I have to say, I’m really not one for non-fiction; especially not instructional, get-your-stuff-together ones. Capture Your Career was the first one I’ve read in a while without being forced – and I truly enjoyed it. Marie L. Saul’s e-book is true to its title – it is most definitely a PRACTICAL guide. After I read it (which was all in one sitting), I knew it was one I wanted to recommend. It’s not the type of book that only applies to fresh-faced high school seniors (no offense to them). But anyone thinking of a second career or even reviving their current position can take a lot of way from this quick read.

Fortunately and unfortunately, many of us spend our lives working to earn money. What Saul’s book opens reader’s eyes to is to the possibility of actually enjoying your occupation. A novel idea, for many of us, huh? For those "stuck” in a place career-wise that they would rather not be in, the tools this short read offers provide an escape for that rut. She suggests that our passions in life aren’t accidental and that we should play to our strengths.

I also appreciated how each chapter was followed by a short summary and questions and pointers for the reader to review. This makes the book not just a source of information, but a practical nudge toward finding and nourishing their passion. For instance, Chapter 7: Persevere, in which Saul encourages readers not to give up in their search for the ideal (not perfect!) position, ends with: 

Saul was concise, yet she included enough detail to not only draw you in, but allow you to walk away having learned something. Inserting lessons from her own journey into her prescriptions, the book doesn’t read as if she’s a no-nonsense teacher wagging her finger and peering impatiently over bifocals. You’re left feeling like she earnestly just wants to share her life experience and provide a little encouragement and direction . The concept of faith’s influence on our career goals isn’t abandoned either, all the while not coming off as overbearing or offensive to those who may not share her beliefs. This book can apply to anyone. It’s a book definitely worth reading more than once. Even if you find that you are completely satisfied in your career, you may still take away something that can be a source of inspiration and direction to someone else. Better yet, just tell them to read the book for themselves. It will be well worth their time, I assure you.

And yes, I will be reading it again soon. Thanks, Marie!

Shari Grant is a Registered Nurse in South Florida, where she was raised in a (very!) Jamaican home. Some of the loves of her life are words (both reading and writing them) and missions work. She enjoys spending time with friends and family while living for a good laugh - one that makes her belly ache and her eyes water. Her bottom line goal in life is to make the Lord smile and maybe even serve Him up a chuckle from time to time, too.