This self-help (self-awareness) guide by Justin Baldoni, author of Man Enough, TED Talk speaker: “Why I’m Done Being Man Enough”, is addressed to boys challenging themselves to become their best, most genuine selves, despite tacit (and some explicit) “rules” about what makes boys “boys”. The book frankly discusses many topics parents may be uncomfortable taking up with their own boys.

In addition to the chapter text, the book has several features, including Gut Checks (activities meant to reinforce the chapter message), Breaking It Down (summaries of chapter discussions), sidebars highlighting subtopics such as meditation, and pull-out inspirational quotes. In addition two chapters, on body image and sex respectively, begin with a “Heads Up” intro that tells readers under age 11 that they may want to check with their parents before reading.

The message of the book is valid and important. Baldoni is trying to re (un)define masculinity and discusses important issues such as consent and identity. His personal experiences are candidly dissected for life lessons one can glean in relation to the chapter subjects. Baldoni rambles on occasion, making it difficult to keep reading. (Baldoni congratulates the reader for making it halfway through the first chapter). Most boys (and girls) could benefit from the message of the book but it reads like a book adults will hand to their boys but those boys may not be grateful recipients.

Reviewed by Deanna Contrino, Young School Librarian, Saco