Book excerpt: In 1959, John L. Holland introduced a theory of vocational choices, which is still used today. It embraces a personality typology involving six models (widely known as the Holland Code, or RIASEC). Here in this new publication, readers will finally see Holland's previously unpublished autobiography and appreciate this antidote for imperfect secondary accounts of the theory.This long-awaited book provides counseling practitioners, counselor educators, researchers, vocational psychologists and students with: 1) a clear and concise understanding of the Holland Theory and its implications for practice, 2) a snapshot of John Holland's life-long effort to establish the efficacy of the theory, and 3) an appreciation for the life of an accomplished theoretician and researcher and his impact on the counseling profession.