Unusual and Awesome Jobs in Sports: Pro Team Mascot, Pit Crew Member, and More

Gr 6–8—This collection illustrates the diversity of jobs while shattering stereotypes about careers in math, science, and technology. The stylish, graffiti-style design and fun fonts imbue each page with a youthful feeling. Some of the professions discussed here, such as laughter therapist and professional sleeper, are more whimsical than practical, but they will intrigue students. Others (food taster) might sound insubstantial but require specialized education and skills and are well compensated. Common Core questions at the end of each text let readers integrate new knowledge. Sidebars call attention to noteworthy information, such as the necessary skills and education for each position, as well as expected salary and schedule. Photos are rich in color and compelling, with snappy captions ("Cave divers have found the bones of extinct lizards, sloths and elephants.").