Biographies Teach About Careers
Reading biographies are a powerful way to learn about what remarkable and memorable people chose to do with their lives and careers. Many biographies, written for students, share what interested the subject as a child and the connection is often obvious as to why they chose the paths they chose as an adult. This helps the student relate to character. It also opens up their minds to what their future could look like.
The best biography series for young readers I have ever seen is the “Who was…” series. These books include both contemporary and historical figures, such as, Neil Armstrong, Steve Jobs, Claude Monet, Rosa Parks and many others. My favorite, so far, is Steven Spielberg’s biography. The man has tenacity beyond words.
The books are targeted towards 8 – 12 year olds. They are illustrated with black and white line drawings, which are educational and often humorous. Don’t let the odd caricatures on the cover throw you off. These books teach history, tips for success from role models, and often what it takes to achieve significant objectives.
You can find the series here
http://www.whowasbookseries.com/who-was/
I find them in nearly every kids section in both the independent bookstores and the major booksellers.