Smokejumpers

This series takes a variety of firefighting jobs that younger readers might not be aware of, and critically analyzes them. Each volume was written with the help of an expert consultant, features multiple color photographs with informative captions, further readings, and online resources. Students who are interested in becoming firefighters, as well as those who are intrigued by the different types of jobs there are in being a firefighter, will enjoy this series. Bibliography. Glossary. Index.

Future firefighters will relish this series, as it relates all of the most dangerous positions in the field. Each title begins by discussing a real-life emergency situation, then moves into the specific duties, training, tools, and dangers of the job. The authors incorporate many examples and situations, both successes and failures. The writing is interesting and includes bolded words that are found in the glossary. The layout is inviting, with full-color captioned photos, fact boxes, diagrams, headings, and large print text. Though the focus is narrow, overall, this is a very worthwhile series. The reviewed sets are varied indeed-in subject matter, time period, career paths, and audience, as well as in quality. Bold colors, intriguing photos, and varied layouts result in some attractive and informative titles, while the storytelling in many of the books makes for interesting reading. “Fire Fight!: The Bravest” hits the mark on all of those characteristics. Though many series are aimed at middle and high school students, several are excellent starters for the younger readers: “Young Entrepreneurs,” “Business Leaders,” and “Great African-Americans.” Some series will be attention grabbers (“The World’s Coolest Jobs”), whereas others address well-trod ground (“Science Biographies”). Many of the series promote worthy subjects, though others are questionable for the targeted audience. Professional judgment on your part will decide which of the series listed here are worthy of purchase