If I Were a Park Ranger

A great way to introduce children to a not-often-depicted career path and maybe to spark some interest in our country’s national treasures as well.

PreS-Gr 3--This nonfiction picture book features a diverse cast of children who talk about all of the things they could do if they were a park ranger. Fun illustrations depict various national parks and monuments, including some of the things a park ranger would do if they worked at that particular park. Stier talks about the education a park ranger needs, as well as some of the historical figures who contributed to the creation of the National Park Service. This delightful picture book would make a fantastic read-aloud for younger elementary students. Children will be attracted to the playful Jane Cabrera-esque illustrations. Emerging readers and older kids alike will enjoy the flow of the text that is engaging and filled with fun facts. The author's note details Stier's experience visiting several of the parks as a child. She also talks about the research that takes place and arts-in-residence at some of the parks. Her notes delve into more specific detail about what park rangers do and how to become one. VERDICT A good addition to any picture book collection and a recommended pick for children who love nature and the outdoors.--Kristin Williamson, Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma