An attractive picture book that presents a wealth of information, I Want to Be a Firefighter is a comprehensive look at the career and history of fighting fires. Every two-page spread features a new topic, from urban firefighters to wildland fire fighting. The topics are written in language appropriate to the reading level, told with a warm voice, and accompanied by multiple photographs to further illuminate the subject. Young readers are encouraged to understand and appreciate this dangerous profession, the dedication and discipline involved, and its wide application.

The book has many positive qualities, as described above. The author avoids information overload, and the publisher packages the text and photographs with bright colors, appealing fonts, and creative juxtapositions. A look at the acknowledgments reveals that a great deal of research was involved, and a reference section at the end of the book points children to further study. A table of contents would benefit the book, and the history section was too unwieldy. Nonetheless, this is a great book to use to teach children about firefighting, or as part of a series of books introducing kids to different career possibilities. ( )