FICTION

What Boys Do

by Jon Lasser (text) & illus. by Robert Paul Jr
Magination Pr. Nov. 2021. 32p. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9781433836794.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 2–Rhyming text in question format (not all of which scans well) suggests the varied ways to be a boy: “Do you share a story or something to eat? Notice your feelings when you gather and meet?” While some of the ideas are concrete, such as making rockets or art, most are abstract. “Do you nurture others by helping them grow?” is paired with an illustration of a brown-skinned boy marking the height of a friend on a wall. The line and wash illustrations with a diverse and differently abled crew of wonderfully expressive boys and girls does not save the one-note, repetitive tone of the text. A reader’s note provides suggestions for supporting boys to grow beyond traditionally gendered roles.
VERDICT The tone and intent of this title aimed at boys may be useful in a counseling environment, with the questions stimulating discussion, but for general use it is an additional purchase.
Reviewed by Ramarie Beaver , Jan 07, 2022

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Noisy Christmas: My First Touch and Feel Sound Book
by Cox, Hettie
BOOKS

Five Sparkling Snowmen: A Rhyming Count Down Christmas Board Book
by Edwards, Nicola
BOOKS

A Magical Christmas: A Padded Christmas Story Book
by Freedman, Claire
BOOKS

Night Night, Sleepy Elves: A Lift-the-Flap Bedtime Christmas Book
by Wood, Selina
BOOKS

Love Is My Favorite Color
by Laden, Nina
BOOKS

Harriet’s Reflections
by Kadi, Marion
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?