Scott Stuart, How to be a Real Man, Hardie Grant Children’s Publishers, January 2021, 24 pp., RRP $19.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781760507848
In How to be a Real Man, Scott Stuart turns the old-world conservative view of masculinity upside down using rhyme and vibrant engaging illustrations. The story starts with wild men—Vikings, Pirates, the Spartans of Ancient Greece—to remind us of the fearful fighting men from the past; men who were always strong and powerful but not exactly a man you may wish to befriend or spend time with. So, it’s time for a change.
Instead of fighting with might, Stuart suggests that fighting for ‘what is right’ is what is required of a real man. Strength can be helping those in need and being brave enough to show one’s true feelings. It’s a choice.
The visual impact of How to be a Real Man is very appealing. The illustrations are delightful; each page is creatively rendered using the text as an illustrative medium as well as the fabulous representation of men in all shapes and sizes. Humour is always present so it’s a great look-at book conversation starter and a lively book to read with young ones.
How to be a Real Man is a very blokey book. There’s not a female to be seen and, while I understand Stuart’s focus is on a more informed version of manhood for future generations, a little more gender interaction would have been a positive addition. After all, girls need to understand what a Real Man is as much as the boys, and to be aware of the expectations placed on (some) boys as they are growing up. Yes, it’s about choice for everyone.
Reviewed by Jennifer Mors
