Snake Milker and Other Animal Jobs

Selected for the CBC October 2024 Hot Off The Press List.

"Grades 1-4 This high-interest title is sure to delight animal-loving kids with its descriptions of fascinating--and sometimes messy--jobs with animals. With adorable, often hilarious pastel illustrations, each page here depicts someone at work helping an animal, with many of the jobs very unexpected. The snake milker, for instance, "must safely get deadly venom . . . by firmly grasping the snake's head and pressing it against the neck of a glass bottle." Also discussed, all in pseudo job ads, are similarly unexpected jobs, such as dog-yoga instructor, a hot walker (who helps horses to cool down after a race), and a cat-cafe barista. Better-known careers are covered too, with niche aspects helpfully included; children interested in medical care of animals can read about careers in veterinary science such as animal dentist or psychologist. Fascination aside--and there's plenty of that here--it will be valuable for libraries to have at hand a book that describes many jobs with animals that don't require lengthy education and expense. Though there are no source notes or references, this is still lots of fun." —Booklist

"Cute, funny, and educational. My family loves to read things that are fun and educational and this book makes a good fit for us. The appearance is fun and bright and set up like a job search forum." —Ray Layne, NetGalley-Reviewer

"Read with my 7 year old who loves animals. There were many jobs described here that we've never heard of so that was really fun. The illustrations are beautiful and kept our attention. Will be reading again and again!" —Sara A., NetGalley-Reviewer

"The illustrations in this book were SO cute, & I was immediately drawn in by the adorableness of the animals. This isn't a book with a plot, just a list of animal professions. It is super fun though! I can see how little animal lovers would immediately fall in love with this one!" —Ande Davidson, NetGalley-Reviewer

"Super fun and cute book! This book will no doubt keep kids entertained for hours. This is due to the author's fun and informal (in a good way) writing style, and the illustrator's attention to detail (ex. funny bits of dialogue or animals in the background doing things). Additionally, every page was organized very nicely. I didn't feel overwhelmed or uninterested at any point in the book, and I really enjoyed reading this book. "Snake Milker and Other Animal Jobs" will definitely inspire kids to become invested in animal-related jobs and will quickly become a favorite." —NetGalley-Reviewer

"What an interesting premise for a children's book. Kids are always intrigued by animals and this book gives them 28 fun jobs that involve animal care, training, and interactions. Children can read the entire book or just read the jobs that interest them. It would be a great book to read with adult and discuss job descriptions and traits needed to do those jobs well. I would recommend this for kids ages 6-9 who love all kinds of animals." —Deb Kiley, NetGalley-Educator

"An adorable picture book that explores unusual jobs. This book is definitely fun with lots of love for animals. It is great in that it encourages children to think outside the box of what jobs they may consider doing one day!" —Mary S., NetGalley-Librarian
"Very cute book. This is a great book for animal lovers to get them to think outside the box and look at ways to build a career around animals." —NetGalley-Librarian

"Entertaining and educational. I was surprised by the array of jobs—some absolutely necessary, others a bit comical. Great art and a clean, aesthetically pleasing layout. This book was a fun read and a good learning experience." —Erica B., NetGalley-Reviewer

"Several well-known and a few unique animal professions brighten each page and are sure to make readers smile. This is a bright and energetic guide into the world of professions surrounding animals. This is a fun and informative book, which will grab more than just animal fans' attentions. While there are some familiar jobs (dog walker), there are also ones which will surprise such as Baby Ostrich Sitter. It expands horizons in an entertaining way and will probably have some readers running off to share some of the information with others. The illustrations add to the atmosphere and also help with clarification. It's an enjoyable book which balances humor and information in an entertaining way." —Tonja R Drecker, blogger

"This captivating book features a delightful blend of engaging illustrations and imaginative ideas, all centered around unique careers related to animals. With a total of 28 captivating examples, this book offers a delightful exploration of unusual animal-related jobs. Kids will love it!" —kayckay bookreviews, IG