So You Want To Be A Doctor (So You Want To Be A...)

"A doctor's job is akin to that of a detective. Doctors offer solutions to problems that afflict the human body. Linda Soules' So You Want to Be a Doctor sheds light on one of the world's most prestigious and important professions. In this book, young readers will discover what it takes to be a doctor. Doctors work across a wide range of specialities, including medicine, pediatrics, oncology, and many more. This book takes readers through a doctor's career, showing how they work and the tools they use for diagnosis and analysis. Doctors have to make serious decisions under pressure, sometimes even without having all the information. Walk through the daily life of a doctor and learn how they serve their community and society as a whole.

So You Want to Be a Doctor is for all young aspirants who want to pursue a career in medicine and help people stay healthy. Linda Soules has written a series of books on careers for young people. And this book is about a career that has an impact on almost everyone's day-to-day lives. The accessible writing style will appeal to preteens and young teenagers alike. The author makes sure that each topic is explained in detail, ensuring that readers understand all the fundamental aspects of being a doctor. The lively illustrations also complement the narrative perfectly. This is one of the best career guides for children that I've ever read. I found it very informative and motivational. It's also concisely written, authentic, and illuminating. Highly recommended."

"So You Want To Be A Doctor by Linda Soules is a smart and engaging career guide for kids who are curious about medicine and want to know what being a doctor is really like. The book makes a great comparison between doctors and detectives, showing how physicians study symptoms, ask questions, and piece together clues to figure out what’s going on inside the body. It introduces young readers to the science behind the profession, from body systems and diagnosis to the tools doctors use every day, while keeping the information clear and approachable.

What makes this book stand out to me is that it doesn’t make medicine look easy or glamorous. Soules is honest about the years of school, the long hours, the pressure, and the emotional weight that comes with caring for people. At the same time, she also shows why the work can be so rewarding. Kids get a real sense of what happens during hospital rounds, how doctors work with nurses and specialists, and how different fields like pediatrics, emergency medicine, surgery, oncology, and research all play a role in healthcare.

The book’s tone is encouraging without talking down to its readers, which is perfect for older kids and young teens who are starting to think seriously about the future. I liked how it focuses not only on knowledge and skill, but also on compassion, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. Doctors don’t just solve medical puzzles, they support patients and families through scary, uncertain moments. That human side gives the book a lot of warmth and makes the profession feel meaningful instead of distant. The illustrations help make the more complex ideas easier to understand, and the fun facts, history pieces, and practical suggestions give curious readers plenty to explore.

Soules also does a wonderful job showing that good medicine isn’t only about tests, tools, and diagnoses. One of the book’s most memorable lines says, 'The doctor who listens carefully, who explains clearly, who makes the patient feel heard and cared for – is practicing medicine at its fullest.' That idea gives the book a lot of heart and reminds young readers that compassion is just as important as knowledge.

So You Want To Be A Doctor is informative, motivating, and realistic, making it a strong choice for science-loving kids who think they might want a future in medicine. It’s especially well suited for readers around 10 to 14, though slightly older kids may get even more out of its details and behind-the-scenes look at the medical world."

"Linda Soules's Doctor meets its young readers where they actually are: curious, capable, and ready for truth. This is career writing with backbone, aimed at ten- to twelve-year-olds without the hollow cheerleading most guides offer.

Soules frames medicine as detective work: patients arrive with clues, doctors listen, examine, and reason toward answers. She tours clinics and hospitals, introduces the stethoscope and scans, and explains how nurses, pharmacists, and social workers share the load. What stayed with me was the balance. The book celebrates small victories yet never hides grief, eleven years of school, or the shift from curing to comforting. As a parent, I valued the author's closing line about not abandoning patients, and the actionable list on first aid, anatomy books, and asking your own doctor real questions.

Soules writes in clear, warm prose that explains terms like residency without talking down. Historical profiles of Paul Farmer and Elizabeth Blackwell add depth. The day-in-the-life timeline feels vivid. The prose earns trust by admitting what doctors cannot fix. A solid glossary helps. Illustrations support every page.

If your child bandages stuffed animals or asks why lungs sound different when sick, keep this guide on the shelf. It opens medicine with compassion and realism, and sparks family conversations long after the last page. Highly recommended for curious middle graders and reading parents."

"Many children dream of becoming doctors. They imagine making a difference in the world. Yet few books successfully bridge that dream with the reality of what the profession truly requires. In So You Want to Be a Doctor, Linda Soules accomplishes exactly that, creating an engaging and insightful introduction that speaks not only to aspiring young physicians but also to the parents, grandparents, teachers, and mentors who encourage their ambitions.

