By exploring diverse professions, children begin to see how their interests, talents, and dreams can translate into meaningful futures. Early exposure to career possibilities not only broadens their horizons but also inspires curiosity, nurturing a deeper appreciation for the roles that make communities thrive. This season’s Jobs & Careers series offer an engaging introduction to the world of work, from community heroes like firefighters and nurses to trailblazing scientists and creative innovators. These books provide accessible, visually captivating, and interactive content that encourages young readers to explore their passions while gaining practical insights into exciting career paths. Perfect for school and public libraries, these series empower children and teens to imagine their potential and build confidence in their ability to make a difference.

Elementary

Banks, Rosie. Archaeologist. ISBN 9781725352292.
––––. Astronomer. ISBN 9781725352322.
––––. Geologist. ISBN 9781725352353.
––––. Meteorologist. ISBN 9781725352384.
––––. Paleontologist. ISBN 9781725352414.
––––. Zoologist. ISBN 9781725352445.
ea vol: 32p. (Scientific American Investigates Careers in Science). Rosen/Scientific American. Jan. 2025. Tr $28.93.
Gr 3-5–This dynamic and eye-opening series, created in collaboration with Scientific American, shatters stereotypes of scientists in lab coats and invites middle grade readers to explore an exciting array of STEM careers. Perfect for hi-lo readers, each volume dives into a fascinating field of science, introducing inspiring careers like archaeologist, meteorologist, geologist, and paleontologist. With accessible language, vibrant photographs of real scientists, and engaging visuals such as graphic organizers and fact boxes, this series makes complex concepts approachable and thrilling. Readers can uncover the mysteries of Earth’s past with geologists who study rock formations and plate tectonics, or they can dive into the science of storms with meteorologists who predict life-saving weather forecasts. Each book not only highlights what these scientists do daily but also provides glimpses into groundbreaking discoveries that have shaped our world. This series aligns perfectly with elementary STEM curricula while offering real-world connections that spark curiosity. VERDICT With high-interest content and accessible text, this series is an excellent addition to any library, especially school libraries serving STEM school students.

Emminizer, Theresa. Who Answers 911 Calls? ISBN 9781978542136.
––––. Who Cleans Up Oil Spills? ISBN 9781978542167.
––––. Who Does Search and Rescue? ISBN 9781978542198.
––––. Who Puts Out Wildfires? ISBN 9781978542228.
––––. Who Saves Animals in Danger? ISBN 9781978542259.
––––. Who Saves People in Storms? ISBN 9781978542280.
ea vol: 24p. (Calling All Community Heroes!). Enslow. Jan. 2025. Tr $24.27.
K-Gr 3–True heroes aren’t always the rich and famous; they’re often everyday people who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving their communities. In this informative and practical series, readers are introduced to these unsung heroes, learning about the incredible work they do behind the scenes. From responding to emergency calls and battling wildfires to cleaning up environmental disasters and conducting search-and-rescue missions, these first responders are ready for anything. Through engaging, easy-to-understand language and readable text, the series breaks down complex crisis response efforts in a way that’s both educational and inspiring. The age-appropriate vocabulary ensures that young readers can follow along and absorb all the information. The books are also filled with striking visual elements, including vivid photographs, bold colors, and dynamic formatting. With each page, young readers are encouraged to reflect on the value of helping others and empowered to make a difference themselves. VERDICT This series is ideal for larger public library collections that serve a range of reading levels.

Fickett, Jamie. Chef. ISBN 9781684503117.
––––. Dentist. ISBN 9781684502967.
––––. Firefighter. ISBN 9781684503025.
––––. Police Officer. ISBN 9781684503087.
––––. Postal Worker. ISBN 9781684503056.
––––. Teacher. ISBN 9781684502998.
ea vol: 24p. (Helpful People). Rosen/Norwood House. Jan. 2025. Tr $25.27.
K-Gr 2–From the precision of postal workers to the bravery of police officers, each book in this series offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of essential community helpers. Postal workers, chefs, teachers, firefighters, police officers, and dentists are profiled in this series that’s ideal for early elementary readers who are beginning to read independently. Each book outlines what these professionals do every day, how they use their unique tools and talents, and why their work matters so much. The engaging, easy-to-follow text is perfectly tailored for budding readers, while the vibrant, full-color photographs bring the action to life. This series goes beyond simply informing—it inspires, showing kids how they, too, can grow into roles that make a real difference in their community. Whether they dream of delivering mail, protecting neighborhoods, or lending a helping hand in other ways, readers will finish these books with a newfound appreciation for the everyday heroes around them and the exciting possibilities of becoming one themselves. VERDICT A great purchase for public libraries.

