Boying Up by Mayim Bialik

Short Summary

Boying Up: How to Be Brave, Bold and Brilliant by Mayim Bialik is a wordy, science-leaning guide to growing up for boys. Written by an actor, parent, and neuroscientist, this book focuses on puberty, brain development, emotions, attraction, and identity, with a strong educational tone rather than a traditional sex-ed approach.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 13 to 16 years.

Topics Discussed

Growing Up

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What this book is about

  • Boying Up explains puberty through a science-based lens, covering body changes, hormones, and brain development.
  • It explores attraction and relationships, focusing on opposite-sex relationships and traditional dating pathways.
  • Mental health and emotional wellbeing are discussed, including stress, fitting in, and navigating locker-room culture.
  • The book addresses social pressures on boys and expectations around masculinity.
  • There is a brief mention of screen time and sexting, but no meaningful discussion of pornography or online risks.
  • Sexual health topics such as STIs, contraception, masturbation, and sexual diversity are not covered in depth.
  • A distinctive section towards the end focuses on why boys matter, their role in society, and the potential to become caring partners and fathers.
  • The tone is informative and reflective, leaning more toward personal development than practical sex education.
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I hope you find this book review helpful!

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❤️ Cath

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