Rather than portraying medicine as a glamorous career defined only by white coats and stethoscopes, Soules presents it as a lifelong commitment to learning, compassion, discipline, and service. She explains that becoming a doctor requires far more than intelligence—it demands resilience, empathy, curiosity, excellent communication, teamwork, and a genuine desire to help others. By introducing these qualities in an age-appropriate way, she helps young readers understand that the journey begins long before medical school.

The book excels at making a complex profession both approachable and inspiring. Through conversational language and beautiful illustrations, Soules guides readers through the daily responsibilities of physicians, the many specialties within medicine, and the educational path that leads from childhood curiosity to professional practice.

Perhaps the book's greatest strength is its balance. It celebrates the excitement of diagnosing illnesses, solving problems, and improving lives while never overlooking the emotional responsibility that accompanies caring for patients. Soules emphasizes that doctors do more than treat diseases—they comfort families, make difficult decisions, collaborate with healthcare teams, and continue learning throughout their careers. This perspective gives young readers an authentic understanding of medicine without diminishing the wonder that draws so many children to the profession.

While written with children in mind, So You Want to Be a Doctor possesses a warmth and wisdom that make it equally rewarding for adults. Parents will appreciate its realistic guidance, educators will recognize its educational value, and healthcare professionals may find themselves smiling at the accurate and compassionate portrayal of their vocation. It opens meaningful conversations about careers, character, perseverance, and service that extend well beyond the book.

For any child who has ever imagined wearing a white coat—or any adult hoping to nurture that dream—this is an outstanding and highly recommended read."

"My kid actually read the whole thing which never happens. It explains what doctors really do day to day — not just the cool stuff but also the hard parts too... The pictures are nice and it doesn't talk down to kids."

"Excellent book that takes a child's desire to be a doctor seriously. The pros, cons, and surprises of the profession are explained... The book also offers next steps and gives credible references for education and more information."

"So You Want to Be a Doctor by Linda Soules is a lovely and informative book about the medical profession. The target audience is young children, and the book does a wonderful job of giving them enough information about the job doctors do without being overwhelming.

It speaks of what is expected of a doctor, the instruments they use, and what a typical day in their lives looks like, with a blend of easy-to-understand text as well as images, which make it more engaging for a child. It does not sugarcoat things but shows kids the reality as is.

What especially stood out to me in the book was its focus on emotional competence, a part of being a doctor that is often overlooked. The book intelligently wove it into the story and spoke about how doctors don’t only have to navigate complex problems but also complex emotions.

Any child who is learning about professions would have learnt something new having read this book!"

"My 12 year old with autism is obsessed with the medical field and has read this book over and over he loves it so much."

"Linda Soules' SO YOU WANT TO BE A DOCTOR feels grounded in respect for its young audience. While reading, I was aware of how carefully the book positions medicine as a practice shaped by knowledge, responsibility, and human proximity. The book does not dramatise the profession; instead, it traces the long formation behind it—years of study, routines within clinical environments, and the quiet precision required in moments of uncertainty. I found myself drawn to the way technical explanation and everyday scenarios are interwoven, allowing the work of diagnosis and care to emerge as something cumulative rather than instinctive. The emphasis on teamwork also lingers, presenting medicine as a shared practice.

Another element that held my attention is the sustained focus on emotional intelligence. The text returns frequently to the idea that clinical competence alone cannot sustain the profession; attention to patients’ fears and vulnerabilities is treated as central, not supplementary. This is conveyed without abstraction, often through small, concrete situations that make the ethical dimension of medical work legible to younger readers. The language remains accessible, though it does not dilute the complexity of the field, and the inclusion of practical steps—what one might begin doing now—anchors the book in a sense of forward movement. I appreciated that the guidance avoids prescriptive rigidity, offering direction while leaving space for individual paths....By the end, I had the sense of having read something that functions as both introduction and orientation: a way of thinking about medicine as an intellectual and ethical commitment."

"SO YOU WANT TO BE A DOCTOR is a thoughtful and practical introduction for young readers who are curious about a future in medicine. It doesn’t just focus on the exciting parts of being a doctor, it also explains the years of study, the responsibility, and the emotional side of the job in a way kids can understand. The book walks through what a typical day might look like and highlights the different paths within the medical field, which helps make the profession feel more real and less abstract. It also gives simple, actionable ideas for what children can start doing now if they’re serious about this path.