Hall, Alex. A Bus Driver. ISBN 9781978541818.
––––. A Nurse. ISBN 9781978541870.
Leatherland, Noah. A Firefighter. ISBN 9781978541900.
––––. A Police Officer. ISBN 9781978541900.
ea vol: 24p. (A Day in the Life of...). Enslow. Jan. 2025. Tr $24.27.
PreS-Gr 1–This engaging four-book series offers young readers a glimpse into the daily lives of essential community helpers, including bus drivers, firefighters, nurses, and police officers. Through vibrant full-color photographs, readers can explore the behind-the-scenes responsibilities of these important jobs, from inspecting a bus to providing medical care. The accessible text, designed for newly independent readers, introduces each career with clear, easy-to-understand language, making these books a perfect choice for elementary classrooms, public library collections, or early independent reading. The series highlights the diversity of these professions, featuring real people from various backgrounds, fostering an inclusive perspective on community helpers. It encourages empathy and understanding by showcasing the wide range of experiences that contribute to helping others. With fact boxes, a glossary, and an index, these books support both curriculum lessons and young readers’ curiosity about the world around them. VERDICT A basic, yet still great way to celebrate the many ways people contribute to our communities.

Havemeyer, Janie. Bartering. ISBN 9781503894587.
Herman, Miles. Banks and Credit Unions. ISBN 9781503894365.
Ipcizade, Catherine. Ways to Pay. ISBN 9781503894372.
Larsen, Ib. Budgets. ISBN 9781503894327.
––––. How Money Is Created. ISBN 9781503894310.
––––. Investing. ISBN 9781503894358.
––––. Jobs and Careers. ISBN 9781503894570.
––––. Saving. ISBN 9781503894341.
––––. Taxes. ISBN 9781503894556.
Margitich, Hilary. Cryptocurrency. ISBN 9781503894389.
McCallum Staats, Ann. Starting a Business. ISBN 9781503894563.
St. John, Catherine. Interest. ISBN 9781503894334.
ea vol: 24p. (The World of Money). The Child’s World/Stride. Jan. 2025. Tr $32.79.
Gr 3-5–Financial literacy might seem like a daunting subject, but this series turns it into an exciting and accessible journey for early to middle elementary readers. With a mix of engaging narratives, vivid visuals, and real-world connections, this series unpacks the fundamentals of money and finance in ways that are easy to understand and fun to explore. The series makes even complex ideas, like investing or interest, feel approachable. Readers are guided through history, practical applications, and potential benefits and drawbacks, all presented in a friendly tone. What truly elevates this series is its dynamic design. Fast facts, colorful diagrams, and critical-thinking questions spark curiosity and invite active engagement. Perfect for school and public libraries, these books blend theory and practice, offering a practical toolkit to help kids navigate their financial futures with confidence and curiosity. VERDICT A must-have collection for school libraries.

Upper Elementary to Middle School

Benson, Jodyanne. Be an Animator!ISBN 9781499449525.
Emminizer, Theresa. Be a Chef!ISBN 9781499449433.
––––. Be a Fashion Designer!ISBN 9781499449464.
––––. Be a Graphic Designer!ISBN 9781499449495.
––––. Be a Video Game Designer!ISBN 9781499449587.
––––. Be an Architect!ISBN 9781499449556.
ea vol: 32p. (On the Job: Creative Careers). Rosen/PowerKids. Jan. 2025. Tr $27.93.
Gr 3-6–This vibrant series invites young readers to dive into the world of exciting, creative careers. Perfect for aspiring innovators, each book offers snapshots of an intriguing collection of professions, breaking down the essential details like required education, hands-on training, and the cutting-edge tools used on the job. From daily responsibilities to behind-the-scenes insights, readers will gain a clear understanding of what it takes to turn artistic passion into a fulfilling profession. With its accessible language, high-interest topics, and visually engaging design, this series will captivate reluctant and advanced readers alike. Packed with eye-catching photos, fact boxes, and graphic organizers, this series goes beyond the basics to spark curiosity and imagination. It also empowers readers by outlining steps they can take now to start preparing for their dream careers. Whether it’s crafting digital masterpieces, designing futuristic spaces, or creating dazzling performances, these books make career exploration engaging and approachable for elementary students. VERDICT A great choice for larger school libraries.

