“"Your Future, Your Way: Jobs and Careers for Teenagers", by, Hannah P. Cartwright, is a refreshingly grounded guide for teens who are trying to make sense of their future without feeling boxed in or overwhelmed. Rather than pushing quick answers or trendy job titles, the book encourages readers to think about strengths, interests, and long term direction. It does a nice job of meeting teens where they are while still helping them think beyond their first job or part time work. This book especially resonated with me because I have written several books focused on the best careers for teens to study toward, not just jobs they can do right now, but paths that make sense for their future education and adult lives. I also used to host a podcast centered on careers and life direction before shifting my work toward mentoring men through male role model and character analysis. Because of that background, I appreciated how this book emphasizes exploration, self awareness, and informed decision making rather than pressure or comparison. As a former English teacher and a parent, I also liked the tone. It is clear, supportive, and realistic, without talking down to young readers. The book recognizes that not every teen has the same timeline, resources, or clarity, and it offers reassurance alongside practical information. That balance makes it useful not just for teens, but also for parents and educators who want to guide conversations about the future in a healthier way. Overall, this is a solid and encouraging career book for teens who want to start thinking intentionally about their future without feeling rushed into one narrow definition of success. It pairs well with broader conversations about education, skills, and long term planning, and it succeeds in helping young people see that their path can truly be their own. Read less”

Michele

“Your Future, Your Way: Jobs and Careers for Teenagers is exactly what a modern career guide should be—clear, practical, encouraging, and refreshingly honest. What sets this book apart is its no-pressure approach. It doesn’t push one “right” path or assume that college is the only measure of success. Instead, it helps teens explore who they are, what they enjoy, and what kind of life they want to build—without making them feel like one wrong decision will ruin their future. The guidance is realistic and easy to understand, even for teens who have no clue what they’re good at yet. It breaks down careers in a way that feels approachable, explains which jobs are likely to grow (and which might disappear), and gives concrete ideas for gaining experience right now—even without a formal job. I especially appreciated how the book handles money and family expectations. It talks openly about education costs, debt, and alternatives like trade school, while also giving teens tools to communicate their goals confidently and respectfully with parents. This book doesn’t just help teenagers choose a career—it helps them feel more confident, capable, and in control of their future. A fantastic resource for teens, and honestly, a reassuring read for parents too. ”

Mary

“A very engaging book that gives clear, direct guidance on discerning your gifts and interests, and on how to employ them in ways that benefit society and make money. As a teenage guidance counsellor, she has seen the shift away from lifelong careers and the growing need for side gigs. I suspect with AI, this trend will only increase. As a physician, though, I see a potential complicating issue. Many experts agree that the attention span of our high schoolers is decreasing (whether from video games, short-form videos, or space aliens). There can be a problem with task completion when so many activities vie for attention, without extraordinary organizational skills. So consider including this when advising our rising adults.”

Erik P. Lessmann, MD