What stands out is how honest and balanced the approach is. It encourages curiosity and ambition, but also sets clear expectations about the discipline and compassion the role requires. I appreciated how it speaks to kids without talking down to them, making it a useful resource for slightly older children who are starting to think about their future more seriously. SO YOU WANT TO BE A DOCTOR is a solid choice for parents or guardians looking to support that interest while giving a realistic picture of what the journey involves."

"A very thorough resource for older elementary school and middle school kids who are considering a medical profession... This book provides a helpful way for kids to decide if this career is right for them as well as practical steps to take now."

"What a great short read!! I as an adult learned things I didn't know or thought of, like how the stethoscope came to be. My favorite parts were the brief history segments like the first female doctor and creation of palliative care, as well as the example of a doctor's workday."

"This was a good read. I wish there were a book like this when I was growing up. I think it would have sparked a bigger interest in the healthcare field."

"It doesn't talk down to children — it explains the hard parts too, like when doctors can't fix everything. The illustrations are warm and the 'day in the life' section was a favorite."

"I was very impressed with this book, as I have been with the others from this series. I think it is an amazing educational resource for children exploring different professions. I appreciate the information aspect of this reading, but also the illustrations. With children in particular, images capture their attention quickly. I highly recommend this!"

"Love these books! This is great for any child wanting more information, in a fun and engaging way, about what it would be like to be a doctor. This would be a good classroom addition during career week or for researching careers that kids are actually interested in. As with all of these 'So You Want to Be a...' books, the illustrations are some of my favorite pieces! The information is also great, especially the 'Tools of the Trade' that breaks down the different tools that doctors use to help patients. I think one of the most important pieces is the best/hardest parts of the job breakdown."

"This book is so underrated. When I started reading it I thought it was going to be like a generic book. But I was positively surprised when I finished it. It’s such an informative and interesting book, I learnt so many facts I didn’t know about doctors."

"The care that went into this book is extraordinary. The author clearly explains what doctors do in terms of practical, as well as emotional skills. There is a glossary, books to read next, activities to engage in, short biographies of important people in medicine, as well as a plethora of answers. The book draws you in with the importance of the information and the beautiful pictures. The pictures show a range of doctors, from gender, to ethnicity, to age, showing that with hard work and compassion that being a doctor might be a career choice for anyone. I absolutely loved this book and could see it as an important addition to any home or school library."

"As the aunt of a 5-year-old niece who constantly talks about being a doctor when she grows up, I was excited to read this book to her. The author presents the journey to becoming a doctor in a way that is easy for kids to understand. This book explains the importance of helping others, learning new things, and working hard to achieve your goals. It makes the profession feel exciting while also showing that becoming a doctor takes dedication and perseverance."

"I work alongside many different types of doctors and this book really captured the essence of what it means to be a doctor. I love how much passion was put into this book to showcase all parts of the profession."

"This book is so cool and I want the whole series in my classroom. It tells the readers what doctors do overall and breaks it down into a possible daily snapshot. It also has sections that talk about schooling, the best part, the hardest part of the job, the qualities that make a good doctor and what someone can start doing right now to prepare among many others. I thought this was so helpful. It has a glossary and info about the tools they use and the people they work with... I could go on because here was so much good info. I wish more doctors today had read this first."

"As the aunt of a 5-year-old niece who constantly talks about being a doctor when she grows up, I was excited to read this book to her. The author presents the journey to becoming a doctor in a way that is easy for kids to understand. This book explains the importance of helping others, learning new things, and working hard to achieve your goals. It makes the profession feel exciting while also showing that becoming a doctor takes dedication and perseverance."

"My son always says he wants to be a doctor. So when I got this book, I knew it was perfect for him to read. This book gave him a clear understanding about how a day in doctor’s life goes. He noted some important areas of the book. He now understands why sometimes I have to do some notes when I get home from work. He asked, so you all don’t get a proper lunch break, and also need someone to care for you too."

"So You Want To Be A Doctor is such a fun intro for curious kids 😊! This picture book breaks down what doctors actually _do_ without making it scary or boring. Think bright illustrations, simple words, and lots of 'wow, really?!' moments 🩺.

It follows a day in the life of a doctor — from listening to hearts, to giving checkups, to helping people feel better. My nephew LOVED the page with the stethoscope and the 'let’s count bandages' part 😂. It also shows different kinds of doctors, which is cool. Pediatrician, surgeon, vet… kids get that 'doctor' isn’t just one thing.

What’s awesome:

- *Zero fear factor* — shots and sick days are explained gently 💕

- *Interactive bits* — 'Can you find the thermometer?' keeps little readers hooked

- *Inspiring but real* — shows doctors work hard and help people, no magic-wand stuff

If your kid plays 'hospital' 24/7 or asks 100 questions after every doctor visit, this book is 💯. It answers the 'why' and makes medicine feel approachable, not intimidating.

