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Monday, May 25, 2020

Incredible Jobs You've (Probably) Never Heard Of. Written and illustrated by Natalie Labarre. Nosy Crow, Penguin Random House. 2019. $25.99 ages 10 and up

"The most-fun-job award probably goes
to WATER SLIDE TESTERS. Water
parks and travel companies actually pay
people to test some of the craziest slides
around the world. Testers check for
safety, speed, and creative features, and
there's a scale to rate the "splash factor"
and adrenaline levels.

The Nose Dive
Rapunzel's Escape
The Medusa "

I am totally incredulous at the abundance of jobs I had NEVER heard of ... what a fun book to experience. I took my time and pored over the double page spreads that are begin as a visit to The Great Hall of Jobs. My gosh, who knew? After you read from front to back, you will. Just as I now do.

Adults are always interested in what kids think they might want to be when they are older. After those kids read the many entries, those questions will be answered in unexpected ways. It could make for a very funny scenario.

"FUNERAL CLOWNS are paid to
lighten the mood on difficult days.
Wearing bright clothes and playing
tricks, they help people to remember
their loved ones with a smile."

Or ...

"In Tokyo, Japan, the trains are so crowded
during morning and evening rush hours that
white-gloved TRAIN PUSHERS, or oshiya, 
actually push people on board. The oshiya
pack the trains tight, and make sure nobody
gets caught in the doors. It's a tight squeeze
for people hoping to get to work on time, as
the trains are filled well beyond their capacity!"

Nope, that would not sit well with my claustrophobia!

These are not occupations that are often considered. In fact, they are real jobs for real people living around the world. Busy, detailed pages offer unusual captions, fun art, and humorous notions about the many jobs few consider. Every so often the author provides a challenge for readers. While some of these jobs will hold no appeal and may not be totally accessible to readers, they are certainly entertaining to consider. Remember, too, new occupations are being invented all the time and one might be exactly what the doctor ordered.

"Don't worry if you still don't know 
what your DREAM JOB might be. 

All the jobs in this book are as UNIQUE
as the people who do them."

From someone who grew up thinking my choices were teacher, nurse, or secretary, this book certainly expands horizons. You will be amazed, enlightened, and inspired!
                                                                           

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