Editorial Reviews
Praise For The Series
"Exceptionally informative, deftly crafted, nicely illustrated, thoroughly 'kid friendly' in organization and presentation, each individual title in the 'So You Want To Be A...' series by Linda Soules is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Jobs/Careers collections."
— Children's Bookwatch, Midwest Book Review
"Author Linda Soules has done a fantastic job with the So You Want To Be A... series of picture books so far. And this book continues to be as informative, engaging, and fun as the previous installments."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"I have enjoyed every book in this series, and this one follows the trend. It's a must-have on the bookshelf for anyone with children."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"Linda Soules writes as if she is beside a kid at the window: the dream is real, the work is hard, the sky still calls."
— BookBelow
"Treats children as equals... provides truths and layers of meaning beyond just showing pictures."
— Laura Imaz, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"Linda Soules has a knack for delving into the technical aspects of some unique career choices for professionals."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"Linda Soules has clearly researched her subject fully, but never allows that research to weigh down the content."
— C.R. Hurst, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"The rare kids' nonfiction book that refuses to talk down to its reader."
— BookBelow
"The illustrations throughout the book are exceptional, as they are throughout every book in Linda Soules So You Want To Be A… series."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 Stars
So You Want To Be A Doctor
"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."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"Sheds light on one of the world's most prestigious and important professions."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
So You Want To Be A Zookeeper
"A fantastic guide to teach young readers about animal care."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"It's a must-read for any parent who wants to instill a love of animals in children at a young age."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"Animal lovers and readers looking for career-focused or nature-themed reads will definitely enjoy this one."
— Jennifer Senick, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"The book is a delight on so many levels, giving readers a glimpse of life in an exciting world."
— H. Mathur, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"The book that every kid will want to read, and likely many adults, too."
— H. Mathur, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"This is the ultimate guide to being a zookeeper, designed to help kids understand that it's not just about looking after an animal; it's about protecting them, conservation, and ensuring that endangered animals are brought back from the brink."
— Anne-Marie Reynolds, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"The perfect launching pad for any child who wants to turn their dreams into reality."
— Anne-Marie Reynolds, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"Linda Soules' So You Want To Be A Zookeeper is a wonderful guide, and it stood out to me because of the age-appropriate and informative aspects of a job many children dream of doing...The author uses plain, confident language that explains the real work in ways a child can follow."
— Asher Syed, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"Soules is also the illustrator, filling each page with full color, welcoming scenes that place the reader beside the animals, all artistically created in a contemporary animation style."
— Asher Syed, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"This is the perfect book for young readers interested in animals, science, and hands-on work, especially children who want to understand what caring for wildlife truly involves. Very highly recommended."
— Asher Syed, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer)
"So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer is a fun, fast, and informative children’s book that takes readers behind the scenes of one of the most exciting engineering jobs imaginable. This children’s book has plenty to offer younger children, older students, teachers, parents, and even curious adults."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 Stars
"One of the book’s strengths is how clearly it explains the mix of imagination and science involved in roller coaster design....The book does a great job showing how classroom concepts like force, motion, momentum, velocity, and g-forces connect to a real-world career that many kids already find exciting."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 Stars
The illustrations throughout the book are exceptional, as they are throughout every book in Linda Soules So You Want To Be A… series. My favorite scenes were the ones where people were actually riding the roller coasters. You can see the joy and excitement on their faces, which makes the book feel even more fun. I think kids will connect with those moments because they capture the feeling of being on a ride."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 Stars
"This is a well-structured, creative, and informative book for children who love roller coasters, engineering, theme parks, or simply learning how amazing things are made. The colorful artwork and short sections make it approachable, while the real-world details give it lasting educational value. It would be a great addition to a classroom library, especially for science units on force and motion, and it is also a wonderful choice for families with curious kids."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 Stars
"So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer by Linda Soules introduces readers to the science and creativity behind designing thrilling rides...Linda Soules blends technical ideas with examples, helping readers understand how physics shapes each moment of a ride. Illustrations reinforce the text by showing track designs, testing processes, and riders' expressions, helping young readers grasp complex concepts. The structure builds logically, moving from imagination to design, testing, and real-world application, mirroring the creation of a roller coaster. Readers who enjoy engineering, design, or amusement parks may find the book especially appealing, particularly those curious about how thrilling experiences are carefully planned."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer also invites readers to observe the world around them with curiosity, encouraging creative thinking and an interest in how ideas can become real experiences."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
So You Want To Be A Shark Researcher
"The rare kids' nonfiction book that refuses to talk down to its reader."