Cute, smart, and perfect for ages 4-8. Sparks curiosity without the overwhelm. Total win for future doctors 📚✨."

"This book shows kids what it is really like to be a doctor. It explains how the body works and what a doctor's daily job looks like, from checking on patients to doing surgery. It honestly shares how much hard work and studying it takes, but it also shows how amazing it feels to help people heal. With easy science and fun pictures, it is the perfect guide for any kid who dreams of working in medicine."

"I absolutely love all the So You Want To Be A… books. As a mom who works in the medical field I absolutely loved reading this one to my boy. I love that it’s perfectly balanced. This book made him curious and interested however, it makes sure to be specific of what being a doctor really entails. The author shows how special it can be to be a doctor but also how it can be tiring and without a break sometimes. If you have a curious little one these are the books for you!"

"So You Want To Be A Doctor is an encouraging book for anyone who wants to learn about becoming a doctor. It explains the steps in a simple way and shows the hard work and care needed for this career. It is easy to understand and a great introduction for future healthcare professionals."

"First you should know this book is definitely made for older children and early teens. This gives a very in-depth view of what being a doctor really looks like. The author did a great job explaining all the different things that go into being a doctor and not just the fun stuff. Great book!"

"As an elementary teacher, I love finding books that introduce students to careers in a way that feels exciting instead of overwhelming. So You Want to Be a Doctor by Linda Soules is one of those books that naturally encourages big dreams while helping children understand the dedication behind an important profession.

What stood out to me was how the book goes beyond simply saying that doctors help people. It gives young readers a better understanding of the education, skills, and compassion that are part of the job. That's such an important message for children to hear. It reminds them that success comes from hard work, curiosity, and a willingness to keep learning.

I could easily picture sharing this book during a career exploration lesson. My students are always eager to talk about what they want to be when they grow up, and this book would spark some wonderful discussions. I know I'd hear comments like, 'I didn't know doctors did that!' or 'Maybe I could do that someday.' Those moments are some of my favorites because they show students beginning to imagine new possibilities for themselves.

The writing is clear and engaging without oversimplifying the topic. It presents realistic information in a way that young readers can understand and enjoy, which isn't always easy to do. Linda Soules has a talent for making careers feel both attainable and inspiring.

Books like this are valuable additions to classroom libraries because they encourage students to think about their futures while reinforcing the importance of kindness, perseverance, and lifelong learning. I would happily recommend So You Want to Be a Doctor to fellow teachers, school librarians, and families who enjoy introducing children to the many paths they can take in life. It's an engaging read that just might inspire the next generation of caregivers and problem-solvers."

"This book is great for someone who is trying to decide on a career. It contains basic information in a clear, concise way describing who a doctor is, what a doctor does, and the challenges and rewards that are gained with this career. The cover looks like a book for kids, but the contents are more for teens deciding on a career path. It was very informative and easy to read."

"So You Want to Be a Doctor is an inspiring and engaging children’s book that introduces young readers to the caring and important work of doctors in a way they can easily understand. The illustrations are warm and inviting, helping children picture themselves in the role of a doctor while showing that medicine is about kindness and helping others.

The book does a great job of encouraging curiosity, empathy, and confidence, making it perfect for children who love pretend play or dream of becoming a doctor someday. It’s an excellent addition to a home library, classroom, or career-themed collection and is sure to spark meaningful conversations about healthcare and helping people."

"This is a very in-depth look into all aspects of being a doctor. Great for tweens interested in the profession or doing research for a paper or school project!"

"This book is a great book for all those students who are considering going to med school or into the medical field. The expectations section, day to day, tools of the trade and day in the life are great to help a young reader find their way. The section at the end listing books to read and terms to use is great to help a young reader learn terms so they can prepare. For anyone interested in this career or many others I recommend this series of books. The author does great research and spends time making sure it is up to date. I recommend this to anyone between 12-14 or to place into a classroom."

"This book is part of a larger series. Seems targeted for third grade or higher but would be honestly be great for anyone. It does a good job of describing what goes into being a doctor- the characteristics and physical demands. The book touches on different settings and equipment used to be a doctor. It also has facts on people who impacted the medical field. Would recommend."

"This was a basic, but informative introduction to the details of being a doctor. The author chose to discuss various roles that a doctor takes on, the character and qualities of a good doctor, and the different tools that doctors use. I loved the historically accurate accounts of doctors in history who've made a difference in the progress of medicine. It was especially interesting to learn about people that were not as well known as others. The book was both informative and entertaining."

