Thank you readers for all your great feedback—your warm and encouraging words have fueled my journey with energy and inspiration!

★ "I just wanted to offer my most sincere thank you to your efforts and skill in forming your Back Door Guide. I will try to keep this short because I could go on for days about your book and its wonderful effects on my life. Since a friend introduced this book to me about 1 1/2 years ago I have spent my life on the road living from opportunities in your book. I am currently at the Omega Institute listed under spiritual journeys and having the time of my life. Your book is one of the possessions I never leave at home—even if it means that many other things must be left behind. You are a modern day saint and deserve to be rewarded for your efforts in karma, money, and love forever. Please keep your cult classic alive and hold a yearly festival for us nomads living off of your book."
—Brad, New York

★ "Your book came at a great time. I had, years ago, seen something about your book on Amazon.com and had written the name of your book down in my "adventure file" and had re-stumbled upon it. Suddenly I was reading about people who had lived similar lives, and reading about opportunities to explore and experiment all over the world and I felt okay. It's an odd thing, we are told we have options but many don't explore them. It's harder. For me, it's harder NOT to explore them because everything in me is telling me to go... now! Anyway I just wanted to jot a note of thanks off to you. Your book is a wonderful tribute to those who need something different."
—Esther, Connecticut

★ "I bought your book a few days ago, and I am blown away. You say many amazing things, especially in the first chapter. I have felt like my dreams were unreasonable for so long (I am only 23, so not that long, but long enough). I think so many people would like to see the world, but their desire to lead a stable and secure life is greater than their sense of adventure. Lo and behold, the point to my email... THANKS for your book, it has inspired me to shoot for the stars, go for the gold... and ultimately to do what I want despite the odds."
—Rebecca, Texas

★ "I gotta tell you that you haven't just given me the opportunity to have an adventure, you saved my sanity also. Coming right out of high school, I wanted anything but to go right back to school again; but as you probably know, options for kids right out of high school tend to be pretty limited. But looking through your book, I found the perfect thing for myself: St. Elizabeth Shelter in New Mexico, interning at a homeless shelter. I wrote them a letter, explaining my interests, they sent me an application, they offered, I accepted, and the rest is history. But it's all thanks to you and your efforts in research. Some day I suppose I'll have to settle down and go to college, but with your book, it looks like it'll be a while be I absolutely have to. Really, you have no idea what a savior this book has been in my life. Thank you so much."
—Janeel, Washington

★ "You have written one of the most fabulous, exciting, helpful, invigorating and extraordinary books. I love it and I've only skimmed it. It is a great starting point in my research process. The quotes and stories only add to its contents. Thank you for taking the time to put together a book in such a creative and info-packed fashion. I will recommend it to anyone who has the same adventurous spirit as myself."
—Lindsay, itching for a "real world" experience

★ "The book you have created has been extremely successful for our staff and crew members. We have developed a resume/job finding workshop based upon the information that is in the book. Staff and crew members use it all the time looking for work after they are done with the VYCC (and a couple of the staff even said it's their bible for looking for exciting jobs)! We not only depend on your services when it comes to looking for staff but also educating and training our staff that are already on board. Your support on many different levels has been greatly appreciated!"
—Gaylen, Vermont Youth Conservation Corps

★ "Hello! Your book "Short-Term Job Adventures" has become my constant companion and a source of much conversation between me and near strangers, who snatch it and start reading with great interest. I think it taps a yearning in us all. Many, many thanks to you for writing it!"
—Kristin, Virginia

★ "Hello Michael! I love your book! Thank you so much for your time and effort in putting together such a useful and creative book! I first came across your book in the local public library searching for volunteer opportunities and other interesting adventures. I went out and purchased a copy from Borders Books because I wanted to have one of my own. Thanks for the inspiration and wealth of information!"
—Maureen, Adventurer