— BookBelow
"Equal parts invitation and wake-up call: sharks are magnificent, misunderstood, and disappearing, and curiosity can be a real kind of help."
— BookBelow
"Soules starts with the dream — blue water, ancient predators, big questions — then steadily replaces movie-myth fear with field reality: tagging operations, long hours of data entry, patient observation, and the sobering math of conservation."
— BookBelow
"A smart, stirring place to begin."
— BookBelow
So You Want To Be An Astronaut
"A highly recommended introduction to a world of possibilities beyond our own."
— C.R. Hurst, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"What I appreciated most about So You Want To Be An Astronaut is its ability to speak honestly in an age-appropriate manner for its intended readers."
— C.R. Hurst, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"So You Want To Be an Astronaut pairs rigor with wonder for readers ten to twelve. Linda Soules writes as if she is beside a kid at the window: the dream is real, the work is hard, the sky still calls."
— BookBelow
"If someone asked what the book covers, I would trace it like a long answer over coffee. It opens on the pull to leave Earth, then moves into real preparation: candidate years, jets, the big pool, Russian, emergency drills. The middle is station life: science in weightlessness, maintenance, spacewalks, the suit as a small spacecraft, daily noise and habit. The launch reads almost tactile: countdown, shaking, high g, then silence and a drifting pencil. Soules keeps the harder truths in frame (long waits, strained bodies, months away from home) beside the wonder (Overview Effect, cupola light, dreams of wind and grass). Brief nods to Gagarin, Jemison, and Tereshkova sit near the end, where the tone turns toward what a curious kid can start doing now."
— BookBelow
"For a child who already looks up at night, this is a grounded companion. It explains the path in plain steps, without dulling the reason anyone looks up at all."
— BookBelow
So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer
"One of the best books for any preteen or young teenager who is a video game aficionado."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"An enlightening book that sheds light on the world of video game creators. Highly recommended."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"It stays positive and inspiring without pretending the career is easy."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 stars
"It does a nice job showing that game design isn't just sitting around playing games all day. The book breaks down the real work behind the scenes, from building mechanics and stories to working with artists, engineers, writers, and sound designers."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 stars
"This is a great pick for any kid who talks about wanting to make video games someday. It gives them encouragement, but also gives them a realistic look at what it takes."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan (5 stars)
So You Want To Be A Pilot
"The voice is steady and confident, with sentences that read like you're watching a scene out the cockpit window."
— BookBelow
"It's the kind of book curious kids can grow into."
— BookBelow
So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter
"So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter is a detailed, engaging, and refreshingly realistic introduction to the world of paleontology."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 stars
"Rather than presenting dinosaur hunting as a fast-paced adventure where discoveries happen overnight, this children's book shows young readers what the work is really like: patient, careful, physically demanding, and deeply rewarding."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 stars
"Informative, thoughtful, and inspiring. It is a great read for curious kids, dinosaur lovers, future scientists, and families who enjoy nonfiction books that invite big conversations."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan (5 stars)
"I really enjoyed how the author makes paleontology look so appealing as a career. It offers a lens through which we can learn about Earth's history."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"A great educational book for children. Highly recommended."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
So You Want To Be A Veterinarian
"For any child who loves animals, So You Want To Be A Veterinarian is the perfect starting place for fueling big career dreams."
— The Children's Book Review
"Detailed, factual description about the highs and lows of the job, the skills and training needed to succeed, and even what a typical day on the job might look like."
— The Children's Book Review
"Without talking down to young readers, Linda Soules emphasizes that love for animals and scientific accuracy are necessary to succeed in this profession... Highly recommended for anyone who wants to know what it takes to be a vet, including kids, parents, and educators."
— S. Mathur, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"So You Want To Be A Veterinarian by Linda Soules is well researched and addresses the practical and emotional demands of this career."
— S. Mathur, Readers' Favorite (5 stars)
So You Want To Be A Scientist
"So You Want To Be A Scientist doesn't just cover the fundamentals of being a scientist; it also delves into the different types of challenges scientists face throughout their careers. Author Linda Soules has done a fantastic job with the 'So You Want To Be A... series of picture books so far. And this book continues to be as informative, engaging, and fun as the previous installments. Children will find it both educational and entertaining...I have enjoyed every book in this series, and this one follows the trend. It's a must-have on the bookshelf for anyone with children."
— Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"The rare science book that feels inspiring and rigorously grounded. It doesn't talk down to kids; it trains their 'why?' into a habit of noticing, testing, and thinking clearly."
— BookBelow
"I'd hand this to a kid who loves asking 'why?' and doesn't want the conversation to end."
— BookBelow
So You Want To Be A Marine Biologist
"Most career books for kids simply explain what a job is. This one goes further."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 stars
"Readers get a real look at the work behind the wonder: early dive briefings, research vessels, lab work, data analysis, coral bleaching, ocean conservation, and the patience it takes to study animals and ecosystems that don't operate on human schedules."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 stars
"Highly recommended for ocean-loving kids, future scientists, and any young reader who has ever stood at the edge of the water and wondered what is out there."
— Thomas Anderson, Editor in Chief, Literary Titan, 5 stars
"A thoroughly detailed book that will inspire young readers to consider this career path, or at least, to interest and educate them on the importance of the ocean and what lives within."
— Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"A fascinating and informative read."
— Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"Linda Soules’s 'So You Want to Be a Marine Biologist' serves as an essential, practical primer for middle-grade readers. The book’s primary strength is its ability to balance the inherent wonder of the ocean with the rigorous reality of scientific labor."
— Printed Word Reviews
“'So You Want to Be a Marine Biologist' is an empowering STEM resource. It successfully demystifies a complex field, replacing a 'distant dream' with a concrete, actionable career path. It is ideally suited for classroom units on ecosystems or career-focused nonfiction collections, successfully transitioning the reader from a curious observer to an informed aspirant."
— Printed Word Reviews
So You Want To Be A Chef
"Linda Soules treats kids like capable learners and makes cooking feel meaningful, not just fun."
— BookBelow
"The book's respect for the reader is its biggest strength."
— BookBelow
"She's refreshingly honest about the hard parts too: food will burn, seasoning will go wrong, and feedback can sting. Instead of turning that into drama, she frames it as part of learning, which is exactly the message most kids need."
— BookBelow
"For a kid who loves cooking shows, asks to help in the kitchen, or just enjoys learning how things work, this book can be the nudge that turns interest into a real habit. It's practical, encouraging, and thoughtfully bigger than recipes."
— BookBelow
"Linda Soules’s writing guides the reader step by step through a complex profession in an engaging way. Vivid examples and everyday language help explain technical ideas such as timing, taste, and kitchen organization. Short sections and thoughtful transitions keep the story steady and easy to follow, while the consistent focus on real kitchen experiences adds authenticity. The illustrations complement the text, making it easier for young readers to comprehend."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"Readers who enjoy learning how things work will find this approach appealing, especially those curious about food and creativity. The combination of practical advice and reflective moments makes So You Want to Be a Chef enjoyable for young readers who are beginning to think about their interests."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
So You Want To Be An Explorer
"Soules' writing is clear, energetic, and full of 'you can do this' momentum. The best pages feel like a coach and a storyteller teamed up."
— BookBelow
"It reminds kids (and parents) that exploration isn't over. It's in the deep ocean, under our feet, up in the treetops, and in tiny worlds we can't see without tools."
— BookBelow
"It's a strong pick for families who want a nonfiction read that nudges kids off the screen and into noticing the real world."
— BookBelow
So You Want To Be A Surgeon
"So You Want To Be A Surgeon by Linda Soules is a standout children's non-fiction book because it balances the exciting details of surgery with the very real emotional resilience the job demands. I was particularly impressed by the section on the Morbidity and Mortality Conference, which shows that even the best doctors have to be honest about mistakes to keep getting better."
— David Jaggart, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"This book is a goldmine for kids who are very serious about medicine. It’s an educational, realistic, and hopeful guide to a life-saving career. Very highly recommended."
