Be a Mason (21st Century Skills Library: Guide to the Trades)

Gr 4-7--Careers are explored from a variety of perspectives, including required education, common scenarios for each worker, potential day-to-day challenges, and rules and regulations governing each role. Chapters are divided consistently and provide a good balance of imagery and quick-fact captions and questions for advanced critical thinking. Men and women of all ages and ethnic and racial identities are shown in a variety of roles in this series. For example, women are depicted as trainers and educators and are also shown as tradeswomen. New concepts as well as those specific to each trade are bolded and included in the glossary. Suggestions for further reading include websites and books and reflect up-to-date information. VERDICT Both middle and high schoolers can discover a new world of career options thanks to this pragmatic and relevant series.