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★★★★★
From an involved Dad, please read.
I was motivated to write this review after reading another review with 400+ helpful ratings, but with 2 stars. That review is a gross misrepresentation of this book. This book IS NOT a replacement for parents. I've attached a photo of the 1st section that tells the young reader to speak to the parents. And it reminds the reader of this throughout the book. The 2 star review also states that this book is a "do this, dont do that" style, and encourages the reader to be sneaky. Far from the truth. The book mentions that when you wake up with an erection, it's ok to hide the presence of it from others in the house. The morning erection is normal, and if it is embarrassing, it's ok to not show it to everyone. Having numerous morning wood encounters myself, I agree. I still conceal my erections with modesty, especially in front of other family members and in public. There are plenty of "Do" and "Do Not" snippets. These are bullet points for some topics that are merely getting to the point, opposed to beating around the bush or dragging out an unnecessary explanation. So here's my review of the actual book now, I hope it helps. I have 2 sons that are prepubescent. I am a very involved Dad and my wife does a great job in the areas she can when dealing with boy's puberty.
The book is a great resource for curious boys. It explains a lot of things that seem like common sense to an adult, but are yet that way for a 10 yr old. The content is laid out so that it can become common sense for the young man. It does a great job of explaining that there are several different types of experiences, unique to each boy. This is constantly reinforced through the various topics. A great reminder that there is no right way or one way or better way, while the body is changing. It establishes that their individual changes are just fine and normal.
There is a lot focused on hygiene and with good detail. From washing your face, hair, teeth, pits, ears, skin and more. It explains common differences for each area and how to address each based on the boys type. Ex, oily skin vs dry, or short, long, curly , or straight hair.
The book spends a good deal about hygiene and the importance of taking care of the body, clothes, eating right, exercising and vitamins. One of my boys is growing quicker than the other, and it happens to be the younger one. This book does a good job of reinforcing to my older son that his natural changes are irrelevant to his brothers. And although his younger brother may be growing faster, he is gaining muscle and form quicker than his younger. As Dads (I'm guessing for moms too, in their own way), we have to be very cautious and aware of the differences in our boys development. Some things will apply identical to both of my boys (or their peers), while most will apply uniquely to each boy. This book carries that message throughout the pages. Like I touched on earlier, it also encourages the boys to reach out to their parents, family and doctors when they have questions, concerns or just want clarification or to discuss.
My 10 year old is really enjoying the book. Sometimes we read it together, sometimes just him and mom, sometimes just the two brothers and sometimes by himself. It mostly sits on the back of the toilet tank, so he gets to read daily in private. I have always maintained an open and non-judgemental dialog with my boys. That is far more important than any book in existence. But having this book has encouraged my prepubescent son to continue exploring, discussing and researching about himself. Changing into a teen has many scary or uncertain aspects. This book is helping to alleviate some of that. I strongly recommend this book. When giving it, let them know that this is THEIRS and to be comfortable in reading it, and most importantly to discuss parts of it with them.
Thanks for your time.
August 2019 · Books