★ "I'm writing to say thank you wholeheartedly for the great effort and spirit you have put into your book, The Back Door Guide to Short-Term Job Adventures. Knowing I was in the middle of a big transition in my life and had not a real clear picture of where I was headed, a good friend sent me a copy of your book just in time for my 25th birthday—yahoo a perfect gift! Since then, I have applied to several of the resorts and organic farms listed in the guide, and have found links to many other sources of exciting and inspirational potential work options. After going gung-ho on the meaty middle of the guide, I finally sat down and read the intro chapters last night. Again, a huge thank you. I really appreciate your personal insights and the many wonderful quotes you selected for the pages. It's sort of funny that reading words on a page can have such a big impact or provide such a source of encouragement, but it really does. Somehow you feel a strong, intimate connection with the speaker, and you're buoyed and refocused and energized all over again! I think I'll write a lot of my favorites down in my journal so I can have them with me at a glance on my travels. Please know that your work has been a delightful source of direction for me at this point in my life."
—Catharine, Hawaii

★ "I wanted to let you know what an inspiration your book is to me. I found it at Barnes and Noble and didn't put it down for 3 hours! I told my Mom and my best friend about it, so now we all have our own copy. THANK YOU so much for sailing away from your safe harbor and catching the trade winds of your sail. I know you touch a lot of people. Heck, I can't stop talking about this book to everyone! Although, I know it's NOT for everyone—just the people who really want to feel alive! I especially loved the poem The Climb, by Phyllis Trussier. That's when it all started to click. Thank you again for your time, wisdom, and hard work on and in this book. From the bottom of my heart..."
—Kirstin, Florida

★ "I have read your book about short-term job adventures and wanted to tell you you are a dream come true. I have been praying for a way to find out about exciting jobs in the summer and your book was a Godsend. I believe summers should be about passionate experiences and I will do whatever it takes to find that perfect job."
—Kristen, Texas

★ "I ordered a copy of the Back Door Guide when I was doing a lot of job searching while working as an assistant park manager for the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps during the summer. At that point in my life I considered myself as an expert off-the-beaten-path job searcher and was doubtful that any job guide could provide me with novel inspiration in my quest. However, your book exceeded my expectations. It is the best resource for meaningful employment that I have stumbled upon in my years of seasonal work (and thus, frequent job searches). Thanks for providing such a valuable resource."
—Jenna, Vermont Youth Conservation Corps

★ "The Back Door Approach: Discover Life's Options! Michael Landes has brilliantly put together an inspiring and comprehensive resource for students, career changers and even retired folks to get the most out of life through taking the Back Door Approach. The Back Door Guide to Short-Term Job Adventures is a reference book of A-Z ideas that encourages the reader to explore the many doors of opportunity that internships, short-term jobs and volunteering have to offer. Landes' enthusiastic approach to life serves as a motivating force for the rest of us who just need the right push to get out there and follow our dreams! He gives the soul-searching reader tips on discovering her or his best talents and how to put them to use in over 1,000 types of mind-expanding experiences. By breaking down the book's content into specific areas of interest, such as Adventure Careers, The Great Outdoors and Abroad Adventures, Landes enables the reader to have a better understanding of choices and potential directions. Participating in just one of the many programs listed will open doors for you and change your life in ways you never thought possible. Taking part in internships and short-term work experiences was simply the best thing I could have done for myself to be able to live out my dreams! I participated in the a career training internship in Germany sponsored by CDS International which opened doors for me to live and work in five different countries and discover more of what the world has to offer! This book is an essential resource for anyone in transition or anyone who wants to live life to the fullest!"
—Elizabeth, an expatriate now living and working in Germany

★ "A great big thank you for your wonderful guide book. When I began researching an overseas excursion, I was thrilled to find your book because it was EXACTLY what I was looking for. Your book was instrumental in my recent trip to Ireland. Alliances Abroad hooked me up with a homestay in Dublin where I had the most incredible time exploring, writing, and taking photographs. I always thought I was alone in my desire to pack up and spend an extended period of time overseas to experience another country as more than a simple tourist. When I announced I was quitting my job and traveling to Ireland alone, I was certain that everyone would scoff and give me a slew of reasons not to go. Instead, I was greeted with congratulatory words, best wishes, and even envy. Thanks again for the book and the endless possibilities it provides. I am so glad I am not alone!"
—Lorie, Illinois

★ "If you use this book one time it will pay for itself. The book is well researched and more importantly, extremely inspirational. If you want to get out of where you are living and/or get actively involved in social causes and/or expose yourself to new and exciting experiences and/or find an internship to really give you a competitive edge and some valuable life experience... it has to be in this book. If your book search led you here... it's fate... and I'll see you when I get to Patagonia...."
—Zebrenica, USA adventurer