"This book is amazing, honestly. It not only talks about how to become a doctor and what they do, it also serves as a guidebook for being a compassionate physician. This isn't a childish book at all. It is well-written and researched and talks about aspects of being a doctor that were not traditionally spoken of - such as the difficulty of giving one patient bad news and then moving on to take care of your next patient. I was not expecting this level of detail and the variety of information that is included. I am definitely impressed!"

"This book gives a great explanation of the different jobs of doctors. I like how it goes over the different places that doctors may work and the best and hardest parts of their jobs. I think it does a nice job explaining what the day in the life of a doctor may look like. The pictures provide great added details as well."

"I loved how informative this book was. It went into all the different kinds of doctors there are and the duties of each one. It explained how hard the job can be and even went into the history of famous doctors from the past. I thought this was a great book for someone who wants to dig deeper into the career of a doctor."

"First off, let me start by saying, this is the second 'So you want to be...' book that I have read and I honestly love them so far. My daughter is 14 and wants to be a doctor so reading this with her was a no brainer for me. I love that the precedence is set that being a doctor takes time, they give a timeline, so kids know it doesn't just happen overnight. I also love that the book pointed out that doctors can't help every patient, but they can still care for them. My girl has the biggest heart, and that's the part I really want to stick, because it's not always on the doctor or medical staff to solve the problem, sometimes they just need to be the support, care and love."

"This book is great for readers 10 -14. The illustrations are beautiful. It shows the exciting side, stressful side, sad and happy sides of being a doctor. It talks about schooling and tools used for this occupation and places where you can be used as a doctor. It will give your child/teen things to really think about and gives them ideas of how to start now cultivating their skills. This book along with others in the series should be a part of a classroom or school library."

"So You Want To Be A Doctor by Linda Soules is an outstanding and well-organized introduction to the medical profession for young readers. As someone who enjoys educational books that make learning both fun and accessible, I found this book to be informative, engaging, and beautifully presented.

One of the things I appreciated most was that the author emphasizes that being a doctor is about much more than simply knowing medicine. Science is certainly important, but so are personal qualities such as listening, showing compassion, communicating effectively, and genuinely caring about a patient’s well-being. These lessons help readers understand that great doctors treat people, not just illnesses.

The illustrations throughout the book are vibrant, colorful, and absolutely gorgeous. In many cases, the artwork alone helps tell the story of what doctors do every day. The visuals make complex ideas easier to understand and help keep young readers interested from beginning to end.

I especially enjoyed learning about the various tools of the trade, including the stethoscope and other equipment doctors use to examine and care for patients. The explanations are simple enough for younger readers while still providing meaningful information. The section discussing the important qualities of a doctor was another highlight because it shows the human side of medicine and the skills that cannot be learned from textbooks alone.

The book also introduces readers to famous doctors, including Cicely Saunders and Elizabeth Blackwell. I enjoyed learning about their accomplishments and the impact they had on healthcare. These real-life examples provide inspiration for children who may dream of entering the medical field someday.

Another enjoyable feature was the collection of fun facts sprinkled throughout the book. These interesting pieces of information add variety and make learning feel exciting rather than overwhelming.

Overall, So You Want To Be A Doctor is an excellent resource for curious children, future healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about the medical field. Between the engaging writing, educational content, inspiring role models, and beautiful illustrations, this book earns a well-deserved five stars from me. Highly recommended for classrooms, libraries, and home bookshelves alike."

"I liked how the author wrote the book beyond focusing on the theory of the medical profession and instead framed it as being the 'world's greatest detective,' where every patient is a mystery waiting to be solved. My favorite chapter, and the one my kid liked the most, is 'What Can You Do to Prepare Right Now?' as it encourages children to be proactive toward their dreams.

I also must highlight the diversity of the illustrations. We see doctors from all races, and I think it's good because this way children can see themselves being a doctor because they see someone who looks like them."

"Great book for kids that like playing doctor! This book have very vibrant pictures that my little girl loved looking at while I was reading to her. They pictures go along with the book very well. The beginning talks about diagnostic and describing what it entails, talking to the patients about what is hurting, how long it's been hurting and what helps ease the pain. It then it talks about listening no just to the body but also to the patients and watching for reactions to the examination to get more information than what the customer is saying. It also details what instruments are used in exams to get to a diagnosis such as stethoscope, blood pressure cuffs, blood work and X-rays. There are a lot of pictures showing the instruments too that made my little girl very excited about learning them.

