Rose analyzes the cognitive functions necessary to successfully work in a number of fields that are often considered semi-skilled or unskilled labor, such as waiting tables, hairdressing, plumbing, and auto work. I didn't need convincing that these are all intellectually challenging jobs, as I tried my hand at waitressing and found it mentally and physically exhausting. However, the way he breaks down the skills and thought processes is fascinating, and the implications for "vocational education" or what we now call Career and Technical Education are important. I think Rose's book issues a challenge to teachers, not only in vocational subjects but in all subjects to find ways to engage and develop the minds of all of our students, no matter what their post-secondary plans might be. Additionally, we are all challenged to think more highly of our students on the so-called vocational track and to respect the work of their minds, whether or not we think they are excelling in our subject areas. However, Rose also challenges us as a society to overcome the divide between people who more highly value "book learning" and people who more highly value "real work" - in many ways this divide comes from our own defense mechanisms that come into play when we find some work challenging and perhaps beyond us. Our scorn protects us from feeling stupid or untalented. When we can appreciate all forms of intelligence perhaps we can build a happier society. Of course, Rose says all of this much better than I can, so I highly recommend his fascinating book.