★ "Your book is awesome—so much more information and insight than I even expected. Me and my family have been taking turns with it, and have shown it to other adventurous souls who wanted to borrow it, but we suggested they go get their own (and they did!). The book is so BIG (in so many ways!) The quotes are so inspiring, and your honesty and insight are invaluable. You have given us such hope and inspiration along with the greatest tool—information, and TONS of it. I can't thank you enough for fueling our fire. We feel that we're on track now, and that our dreams are achievable."
—Natalie, free-lance photographer

★ "I originally purchased The Back Door Guide to Short Term Job Adventures to give to my cousin, who is graduating from high school and considering different options. He was psyched to get it, and immediately shared it with a bunch of his friends who are also searching for new direction in their lives. Before I gave it to him though, I read through the whole thing and jotted down tons of opportunities, getting really excited along the way. As it turns out, it was that day that I made the decision to leave my fantastic job in the most amazing organization I've ever worked. Your book was a catalyst for me to see the deep undercurrent of desire I have to follow my heart and my dreams. Thank you for providing such an intelligent, comprehensive, user-friendly, fun, and inspiring resource. Surely it will be a launching pad for the exploding population of pioneers today who are daring to experiment with their own lives and create their own paths."
—Barrett, The Option Institute

★ "I recently bought your book in hopes of finding a summer job. I cannot even begin to tell you how helpful and varied your material is; who would have thought so many great opportunities existed?"
—Holcomb, Montana

★ "I read your book from cover to cover and loved it!!! The holistic, positive approach you took was so inspiring. I felt completely invigorated after reading just the first few chapters. The energy, excitement, and enthusiasm you conveyed throughout the book is utterly contagious!"
—Sue, New York

★ "Since we ordered your book, it does not spend more than a few hours in the library before someone else checks it out. I gave my copy to my younger sister who is about to graduate with an MFA in creative writing poetry. She is worried about the rest of her life right now. She told me she thought it was great. And personally... well I wish it had been around when I was worried and before I knew it was OK to create your own path for life. It would have been a great comfort to hear someone else say that they felt the way I did when I graduated from college. What a wonderful message to all of us seekers out there. When I graduated from college I envied all my friends that knew what they wanted to do with their lives. It took me a long time to realize that I have done, experienced, lived and learned more by trying then I ever will by knowing. Honestly I hope I never know exactly what it is I want to do. In a few pages you made it seem OK not to know... I think that will be helpful to a lot of people."
—Stacy, Franklin College

★ "Thank you... your 'short-term job adventures' has rescued me! I stumbled upon it at a Borders Books, just as I was beginning to feel hopeless about my post-college job search. I now feel exhilarated and am already plotting which adventure to try first!"
—Susan, Pennsylvania

★ "Your book has been invaluable in giving me that initial direction on where to look into wilderness recreation and outdoor adventure jobs/internships. It has by far been the greatest help to me in my search for that 'golden' opportunity. Much continued success and happy adventures of your own!"
—Tamra, Adventurer

★ "Thanks for really caring about your readers—and for talking with me over the phone! I have never had someone take so much interest in my thoughts, ideas, and crazy summer adventures in one phone call (to a stranger no less). That really made a huge difference to me. Thanks for caring about those of us who are still in college and still have no clue what we want to be when we grow up!"
—Susan, St. Bonaventure University

★ "Your guide meets everybody's deepest job-hunting fantasy."
—Jon, Maine

★ "Wow—I just finished exploring my copy of The Back Door Guide to Short Term Job Adventures and it's great! What I especially like about your guide really has nothing to do with the adventures that you list (although they are what my students will be looking for) is the Preface, Beginning the Climb, and Your Path. I will encourage the students who use the guide to pay attention to these sections. In addition, I found the quotes to be appropriate and a nice change from straight text. The guide is very reader/student friendly. I believe your guides straightforward approach is what job seekers need. The holistic approach to the career development process is refreshing Michael. Nice job."
—Kathleen, Knox College

★ "Not only does the book offer extensive information and practical advice, it's also encouraging, inspirational, and energizing. It will give you the incentive and insight to seek out a world of fascinating opportunities."
—Lucy Izon, Travel Writer, Canada

