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Self-Help
Train at Home to Work at Home:  How to Get Certified, Earn a Degree, or Take a Class from Home to Begin a Work-at-Home Career
Michelle McGarry
Writer's Club Press, an imprint of iUniverse, Inc.
ISBN 0-595-28450-7
Paperback  180 pages
$17.95

This is not just another work-at-home book, as the author herself points out. McGarry has assembled information on how to find at-home training for a work-at-home career. Her approach has resulted in a book that really takes things down to basics, giving people an idea of where, and how, to start building a career - all while being at home.

A professional editor and writer who herself has left the daily office grind behind, McGarry has used her expertise to examine a number of careers that can be done from home, or with home as a base of operations (including everything from bed-and-breakfast management and interior design to that old standby, medical transcription). She first gives the reader an overview of each career, then offers detailed lists of the kinds and costs of at-home training available. McGarry examines twenty-seven career paths in depth, and includes a listing of "out-of-the-box" career ideas. Comparing various programs, organizations, and costs, she gives the reader a sound idea of what it will cost and whether programs offer  sufficient training to "go professional."

McGarry has also included a substantial bibliography of books she considers helpful in deciding whether, or how, to pursue various careers, as well as lists of websites and associations where further information can be found. She has been thorough in her research and presents her material in clear language with an encouraging, though realistic, tone.

The author points out that the information is current because she has self-published. By using the services of an on-demand publisher, she says she has retained control over the size of the book as well as the content. She plans to update the book at regular intervals to keep information current - something very helpful to people hoping for up-to-date cost information on training programs, or looking for the newest programs available. In addition, the text is punctuated with inspirational and humorous quotes from a variety of famous people about careers, training, or the need to work for a living. The presentation is pleasing and clear, and readers will find it easy to find just what they need.

Anyone contemplating a home career but having trouble finding a convenient off-site program of study will find McGarry's no-nonsense approach helpful and rewarding.

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