I love that the book talks about the real stuff too about being a doctor the good the bad and the ugly. The good being easing a patients fears and helping them feel better and giving good news. The bad being unable to come up with a diagnosis or telling a patient that their condition is untreatable.

The book outlines the different places you can work as a doctor. Family practice, ER, urgent care and hospital general floors.

The book wraps up by detailing a day in the life of a doctor so your child can get a sense of what it's like working as a doctor and give the time that it takes to become a doctor 11-15 YEARS!! Breaking up the time spent in each of the different stages of school and internship.

Overall great book. Easy to read. Very informative."

"This book is very informative and inspiring. It shows the reality of being a doctor easily for kids to read and understand. The pictures are very well done and keep the reader/kids attention. I do like how you hear both 'good and bad' sides not just the good sides of being a doctor."

"As someone who is in the verge of becoming a doctor now this is a touching book and a book that I will pass down to my future children so the understand why I picked my profession."

"It does not only explain the job, but it also gives children ideas on how to prepare, such as learning first aid, studying the human body, or volunteering. It also includes helpful additions like a glossary and reading suggestions, which make it more than just a simple book."

"My Daughter is a Freshman in High School and is on a career path to be a Doctor. This was so informative to read together. It explains the "in's and out's" of what it means to be a Doctor, the decisions they make day to day, and the tools you'll use becoming one. I love that it has a glossary of terms at the back of the book to refer to while reading. Great find!"

"​This exceptionally well-crafted book offers a clear, honest look at what choosing a career in medicine truly entails. By pairing accessible explanations with vibrant, inclusive visuals, it demystifies the healthcare path while keeping human compassion firmly at the center."

"Another fantastic book for young people about why and how you should become a doctor if you are interested in this field of work and study. This edition covers the important roles doctors play in our lives, the challenges, the optimism, the abilities, and the skills you have and can develop in becoming a doctor. It also highlights the first woman doctor, Elizabeth Blackwell, who overcame the obstacle to being admitted to med school and becoming the first successful female to achieve this status. Very inspiring!"

"This book was designed to open a child's mind; create curiosity, with hope that one day their dreams can come true working in the medical profession."

"This book paints a great picture of what being a doctor really looks like. It gives the pros and cons, what a day as a doctor is like, famous doctors. The pictures are well drawn."

"This is a great source of career exploration in medicine for the age group suggested by the writer, 10-14 years. However, it can also be recommended for older individuals wanting a better understanding of career choices. I especially appreciated how the writer focuses on the reality behind becoming a doctor rather than making the profession seem easy or glamorous. The book is informative, easy to understand, and motivational. I recommend it particularly for serious readers who are considering medicine as a career path, and for parents to help younger people navigate a career at a young age."

"One of the few books that genuinely values the intelligence of young readers is So You Want to Be a Doctor. It tells the truth with clarity, compassion, and a surprising amount of emotional weight without sugarcoating or glamorizing the profession. As someone who appreciates tools that empower novices, I thought this book was incredibly human and refreshingly straightforward. It demonstrates to children not only what doctors do but also what it's like to work as a doctor, and that difference is crucial.

The book's portrayal of medicine as both science and service is its strongest point. The author never loses sight of the patient at the center of it all as she guides readers thru the realities of training, including years of study, long nights, and the discipline of mastering complex biology. The tone is expertly set by the first description of a terrified patient relying on a doctor's stability. It's honest rather than dramatic for the sake of drama. And that honesty is powerful for children between the ages of 10 and 14. It helps them visualize the responsibilities they envision taking on.

I also appreciated how the book highlights the teamwork behind every diagnosis and procedure. It’s not just the doctor—it’s nurses, technicians, specialists, surgeons, all working in sync. That perspective helps young readers understand that medicine is collaborative, demanding, and deeply interconnected. The book’s explanations of diagnostic reasoning, emergency care, pediatrics, and even research are clear without being condescending. It’s the kind of writing that makes complex ideas feel accessible, not watered down.

What makes this book truly stand out is its emotional intelligence. It talks openly about the compassion doctors must carry, the pressure they face, and the moments that define their careers. It also gives practical advice for kids who feel drawn to medicine—what they can explore now, how to nurture curiosity, and how to understand whether this calling is truly theirs. It’s inspiring without being cheesy, and realistic without being discouraging.

If you’re looking for a resource that gives young readers a meaningful, grounded, and motivating look at the medical profession, this book delivers. It’s thoughtful, vivid, and full of the kind of detail that helps a child imagine themselves in the role—not as a TV doctor, but as a real one. A genuinely illuminating read for any future healer."