Buckley Jr., James. Sports Careers. ISBN 9798892326513.
Kelley, K.C. Space Careers. ISBN 9798892326506.
Minyard, J.G. Animal Careers. ISBN 9798892326445.
––––. Dangerous Careers. ISBN 9798892326469.
––––. Gaming Careers. ISBN 9798892326483.
Sommer, Nathan. Creepy Careers. ISBN 9798892326452.
––––. Entertainment Careers. ISBN 9798892326476.
––––. Nature Careers. ISBN 9798892326490.
ea vol: 32p. (Jobs on the Edge). Bearport. Jan. 2025. Tr $32.95.
Gr 3-6–This exciting new installment of the “Jobs on the Edge” series continues to engage readers with its exploration of unconventional and thrilling professions. Building on the success of the previous volumes, this collection highlights wild, wacky, and extreme jobs, offering a quirky twist on traditional career books. From working with scaly snakes and buzzing bees in Animal Careers to crafting fiery explosions in Entertainment Careers, these books showcase the passion that drives people in these unique roles. Each title is packed with facts and eye-popping photographs that make learning about these extreme careers an adventure in itself. Readers can also dive into the daring world of Dangerous Careers, explore the final frontier with Space Careers , or uncover the secrets of the wild with Nature Careers. The fun tone and outrageous visuals will keep young audiences hooked while introducing them to career paths they may have never imagined. VERDICT A must-read for curious middle-grade students.

Duling, Kaitlyn. Become a Landscape Expert: Gardening, Urban Forestry & More. ISBN 9781098294977.
––––. Become a Technology Whiz: Coding, Software Development & More. ISBN 9781098294984.
Gates, Margo. Become a Cosmetologist: Hairstyling, Skin Care & More. ISBN 9781098294960.
––––. Become an Aviation Pro: Flight Training, Aircraft Care & More. ISBN 9781098295004.
––––. Become an EMS Specialist: Emergency Treatment, Wound Care & More. ISBN 9781098295011.
Kuehl, Ashley. Become a Construction Technician: Carpentry, Plumbing & More. ISBN 9781098294953.
––––. Become a Vehicle Mechanic: Car Maintenance, Bike Repair & More. ISBN 9781098294991.
Mooney, Carla. Become an Entrepreneur: Business, Leadership & More. ISBN 9781098294946.
ea vol: 64p. (Talent to Trade). ABDO/Abdo & Daughters. Jan. 2025. Tr $37.07.
Gr 5-9–This dynamic series explores careers in various trades, ideal for middle and early high school students eager to discover their potential. Through engaging text, readers are introduced to the fascinating history of each trade, the essential skills and tools needed for success, and practical advice on building foundational knowledge before pursuing further training. For those intrigued by the business world, the entrepreneurship title reveals the essential traits of successful leaders, while the construction book shows how builders, carpenters, and plumbers craft tangible structures. The technology volume brings coding and software development to life, illustrating how tech professionals shape our digital world. The landscape book offers insight into careers that let you work outdoors, designing and nurturing vibrant spaces. Aviation enthusiasts will be captivated by careers in aviation and air traffic control, learning about the critical role these professionals play in keeping the skies safe. Interactive elements such as vision boards, hands-on activities, and step-by-step projects help students actively engage with the material. VERDICT This series is perfect for middle school and guidance counseling office libraries.

Upper Middle School to High School

Dougherty, Terri. Jobs If You Like the Arts. ISBN 9781678209803.
Kallen, Stuart A. Jobs If You Like Math. ISBN 9781678209841.
––––. Jobs If You Like Writing. ISBN 9781678209889.
Nardo, Don. Jobs If You Like History. ISBN 9781678209827.
––––. Jobs If You Like Science. ISBN 9781678209865.
ea vol: 64p. (Do What You Like). ReferencePoint. Jan. 2025. Tr $33.95.
Gr 8 Up–This five-part series is a must-read for teens who are exploring potential career paths. With books tailored to specific interests, this series offers a wealth of information to help students make informed decisions about their futures. Each book profiles six careers, delving into what each job entails, the education and training required, the working conditions, and potential pay. In addition, interviews and quotes from professionals in each field provide valuable real-world insights that help bring the job descriptions to life. The Jobs If You Like History volume takes readers into the fascinating world of archaeology, museum curation, and park management, while Jobs If You Like Math explores careers that span industries from healthcare to space exploration. Each book provides an overview of professions that align with students’ passions and talents. The series encourages young readers to think about how their personal interests can be channeled into a rewarding career. VERDICT This publisher continues to produce series that are highly relevant, offering practical guidance and inspiration for teens to explore careers that match their passions, in the workforce and beyond.

Among this season’s stellar offerings, the “World of Money” (The Child’s World) series truly stands out for its focus on the essential yet often complex topic of financial literacy. Aimed at young readers, this series uses approachable narratives, vibrant visuals, and practical insights to break down fundamental concepts like budgeting, saving, and entrepreneurship. Through its engaging storytelling and interactive elements, it helps simplify financial concepts that may initially seem out of reach for some learners. The “World of Money” series stands apart for its ability to make financial concepts accessible without compromising on depth, making it an indispensable resource for young readers looking to gain confidence in managing money and understanding the financial world.

FALL 2025 SERIES MADE SIMPLE REVIEWS