Dickens & Rumi
Cover of BOYS WILL BE HUMAN

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BOYS WILL BE HUMAN

Justin Baldoni

The author of "Man Enough" has adjusted his straight talk about redefining masculinity for boys. (Ages 11 to 17)

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes1/5
  • LGBTQIA characters1/5
  • Romance1/5

Strongest positives

  • Kindness & empathy5/5
  • Positive messages5/5
  • Courage & resilience4/5

What’s in it?

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Uses very mild, conversational language.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

The book appears to support inclusion and respect for diverse identities, but LGBTQIA people or relationships are not a central focus.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Discusses healthy relationships and crushes in a casual, age-appropriate manner.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

The content is not scary.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Includes respectful discussions about boundaries and body image.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

There is no depicted violence.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes the courage required to be vulnerable and honest.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages creative thinking about personal identity and life choices.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages broad inclusivity and respect for different human experiences.

Educational value4/5
Why this rating?

Its main purpose is social-emotional learning about feelings, communication, relationships, identity, and healthy masculinity.

Kindness & empathy5/5
Why this rating?

Empathy and kindness are central tenets of the book.

Positive messages5/5
Why this rating?

The core message promotes emotional health, kindness, and personal integrity.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The author serves as a positive, vulnerable role model for young boys.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Where did a character show kindness or empathy, and what changed because of it?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in BOYS WILL BE HUMAN would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in BOYS WILL BE HUMAN, and what caused that change?
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