"Must have. If you are teaching kids or exploring just for yourself. This book is perfect for you. It goes into detail of what a doctor actually is and not just someone wearing a white coat. The books asl includes tools you will use on job, the best thing about job, the hardest part, qualities a good doctor has, glossary with terms, and what you can do now to start you on process to become a doctor. This book is for all ages 8 and up. You could teach to a younger kid as well."

"The book itself is only 39 pages but it full of great information about what being a doctor means. It not only talks about the role of a doctor it explains the process of how a person becomes one. It talks about medical specialties. It uses easy to follow information for mid age children. It compares a doctor's work to that of a detective making it interesting to children. It talks about empathy and even delves into palliative care when a doctor's diagnosis cannot cure a person. Very powerful. A great dive into the practice of medicine."

"My kids liked this one a lot. Their grandfather is a doctor so it was cool for them to read about what goes into it!"

"Just as cute and informative as the other books in the series. Tells you what to expect from a typical day as a doctor, what skills you need, best and worst parts of the job, and even info about some famous doctors."

"This was a great informative insight to what it’s like to be a doctor. Clearly explaining things for any age to understand and even giving a glossary at the end!"

"Any young person who loves science and helping people has probably wondered if they should become a doctor. But how do you know if it is truly the right path for you?

While you will never truly know until you start medical school and your training, this book is a great first introduction to the world of medicine. Some of the qualities of a good doctor may surprise you.

Written in an accessible language with beautiful illustrations, 'So You Want To Be A Doctor' not only gives an age-appropriate in-depth picture of what a doctor does, it also offers lots of resources to help interested kids start preparing now for their future career."

"As I read SO YOU WANT TO BE A DOCTOR by Linda Soules, I found out that it covers more than just the exciting side of being a doctor. One of the first things I noticed was how well the book balances inspiration with reality. While it covers diagnosing illnesses and helping people heal, it also explains the years of study, the dedication needed, and the emotional demands of caring for patients. I really valued that honesty. It makes the job feel real instead of abstract or too glamorous.

It’s a warm, thoughtful, and useful book that takes young dreams seriously and gives them a solid place to begin."

"So read So You Want To Be A Doctor because I wanted to learn more about what the profession is really like, and I thought it did a good job of introducing the topic in a way that's easy to understand. Instead of making the career seem glamorous, the book explains the dedication, patience, and years of learning it takes to become a doctor.

What I appreciated most was that it doesn't only focus on treating patients. It also talks about the importance of communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and genuinely caring about people. Those are things I think often get overlooked when people imagine what doctors do every day.

The writing is straightforward and aimed at younger readers, but I still found it informative. The examples help explain the different responsibilities doctors have and give a realistic picture of the career without making it feel overwhelming.

Overall, I think this is a worthwhile read for anyone, especially young readers, who are curious about medicine and wondering if becoming a doctor might be the right path for them. It won't answer every question, but it's a solid introduction that encourages readers to think seriously about what the job involves."

"Do you aspire to become a doctor but are unsure if this is the career path for you? So You Want To Be A Doctor educates inquiring minds on what it takes to become a doctor, highlighting several key areas that could help you in your decision. For starters, yes, it takes many years of schooling and then hands-on experience. Yes, doctors work many hours under extreme pressure. They have cases that test their capabilities, moments of happiness, and moments that emotionally impact them. Doctors must love solving puzzles, be attentive, be team players, be sympathetic, retain vast knowledge of medical information, and more. But if you have a passion for helping others, can handle stress and emotional moments, and are willing to keep learning, you just might have found your future career.

So You Want To Be A Doctor, like the other career books, walks readers through a day in the life of a doctor. We see how lunches go uneaten, how the day doesn't stop when the doctor 'clocks out' from a shift, and how a doctor's demeanor changes from patient to patient. Doctors will cherish the good days, understanding that there will be hard days, filled with losses and unfortunate news. They tend not only to their patients, but also to their families. But doctors do not bear this weight alone. So You Want To Be A Doctor shares other team members who work alongside the doctor to give the best care to every patient under their care: the nurses, specialists, technicians, lab workers, pharmacists, and social workers.

So You Want To Be A Doctor also points out that we are finally taking care of the people who take care of others. Maybe this was due to the coverage of healthcare workers during the COVID crisis, but I'm grateful for whatever prompted it and appreciate the writer included it in the book. I also loved the artwork, which spoke volumes to what doctors’ face: the good and the bad. As with the other books in the professional/career series, I loved the fun facts and the pages spotlighting a few famous doctors in history. Do you know what prompted the creation of the first stethoscope, or what it was used to hear in a patient's heart? Or how many medical schools rejected Elizabeth Blackwell's application to medical school? Can you name the approximate number of cells in a human body? These answers, plus a whole lot more, await your discovery. I recommend this book for teens who are considering becoming doctors. I also recommend a more in-depth glossary of medical terms for instruments and specialty fields, or a detailed list of team members who assist in your care."

