of action I take? What is my number one priority in this situation? How can I better understand this situation? In this case history, the answer is not given, but is left up to the reader to determine what Dr. Chapman should do. There are also sidebars on A Zoo Vet's Responsibilities, Justice vs. Punishment and First Female Zoo Veterinarian. Other chapters deal with similar case histories and how they are handled. The authors have done a good job of offering practical and interesting information on what is needed both academically and personally in choosing veterinary medicine as a career. Illustrations are in color. 2003, Mason Crest Publishers,
&$151;Della A. Yannuzzi

VOYA

There are many employment guides aimed at the teenage reader. Most provide more or less the same information regarding job requirements, opportunities within a career field, and expected salaries and benefits. This eighteen-volume "Careers with Character" series does the same, but it approaches the task differently. Each title is filled with small vignettes and profiles that illustrate the activities a particular professional must face on a regular basis. For example, Veterinarian explains how workers in animal care clinics must be prepared to handle emergencies, be courageous and firm with injured animals, and be willing emotionally to make life-and-death decisions. As in the other volumes, the character traits that exemplify the best attributes of a good professional in the field are examined, particularly compassion, diligence, fairness, responsibility, and trustworthiness. Each text is readable because the writers avoid spouting data and statistics. Instead, role models in the highlighted fields are profiled, and their daily activities, both mundane and exciting, are evaluated. The page layout is nicely arranged, with bright photographs that often depict minorities and women interspersed with sidebars that highlight relevant quotes or further examine the virtues of a particular character trait. A reader fascinated with a certain career will get much out of this series, which includes books on the clergy, firefighter, psychologist, and social worker. The casual researcher will probably grow frustrated, scouring the profiles for the significant data. This well-written series provides an alternative approach to career education, matching the readers' moral fiber to the professions thatmight best suit those assets. VOYA CODES: 4Q 2P M J S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; For the YA with a special interest in the subject; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2003, Mason Crest, 90p. PLB Beach