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

"There is so much to learn in this book that not only details lots of different animals and what types of jobs are needed to help them out, but also focuses on the power of taking responsibility and doing something that is not only engaging, but motivating." —Beth Rodgers, YA Books Central

"This gorgeous picture book is all about the various jobs that work with animals. My students love it. I recommend it to other elementary libraries, public libraries, and personal collections." —Lauren Kessel-Kent Elementary, Librarian

"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

"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

"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

"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