The words on the page flow like poetry and demonstrate to people who identify as boys that they can be gentle, sensitive and kind. Often they are told to be tough in order to be a "boy" - we are often given messages about our gender from very young ages and sometimes kids don't necessarily fit the mold. They get taunted and made to feel as if something is wrong with them because they are quiet, thoughtful or sweet, even.

This book will help children who demonstrate feelings in ways that may not be stereotypically identified as associated with being a "boy". It will show them that it's okay to be different and to feel things and demonstrate their feelings.



Thank you to Flux!, Jolly Fish Press, and NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book in an electronic ARC format.

Had the chance to read this through an advanced copy and what a treat it was! This picture book has beautiful illustrations. It follows a father and son through vast landscapes and tells the story of how true strength in manhood can be found in kindness, patience, and quietness. It opposes the loud, obnoxious “manly manhood”narrative in a captivating way. This is a must add to your children’s library, especially if you have a boy.

I'm a trans man so growing up nobody teached me how to be boy or a man. I kinda just teached myself by observing others. And even tho I wasn't teached these things as a child I could relate to everything mentioned in the book. Every word hit on a deep level. Plus the art was just gorgeous.