— David Jaggart, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"Linda Soules combines detailed medical information with language that is engaging for younger audiences. The writing style is direct and serious without becoming overwhelming. The pacing alternates between explanations of surgical techniques, historical stories, and moments from a surgeon’s routine, giving the book variety. Readers who enjoy science, medicine, or problem-solving will appreciate how the book balances factual material with personal insight into the profession."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"One particularly strong element is the emphasis on teamwork and communication, showing surgery as a collaborative effort rather than the work of a single heroic figure. The tone throughout remains thoughtful and encouraging, especially in sections discussing preparation and lifelong learning. So You Want To Be A Surgeon combines educational detail with a strong sense of curiosity and respect for the subject matter. Youngsters interested in a career as surgeons will find a wealth of helpful information."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"In So You Want To Be A Surgeon, Linda Soules invites young readers directly into the quiet, high-stakes world of the operating room. Far from the chaotic drama we usually see on television, this book shines a light on the real-world patience and intense preparation required to wear scrubs. Soules guides us through the sheer variety of the field—from the delicate, microscopic world of pediatric surgery to the high-tech frontier of robotic medicine. Readers get a front-row seat to see the immense pressure of the job, showing how doctors must remain steady and make critical, split-second choices when a patient’s life is on the line. Through it all, the book beautifully demonstrates that beyond cutting-edge technology, a surgeon's absolute best asset is the calm, unshakable focus they bring to a room with zero room for error."
— Laura Imaz, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"Unlike many books for kids that only show the glossy, cartoon version of being a doctor, this book treats its young readers like real partners in learning. Instead of watering down the science, Linda Soules shares interesting facts about how our bodies work, alongside the physical stamina surgeons need just to stand and focus at an operating table for hours on end. In doing so, she provides a complete view of the profession by illustrating the technical yet emotional side of being a surgeon. She removes the traditional stereotype of being an untouchable genius by bringing attention to the everyday individuals who are behind the surgical masks. Ultimately, this is more than just a career guide; it is an inspiring call to action that will leave kids eager to discover the incredible potential of their own minds and hands."
— Laura Imaz, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
So You Want To Be A Firefighter
"So You Want To Be A Firefighter is a must-read. Not only does it treat children as equals, but it also provides truths and layers of meaning beyond just showing pictures of shiny fire trucks. This book also does a fantastic job of describing the realities of this career, the science behind how houses burn down, and how to use a Halligan bar, for example."
— Laura Imaz, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"I loved how well Linda Soules balances the technical aspects of firefighting with the emotional history of this career, which makes firefighters appear to be regular people and not just superheroes you can’t touch. This book is an excellent mix of information and entertainment for middle-graders who are interested in a serious look at this fascinating profession. This book will not only show you how to do the job, but it will also inspire you to develop your own personal resilience."
— Laura Imaz, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
So You Want To Be A Police Officer
"Linda Soules guides readers through complex ideas with an easy-to-follow approach. The pacing flows smoothly between explanations and examples. The language is straightforward yet underscores the importance of communication, judgment, and trust in the profession."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"Readers who are curious about how communities function and how people can help one another will find this approach to learning about law enforcement engaging. So You Want to Be a Police Officer presents information in an easy-to-understand way for children interested in a career in law enforcement."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
So You Want To Be An Actor
"Linda Soules’s writing is direct, balancing explanation and imagery, often pairing concise descriptions with scenes of actors in rehearsal, performance, or preparation. This approach keeps the material engaging while still informative, making it well-suited for younger readers. The pacing allows each concept to build on the last, so that by the end, the reader has a strong sense of how the different elements of acting connect."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"Children who enjoy the creative arts, performance, or storytelling will find So You Want To Be An Actor a resource for learning how the process works from the inside. Soules also provides a glossary, fun facts, and recommended reading for those interested in further exploring a career in acting."
— Carol Thompson, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
So You Want To Be A Spy (Intelligence Agent)
"So You Want to Be A Spy by Linda Soules is a short book, but she packs in a wealth of knowledge. Besides listing the different departments in a secret service, she tells young readers what qualities are needed to be successful in this career. There are exercises to practice skills, further reading material to follow up, and the real truth to explain spy craft."
— Lucinda E. Clarke, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
"I was so impressed with the basic information, the down-to-earth approach, and the wealth of knowledge packed into the pages. The language is easy, the points are clearly set down, with a behind-the-scenes look at what work a spy really does. This is an excellent book for young people, and I highly recommend it. A series that should be in every school library."
