This 128 book is packed with information from the basics like starting a business and deciding on your direction to more detailed information on the different types of careers you can focus on such as writing, teaching, and selling our work. There's also a section on other less obvious outlets such as designing crafts, developing products, and demonstrating in stores. I particularly liked that section because it is something you don't often see addressed.
McCall's does not attempt all of this information on her own. She includes informational narratives dozens of other artists who making a living with their arts and crafts. Along with their personal experiences you'll find lots of their work sprinkled throughout the text as well.
For those looking for lots of answers to lots of questions, you'll find a ton of information in this book. It is not just inspirational, so expect to do some actual reading unlike you might be used to in most craft books these days that are primarily graphic based.
Comparing my own experience as a professional crafter with what I've read in the book, I agree with much of what McCall talks about. And, while she covers a huge amount of information, the only hole I saw was that of electronic media. There is a short part on web sites and blogs as promotional tools, but that was about it. I realize it could probably fit in its own book and the information can become dated very easily, but that is just an area I would have liked to see expanded in the book.
Considering the price of this book and loads of information it has, I think it is a good investment for anyone who needs a place to start his or her journey into professional jewelry making and/or crafting.
