The Big Book of Jobs by Hana Mokrosova: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction: A Fresh Take on Career Exploration

If you’ve ever felt lost in the maze of career choices, The Big Book of Jobs by Hana Mokrosova might just be the guiding light you need. This isn’t your typical dry career guide—it’s a visually rich, engaging, and surprisingly fun exploration of professions from all walks of life. Whether you’re a student pondering your future, a professional considering a switch, or just someone fascinated by the world of work, Mokrosova’s book offers something refreshingly different.

But does it live up to its promise? Let’s dive deep into what makes The Big Book of Jobs stand out—and whether it deserves a spot on your bookshelf.

Plot Summary: A Journey Through the World of Work

Unlike a novel, The Big Book of Jobs doesn’t follow a traditional plot. Instead, it’s structured as an illustrated encyclopedia of professions, covering everything from traditional careers like doctors and teachers to unconventional paths like ethical hackers and professional gamers.

Each job is presented with a mix of playful illustrations, key facts, and engaging descriptions that make even the most mundane professions feel exciting. The book doesn’t just list jobs—it contextualizes them, explaining what a typical day might look like, the skills required, and even quirky trivia (did you know there’s such a thing as a “professional sleeper” for mattress testing?).

While there are no spoilers here (it’s nonfiction, after all!), the book’s charm lies in its ability to surprise readers with the sheer diversity of careers available in the modern world.

Character Analysis & Development: The People Behind the Professions

Since this isn’t a narrative-driven book, there aren’t traditional “characters.” Instead, Mokrosova brings professions to life through archetypes—vivid snapshots of people in different roles.

  • The Passionate Innovator (e.g., startup founders, scientists)
  • The Quiet Specialist (e.g., archivists, forensic accountants)
  • The Bold Adventurer (e.g., wildlife photographers, stunt performers)

These archetypes help readers see themselves in these roles, making career exploration feel personal rather than abstract. The book subtly encourages self-reflection: Which of these people resonate with me?

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Playful Yet Informative

Mokrosova’s writing is clear, concise, and infused with humor. She avoids dry, textbook-like explanations, opting instead for a conversational tone that keeps readers engaged.

Key stylistic strengths:

  • Visual storytelling: The illustrations aren’t just decorative—they enhance understanding.
  • Bite-sized sections: Each job gets a dedicated spread, making it easy to flip through.
  • Interactive elements: Some pages include prompts like “Would you enjoy this?” or “What skills do you already have?”

The book feels like a hybrid between a coffee-table book and a practical guide, making it accessible to both casual browsers and serious career planners.

Thematic Exploration: More Than Just a Job List

Beneath its colorful surface, The Big Book of Jobs tackles deeper themes:

1. The Changing Nature of Work

The book acknowledges how automation and AI are reshaping careers, subtly preparing readers for a future where adaptability is key.

2. Passion vs. Practicality

Some jobs are glamorous (e.g., film director), while others are stable but less flashy (e.g., actuary). The book doesn’t push one path over another—it presents options neutrally, letting readers decide what matters most to them.

3. The Value of Unconventional Paths

By including niche jobs (e.g., “pet food taster”), Mokrosova challenges the idea that success only comes from traditional routes.

Personal Reading Experience: Why I Loved It

As someone who’s switched careers multiple times, I wish I’d had this book earlier. Here’s what stood out:

  • The “Aha!” Moments: Discovering jobs I’d never heard of (like “voice actor for GPS systems”) was delightful.
  • The Empathy Factor: Seeing jobs like “grief counselor” or “sanitation worker” presented with respect made me appreciate the invisible labor that keeps society running.
  • The Nostalgia: Some entries (e.g., “librarian”) evoked childhood dreams I’d forgotten.

It’s rare for a career guide to feel both practical and whimsical, but Mokrosova nails the balance.

Comparison to Other Career Guides

Most career books fall into two categories:

  1. Dry, data-heavy manuals (e.g., What Color Is Your Parachute?)
  2. Overly simplistic “follow your passion” pep talks

The Big Book of Jobs sits in the sweet spot—informative yet engaging, broad yet detailed. It’s closer in spirit to The Occupations Encyclopedia but with far more personality.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

✅ Visually stunning – The illustrations make it a joy to browse.
✅ Inclusive – Covers global jobs, not just Western-centric roles.
✅ Encourages curiosity – Perfect for sparking career conversations with kids or teens.

Weaknesses:

❌ Not super in-depth – If you want salary stats or step-by-step guides, you’ll need supplemental resources.
❌ Some jobs feel outdated – A few entries (e.g., “fax machine repairer”) seem like relics of the past.

Who Should Read This Book?

  • Students & young adults exploring career options
  • Parents/teachers looking for a fun way to discuss careers
  • Career changers seeking inspiration
  • Anyone who loves quirky trivia about jobs

It’s not for readers who want a rigid, step-by-step career plan—this is more about exploration than execution.

Memorable Quotes & Passages

“A job isn’t just what you do—it’s how you see yourself in the world.”

“Some of the most important jobs are the ones nobody notices until they’re gone.” (On sanitation workers)

Cultural & Historical Context

The book reflects 21st-century work trends, including:

  • The rise of remote work
  • The gig economy (e.g., Uber drivers, freelance designers)
  • Growing emphasis on sustainability (e.g., “urban farmer”)

It’s a snapshot of work culture in the digital age.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Career Explorers

The Big Book of Jobs is a rare gem—a career guide that’s as entertaining as it is useful. Whether you’re flipping through for fun or seriously considering a change, Mokrosova’s blend of humor, insight, and stunning visuals makes this a standout.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Loses half a star for lack of deep dives into certain fields, but otherwise exceptional.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers:

  • Which job surprised you the most?
  • Did you discover a career you’d never considered before?
  • How do you think jobs will evolve in the next decade?

Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear what you think!

Get this book on Amazon

For more great reviews and book recommendations, visit Books By Order.

For more great reviews, visit Book Book Owl.