— Lucinda E. Clarke, Readers' Favorite, 5 stars
So You Want To Be A Singer
"For any child who has ever belted out a chorus in the shower or wondered how their favorite pop star hits those soaring high notes, Linda Soules’ 'So You Want To Be A Singer' serves as a vital, backstage pass to the reality of vocal artistry. This nonfiction middle-grade title successfully de-mystifies the 'magic' of talent, replacing it with the empowering reality of craft, discipline, and self-care."
— Printed Word Reviews
"Soules begins with a grounding premise: your voice is a birthright, but a professional singer’s voice is a built instrument. By centering the narrative on the physical body, the book teaches readers that singing is as much about biology as it is about melody. The book excels at explaining complex concepts, like how the diaphragm powers sound and how the shape of the mouth creates resonance, in language accessible to its 9–12-year-old target audience. It frames the 'protagonist' not as a specific character, but as the reader themselves: an aspiring artist standing on the threshold of a serious pursuit."
— Printed Word Reviews
"The book highlights the unique vulnerabilities of the singer, noting how external factors like weather and internal factors like stress can silence a performer. This section doubles as a gentle lesson in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), as caring for the voice is presented as inseparable from caring for the self. The inclusion of potential setbacks, such as vocal nodules or the pressure of the commercial music industry, adds a layer of refreshing honesty rarely seen in middle-grade career guides."
— Printed Word Reviews
"The book provides a wealth of practical guidance that transforms 'vague talent' into 'daily practice.'"
— Printed Word Reviews
"'So You Want To Be A Singer' is perfectly paced for its audience. The short, punchy sections and clear subheads make it an ideal classroom resource or a gift for a music-curious child."
— Printed Word Reviews
"Soules concludes with a moving resolution: training doesn’t change who you are; it reveals the fullest version of your true voice. It is an inspiring, clear-eyed, and deeply respectful guide to one of the world's oldest forms of communication. Recommended for school libraries, choir rooms, and any young reader ready to take their voice seriously."
— Printed Word Reviews
"If you have a child who is constantly singing into a hairbrush or dreaming of the big stage, So You Want To Be A Singer by Linda Soules is the perfect roadmap for them. Soules treats the voice as a fascinating, living machine made of muscle and air, making the science of the diaphragm and larynx easy for children to grasp. The narrative explores the padded walls of a recording booth to the bright lights of a massive arena, showing exactly what happens behind the scenes. Kids will learn about the tools of the trade, like why singers use pop filters or how in-ear monitors help them hear over a loud band. It doesn’t avoid the hard work either, detailing the daily scales, the importance of hydration, and the team of coaches and engineers who help a star shine. It turns the mystery of professional music into a tangible, exciting reality while teaching kids to respect their voices."
— Richard Prause, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
"So You Want To Be A Singer by Linda Soules is a fantastic non-fiction guide for children who want to take their passion for music to the next level. Soules’s engaging approach keeps the book moving with great energy and clear writing. The author has a really friendly way of explaining things, making complex science—like how your vocal cords actually vibrate—sound like an exciting but educational lesson. What’s great for kids is how the book balances fun aspects, like singing in huge arenas, with the reality of taking care of your body, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated. One thing is certain: the fun facts section is a real game-changer and will definitely have young readers repeating trivia about synchronized heartbeats at the dinner table. This is a fun, encouraging guide that treats young performers with respect. It is a must-read for any parent who wants to support their child's musical journey with some informative, real-world knowledge."
— Richard Prause, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars
So You Want To Be A Voice Actor
"I really enjoyed So You Want to Be a Voice Actor by Linda Soules. This is the second book in the series that I've read, and I was excited to see another career explained in such a thoughtful way. It was packed with information, but it never felt overwhelming. It actually got me thinking about how I read aloud to students and even brought back memories of my dad reading to my brother and me. Before starting this one, I hadn't given much thought to what a voice actor's day would be like, which often includes recording alone without other actors and taking care of their voices and throats. From an educator's perspective, this would be a great addition to a classroom library, especially during a careers unit, because it opens kids' eyes to a job they may not have considered before. The illustrations are so vibrant and lifelike. They will keep children engaged from beginning to end. My favorite is early on with the wizard—it really pulls you in. Overall, I think this is a fun (maybe even magical) read that even taught me something new. Fans of creative, behind-the-scenes books will love this detailed but enjoyable look at voice acting."
— Jennifer Senick, Readers' Favorite, 5 Stars