★ "I enjoyed reading through your guidebook and I think it makes a great addition to our career library. I liked that it provides motivation and guidance, in addition to information about various opportunities. It's a rare guidebook in that it speaks to the emotion, spirit, and body, as well as the mind."
—Dinean, Hope College

★ "Your book is truly a treat to read and a great help to our office. Our staff fought over it the first days it came in. I love your creative, "through the back door", there's more than one way to get things done approach. Thanks for your great work!"
—Bonnie, Calvin College

★ "Because of you, I have stayed up VERY late reading my new book. WOW is my first impression—you have done a wonderful job!!! I love it... your writing style is very... what's the word I want... comfortable, familiar, enjoyable, relaxed. You seem so at ease with the whole 'this book will change the way you look at your life, your dreams, and who you are' issues. Love the graphics... the layout... the text! Again, you have made me a HUGE fan of your work. Now, you just have to sign it...!"
—Kelli, Oregon

★ "Thank you for putting together such an excellent resource—it's very well organized and fun to read as well! I've contacted several organizations, and, more importantly, have received a jolt of energy and enthusiasm from your book, kicking me into high gear and giving me the confidence to once again set off on the road to adventure, discovery and growth. It's a road I've traveled before, and I just needed that extra, encouraging shove to head off on it again. I'll keep you posted on my progress. Again, thank you."
—Michael, Illinois

★ "I think it's great that you've created the guide. It has enough info to get people who aren't typically risk-takers to chance taking a risk and enough inspiration and listings to give regular risk-takers a much-needed energy boost."
—Debbie, Peace Corps volunteer, now residing in San Francisco

★ "I just wanted to personally write and tell you that I think your book is great. As a short-term adventurer (currently doing a stint as a legit 9-5er, but only to finance the musical effort), I think your book is important to many of us who left college for the summer (or for graduation) and thought, 'Oh sh*t...', I wish I'd seen it prior to graduation! Good luck and continued success with your work!"
—Joshua, University of Texas at Austin

★ "Your guide has become my short-term job adventure bible! Thanks for giving me so many unique options to choose from—my whole life has changed!"
—Kate, Michigan

★ "Your guide has truly inspired my son-I believe he has now found a direction in his life. How I wish I had been exposed to such wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration when I was that age. There is no doubt in my mind that my life would have taken a much different course."
—P. Harrell, Yellowstone National Park

★ "Just got your guidebook and couldn't put it down! There is nothing else like it. You sure did your homework. I'm 80 years 'young,' in good health, and still have that wanderlust. Your guidebook is worth much, much more than you are selling if for."
—George, California

★ "Enjoyable quotes, anecdotes, and a refreshing style of conveying ideas... you can tell the author truly loves what he is doing and loves conveying ideas and inspiration to others. His experience and love for information is obvious to the reader."
—Daniel, Massachusetts

★ "The design and lay out do a great job of conveying a friendly, fun atmosphere which in turn makes the reader feel comfortable using the book. This is a good way to feel when starting a job search. The quotes on all of the pages are a nice touch as well. The first time I used The Back Door Guide to Short Term Job Adventures, I just flipped straight to what I was looking for and found exactly what I wanted very easily. This is one of the book's strengths. On subsequent readings, I discovered what a value the first part of the book is and discovered another strength."
—Nate, Adventurer

★ "I am not all the way through your guide, but it is a tremendous help, not to mention an inspiration! Needless to say I am very happy about the changes happening in my life. Thank you for your help—especially the initial 'shove' your book gave me. It pointed me in the right direction, both physically and emotionally. You provide a great service for people who are searching for something more. In the meantime, keep that great spirit of yours going strong. Thank you very much."
—Diana, South Carolina

★ "I particularly loved the beginning. Not only was I ecstatically awaiting the book and jumping for joy the day I received it, I was bursting with happiness and anticipation as I started reading it. You were able to gently pull me back to earth without squashing any of my excitement! It was filled with inspiration and practical ways to secure a fascinating world of opportunities. It's difficult for me to not become carried away in a rush of excitement, but your book has helped me progress in a sane, rational manner towards a job, even though my friends thought I was a raving lunatic!"
—Pam, New Jersey

★ "At this point in my life I finally realized that I'm just not interested in another traditional and boring job. Your guidebook exposed me to jobs and places I would love to experience and has taught me to create something unique for myself!"
—Wendy, California