Book excerpt: Three Degrees of Law has been acclaimed by professors nationally, not merely as a book for attorneys and law students. The concise guide focuses on how to be a happy and successful professional. Students will appreciate candid advice from highly regarded attorney Harlan York on how to determine if law practice is for them, and why law school has great value, even if they never "practice" law. Investment in legal education has lifelong benefit in a type of thought process. That training carries over to many fields, not just law. York - who Former World Chess Champ Garry Kasparov calls a "street fighter" - explains that contribution to law school is not merely financial. Devotion, particularly in one practice area, needs to occur. Many attorneys have jobs they hate, not due to external factors, but because of attitude. One of the biggest mistakes lawyers make is improperly measuring the bottom line. They calculate the short term. Law is a cross-country run. You climb mountains and fly downhill at breakneck speed. Great runners win, like Olympic Gold Medalist Peter Rono, who praises York. Also, Law Review does not always result in success. Enthusiasm is crucial while certain habits hurt advancement. Three Degrees of Law spells out secrets for success and enjoying law. York also details how women frequently become better attorneys than men while defeating sexism. As for the belief that a Juris Doctor predisposes one to working long days with little joy, York rejects this as myth. He explains how to find genuine passion for law. A vocational approach with concern for clients will allow you to build a career you love and will sustain you for life.