November 1, 2009
Gr 3-6-These highly readable books introduce some interesting careers. Each volume provides background information about the field and a clear look into its many possibilities in the 21st century. A chapter highlights ways to become involved in the profession and the interests and skills required. Activities that will allow students to learn more about the career are also included. Scattered throughout the chapters are boxes that add additional information. Colorful photographs illustrate each book. This series provides readers with a clear look at interesting careers that will play a role in the future."Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA"
Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
September 15, 2009
Grades 6-8 Titles in the Cool Science Careers series suggest vocational choices that students might want to explore. Each of these slim volumes offers bits of information regarding the fields history, scope, and career preparation as well as its potential future. A typical double-page spread includes a clear color photo on one side, facing a page with text along with a sidebar. Although the frequent use of short sentences suggests that the series aims at reluctant readers, they may find the vocabulary relatively difficult. Though it explores a potentially high-interest topic covered in few other books at this grade level, Virtual Reality Specialist devotes much more space to describing a series of virtual-reality terms and applications than it does to offering pragmatic advice on preparing for a career in the field. Each book in the series concludes with an annotated list of famous people in the field, a glossary, and short lists of recommended books and Web sites. Not included are source bibliographies. An attractive but uneven series of career materials for young people.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)