"First of all, this book is part of the So You Want to Be A… series written by Linda Soules...It is the Grand Prize Winner of the 2026 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards and I feel it is rightfully so. It is dedicated to “every kid who ever put a bandage on a stuffed animal and meant it.” It is all about the pros and cons of being a doctor. It lists all types of doctors. It lays down the essentials of how a doctor should perform on the job and the integrity required of doctors. It features the most famous doctors of all time (I think this is Soules’ finding) which include Paul Farmer who proved that the location of a person’s birth should never determine the quality of his or her medical care. And Cicely Saunders, who founded the modern field of palliative care who’s focus is that a doctor’s work on a patient doesn’t stop when the supposed cure does.

All in all, I believe this book and its series is aimed at young children, teens, and those who are deciding on what they should pursue in their lives. It makes being a doctor sound exciting and worthwhile. It gives readers the idea that becoming a doctor is a great way to help out humanity if you are that kind of individual. As I was reading this useful book, I came across familiar aspects of the doctor’s career and it made me think: Wow! A doctor’s job is such dedicated work and kudos to those who are already putting their skills and education to good use at hospitals and clinics around the world. That being a doctor is like a saint to humanity and that it’s such an honorable job! I highly recommend this book to parents who want their child to pursue a career that is life-changing and respectable. I think it’s a great book for people fresh out of high school and or college who are undecided and who want to make a difference in their lives, who want a career that is worth their energy and time. The only drawback that Soules mentions in her book here about being a doctor is the demanding level and the way it crushes you emotionally. (Dealing with dying patients and all that…)

So that’s it! My humble opinion on this simple but well-executed book about doctors and how rewarding (and again, exciting) their professional field is!"

"These are great starter books for any patient trying to help point their young child in the right direction, or for any child who is curious about the profession. Also has great facts about the career. And even a glossary. Great read!!"

"My daughter has been curious about medicine for a while but every book I found either talked down to her or buried the interesting parts under facts she could not connect to anything real.

So You Want to Be a Doctor changed that immediately.

The stethoscope story hooked her completely. A French doctor in 1816 rolling up a piece of paper because pressing his ear against a patient was improper and accidentally creating the universal symbol of medicine for two hundred years. She made me read it twice and told her grandmother the whole story at dinner that same night from memory.

The detective framing turned medicine into an adventure she wants to be part of someday.

Elizabeth Blackwell and Cicely Saunders gave her real heroes she did not know she was missing.

We have read it three times and she finds something new every single time."

"This book offers a realistic and clear look at the day to day running of medical activities. It gives you a clear and close up look inside the medical field by letting you inspect the inner workings of medical school, the years of schooling, and possible overworking and get burn out. The book also notes that it’s not about wearing fancy coat but they have to be a detective for every patient to figure what’s wrong in their body. My favorite aspect is that apart from the medical skills, the book mentioned empathy, active listening and seeing the patient as a whole person as a opportunity to get healing. It is a good guide for any child that is curious about how the human body works and what is takes to care for others."

"As with the entire series, So You Want to Be a Doctor gives a realistic - yet engaging for the 8-14 age group - look at what it might take to become a doctor. I appreciate this series so much."

"I read this book because I wanted to buy it for my grandchild. It is exactly what I hoped it would be. Easy to understand, encouraging and educational."

"I love the consistency with the books in this series. The author does not shy away from the harder aspects of the job (losing a patient, giving bad news), but I still feel it is tactful for a young child. Worth the read!"

"Very well detailed book about doctors, their knowledge, their mission to help others and how they commit their lives to it. I particularly liked to read about how doctors not only try to find a cure to save their patients but they also listen to them to get to better understand their illness and make sure they don’t miss out on anything relevant. It has enlightened me on how beautiful and selfless the job of doctor can be."

"This book captures the essence of a doctor and their life in the most simplest and easy-to-understand manners. Being a doctor myself, it has served as a reminder of what I actually started this journey for. It beautifully explains what a day in the life of a doctor looks like. It also provides information about some famous doctors who have left their mark in history via medicine.

For anyone aspiring to become a doctor, I think you should read this book and get a glimpse into this beautiful world. It's a difficult journey but not impossible. Only the bravest ones genuinely start the journey and the one who perseveres, excels."